June 29, 2023
Tallahassee Community College has been recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).
The CAE-CD program is a joint effort by the NSA and DHS to reduce vulnerability in our national information infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense and producing professionals with cyber defense expertise.
To earn this designation, educational institutions must meet rigorous criteria, including a curriculum that maps to a set of nationally recognized cyber defense knowledge units, faculty involvement in cyber defense research and community outreach, active participation of students in cyber-related activities, and strategic plans to continually improve their cyber defense education program.
The designation is considered a mark of excellence in the field of cybersecurity and positions the institution as a leader in the field. For current and prospective students, this designation offers access to scholarships and grants, increased visibility to employers, and an assurance of receiving a quality education in the cybersecurity field. The newly acquired CAE-CD status also positions the College to become a hub for cybersecurity education in the region.
"This is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our deans, professors, administrators, and of course, our talented students,” said Associate Professor Carlos Torres. “Our goal was not only to fulfill the CAE-CD criteria but to build a cybersecurity program that prepares our students to meet the challenges of the digital age head-on."
Administration and faculty worked together to ensure the College's curriculum, resources, and educational opportunities met the high standards set by the CAE-CD program. This accomplishment reflects the dedication and excellence of the entire TCC community in supporting cybersecurity education and research.
As the importance of cybersecurity grows in our increasingly digital world, TCC's recognition as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense solidifies its position at the forefront of this critical field. The College stands ready to educate the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, ensuring a safer future for all.