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Metro State University welcomes visit from National Cyber Director Deputy Director

By Faisal Kaleem
Posted September 25, 2024

A group of people pose for a picture in the New Main Great Hall

 

On September 24, Metro State University had the honor of welcoming Dr. Harry Wingo, Deputy Director of the Office of the National Cyber Director, The White House, and his team, to our campus. It was a fantastic opportunity for our students, faculty, and community to engage with a leading voice in national cybersecurity.

Dr. Wingo met with our talented students involved in the National Security Agency sponsored Cybersecurity Clinic and Competitions, witnessed the innovative work we’re doing in cybersecurity education, and participated in a panel discussion on cyber workforce development. We were joined by Minnesota IT Services (MN.IT) Commissioner Tarek Tomes and other distinguished guests, showcasing the power of collaboration in advancing cybersecurity education.

One of the key highlights of the visit was Dr. Wingo’s recognition of our unique Cybersecurity Clinic model—an excellent collaboration with MN.IT that provides our students with real-world, hands-on experience working alongside with MN.IT employees, while serving our communities. He also toured our soon-to-be-launched Security Operations Center (SOC) in partnership with Neighborhood Development Center (thanks to our Congresswoman Betty McCollum), which will offer invaluable training to students and low cost security monitoring services to K12 schools, underserved counties and cities, and nonprofits.

Dr. Wingo left inspired by the work being done at Metro State, and we are grateful for Dr. Wingo’s support and recognition of our efforts to build a robust and inclusive cyber workforce. His visit underscores the importance of collaborative initiatives in shaping the future of cybersecurity education. We look forward to continuing our work in building a stronger, more resilient and diverse cyber workforce for Minnesota and beyond!

Together, we are making strides toward a safer and more secure digital world!

The White House also put out a press release for this event.