Investing in the Cybersecurity Workforce of the Future

Hardly a day goes by without media or companies reporting on a new cyberattack. Whether it is spyware, malware, or stolen data, information and privacy is constantly at risk. Now more than ever, understanding and preventing hackers and cyberthieves from infiltrating computers and connected technology is critical. As a result, cybersecurity employees are in high demand.

With the help of a $4 million investment from State Farm^®, Illinois State University launched a cybersecurity major and is preparing students for this fast growing career field.

This charitable grant helped establish the Cybersecurity Center on campus, providing laboratory workspace and student collaboration areas for students in the School of Information Technology. The investment also created an Endowed Chair of Cybersecurity position. The important leadership position helps with recruiting and retaining the highest quality faculty for the department.

Earlier this month, ISU President Larry Dietz announced the selection of Dr. Shaoen Wu as the inaugural State Farm Endowed Chair of Cybersecurity in the School of Information Technology.

“Illinois State’s cybersecurity program is a true point of pride,” said President Larry Dietz. “The State Farm Endowed Chair position enables Illinois State to establish a reputation of strength and perpetuity in an increasingly vital field.”

~ Read the full story from ISU.