EMCC Designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education

National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education
April 09, 2019

Designation lasts through the 2024 academic year

The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have redesignated Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE). EMCC was first designated a CAE institution in 2014. The designation is active for five years.

“Your ability to meet the increasing demands of the program criteria will serve the nation well in contributing to the protection of the National Information Infrastructure,” Karen Leuschner, National CAE Program Manager, NSA, said in a notification letter to the college. “The National Cyber Strategy, September 2018, addresses the critical shortage of professionals with cybersecurity skills and highlights the importance of higher education as a solution to defending America’s cyberspace.”

To become a CAE-designated school, the college had to go through a rigorous vetting process by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. Not only was EMCC’s cyber curriculum scrutinized, but so too was its approach to cybersecurity; the broad installation of cybersecurity to multiple facets of EMCC, such as academic programs and information technology policies; faculty and staff development; and outreach into the community.

“EMCC is thrilled at the accomplishment of securing the redesignation as a Center for Academic Excellence. It speaks to the quality, rigor, and success of our program,” said Paula Livingston, M.Ed., Dean of Instruction and Occupational Education. “Additionally, it also recognizes the commitment and dedication of our faculty as they prepare our students to perform at a high level once they enter the workforce. This is a key and crucial component for the college as our faculty continue to pursue additional opportunities and experiences for students to ensure that their holistic career readiness is paramount.”

EMCC will receive the designation Nov. 20 at the 2019 NICE Conference & Expo at the Sheraton Grand Phoenix.