EC-Council's 2024 Academic Awards Showcase Innovative Cybersecurity Programs and Skill Development

Celebrating Cybersecurity Excellence: EC-Council's 2024 Academic Awards

The EC-Council has recently announced the recipients of its 2024 Academic Awards, a prestigious recognition that highlights groundbreaking cybersecurity education programs and essential skill development through engaging Capture-the-Flag (CTF) challenges. With cybersecurity threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, the role of academic institutions in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals is more crucial than ever.

This year, over 2,000 institutions worldwide competed for recognition, showcasing the impressive strides being made to develop a skilled workforce in the realm of cybersecurity. The winners include notable programs from the University of Phoenix, Purdue University Northwest, ECPI University, and Miami Dade College, among others. These programs have successfully equipped students with a diverse set of skills, preparing them for an evolving digital landscape.

Jay Bavisi, Group President of EC-Council, expressed his enthusiasm about the awardees, stating, “We congratulate these remarkable academics who are paving the way in cybersecurity education. Their innovation and dedication are vital to securing the digital landscape of tomorrow.” This acknowledgment underscores the significant contributions these institutions make to address the cybersecurity skills gap in the workforce.

Empowering Future Cyber Professionals

Among the esteemed award recipients, the University of Phoenix was honored with the title of Academic Partner of the Year in the USA. Kathryn Uhles, Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology, reflected on this accolade, emphasizing the institution's commitment to providing adult learners with practical, career-focused education designed to excel in cybersecurity and IT fields.

Additionally, Dr. Ervin Frenzel of the University of North Texas was recognized as the Academic Instructor of the Year in the USA. Dr. Frenzel remarked on the importance of hands-on learning in cybersecurity training, emphasizing that “real technicians need real training.” He praised EC-Council's resources, which provide students the mastery required to navigate complex tasks before entering the professional realm.

The contributions of Dr. Nelly Delessy-Gassant from Miami Dade College and Dr. Elizabeth Rasnick from the University of West Florida were also acknowledged for their dedication to enhancing teaching methodologies, inspiring new graduates to launch successful careers in cybersecurity.

A Vision for Cybersecurity Education

The EC-Council's Academia division takes pride in setting industry standards for cybersecurity education. By offering a variety of certification programs and engaging CTF competitions, EC-Council empowers educational institutions to prepare students with modern skills and in-demand credentials that employers are seeking. Their partnerships, including over 250 National Centers of Academic Excellence in the U.S., further facilitate the deployment of comprehensive certification courses and skills development technologies.

Bavisi reinforced EC-Council's dedication to fostering a global community of cybersecurity professionals, highlighting the importance of educators in nurturing the next generation of tech professionals amidst rising cyber threats. “As cybersecurity threats evolve, institutions must adapt accordingly. EC-Council is committed to aiding educational entities in creating relevant programs that counter the challenges posed by the digital age,” he stated.

Scholarship Initiatives for Accessibility

This year, EC-Council launched a transformative $15 million academic scholarship initiative alongside the Office of the National Cyber Director, aimed at democratizing cybersecurity education. This initiative seeks to equip U.S. citizens with foundational cybersecurity skills, addressing the urgent global skills gap and opening new career pathways for many.

In summary, the 2024 Academic Awards presented by EC-Council serve not only to commend institutions and educators but also to highlight the ongoing commitment to improving cybersecurity education worldwide. This celebration reflects the promise of a more secure digital future, propelled by a highly skilled and trained workforce. As EC-Council continues to empower educators and institutions globally, the impact of their work will be vital to the protection of tomorrow’s digital landscape.

For more information about the 2024 Academic Awards and the full list of winners, click here.

About EC-Council Academia

Founded in 2001, EC-Council is recognized as a leader in cybersecurity education and training. They offer over 200 unique training programs and certifications that prepare students for various cybersecurity roles. Through their Academia partner program, they provide free partnerships to institutions worldwide, fostering ecosystems that support students, faculty, and communities. For comprehensive details, visit www.eccouncil.org/academia.