鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock is home to a diverse student body and respected faculty transforming academic endeavors into practical support and solutions for Arkansans. Establishing a full-service veterans legal clinic within the Bowen School of Law and bolstering nanotech research with a wide range of real-world applications will benefit veterans and accelerate innovative breakthroughs at the intersection of science and medicine,鈥� said U.S. Senator John Boozman, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. 鈥淚鈥檓 pleased to have championed these investments and look forward to the exciting impact they will have on our state and beyond in the years to come.鈥�

Chancellor Christina Drale added that these investments further position the university to serve Arkansas through impactful research and programs.

鈥淭his level of federal investment affirms the value and impact of the work happening at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� said Chancellor Christina Drale. 鈥淔rom supporting Arkansas veterans to advancing research in nanotechnology, cybersecurity, and data analytics, these appropriations strengthen our ability to serve the state and deliver research that makes a measurable difference for our communities and our country.

The federal funding package includes two direct allocations secured by Boozman for the veterans legal clinic and nanotechnology research equipment, in addition to the other investments he and the Arkansas congressional delegation supported for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock programs:

• $750,000 to support the Veterans Legal Services Clinic at the William H. Bowen School of Law
• $6 million for nanotechnology initiatives, including:
  • $3 million to enhance nanotechnology research capacity through the purchase of highly specialized state-of-the-art equipment
  • $3 million specifically for nanomaterials for bone regeneration research
• $5 million to develop a cyber-resilient computing platform in partnership with Montana State University
• $1 million to support COSMOS (social networks analysis) research

Veterans Legal Services Clinic

The $750,000 appropriation will enhance the Bowen School of Law鈥檚 Veterans Legal Services Clinic, which provides free legal assistance to Arkansas veterans while giving law students hands-on experience. To date the clinic has supported Veterans in two thirds of Arkansas counties and has secured more than $500k in benefits for veterans. With the additional funding, the clinic hopes to secure additional support to serve all Arkansas counties.  

鈥淭his funding strengthens our ability to stand alongside Arkansas veterans and ensure they have access to the legal services they deserve,鈥� said Dean Colin Crawford of the Bowen School of Law. 鈥淚t also gives our students meaningful, real-world experience advocating for those who have served our country.鈥�

Analytical and Nanotechnology Research Expansion

The $6 million in nanotechnology funding will significantly expand 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 research capacity. The $3 million equipment investment will enhance nanotechnology research through the acquisition of advanced instrumentation, positioning the university for continued growth in high-impact materials science. The instrumentation will serve both the academic as well as the industrial partners and provide educational opportunities for a variety of students and users. An additional $3 million will support research focused specifically on nanomaterials for bone regeneration, with potential applications for injured service members and others requiring regenerative medical treatments.

鈥淭hese investments strengthen the university鈥檚 ability to conduct advanced characterization and research at a higher level both academically and industrially,鈥� said Dr. Alex Biris, Chief Scientist at the Center for Integrative Nanotechnology Sciences. 鈥淭he funding expands our research capacity, and the support for the development of technologies focused on advanced bone and tissue regeneration, allowing us to pursue innovative solutions with significant implications for both national defense and medical advancement.鈥�  

Cyber-Resilient Space Computing Platform

The $5 million cyber-resilient computing platform project, a joint effort between 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock and Montana State University, will focus on strengthening satellite systems against emerging cyber threats and enhancing national security capabilities in space.

鈥淭his project advances our ability to build AI models that protect mission-critical systems operating in increasingly complex and contested cyber environments in space,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff. 鈥淚t reflects 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 growing leadership in applied cybersecurity research that directly supports national defense and workforce needs.鈥�

COSMOS: Social Networks Analysis

The $1 million investment in COSMOS (social networks analysis) will expand research capabilities in data analytics and national security applications.

鈥淪ocial network analysis plays a critical role in understanding complex digital ecosystems and cognitive security challenges,鈥� said Dr. Nitin Agarwal, director of COSMOS Research Center at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淭his funding allows us to deepen our research impact while preparing students to lead in high-demand intelligence and analytics fields.鈥�

Together, these investments accelerate 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 momentum as a leading public research university and a driver of innovation in Arkansas. From supporting veterans in Arkansas courtrooms to advancing technologies that strengthen national security, the university continues to translate research excellence into tangible benefits for the state and the nation.

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The CORE Center was established through a $1 million grant from Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, whose support has enabled 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to expand hands-on, high-impact learning opportunities in one of the nation鈥檚 fastest-growing and most critical fields.

鈥淐ybersecurity is one of the most pressing challenges facing industries today, and it continues to grow more complex every day,鈥� said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. 鈥淎t 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, we take seriously our responsibility to prepare students with the skills, training, and experience they need to make meaningful contributions in the workforce from day one. This investment allows us to expand access to high-quality cybersecurity education and better serve the needs of Arkansas.鈥�

The CORE Center enhances 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 already well-regarded cybersecurity programs by providing advanced lab space, immersive training environments, and new opportunities for collaboration with government, military, and industry partners. The center is designed to support workforce-aligned education across cybersecurity, digital forensics, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence.

Dr. Philip Huff, director of the CORE Center and associate professor of computer science, said the facility significantly expands the university鈥檚 ability to deliver real-world training aligned with current workforce demands.

鈥淥ur students train in real-world scenarios using the same tools and techniques they鈥檒l encounter in the field,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淭hat level of preparation doesn鈥檛 happen by accident. It takes intentional vision, resources, and strong partnerships. The CORE Center allows us to deepen those experiences and strengthen the pipeline of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals Arkansas needs.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity programs emphasize both academic rigor and workforce relevance, with curriculum shaped in collaboration with public-sector and private-sector partners. Students develop not only technical expertise, but also critical skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, capabilities essential in today鈥檚 rapidly evolving digital landscape.

While the CORE Center will help meet immediate workforce needs, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin emphasized its potential to extend far beyond campus and state lines.

He noted the importance of international cybersecurity and the continued expansion of cybersecurity programs positions 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to become a global leader in the field.

鈥淭his is just the beginning,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think we can fully envision what could come out of this if we lean in and understand the global reach of what鈥檚 about to be done here.鈥�

The CORE Center will support students at multiple stages of their academic and professional journeys, including Courtney Ingram, a recent graduate of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 undergraduate cybersecurity program and a current master鈥檚 student.

Ingram returned to college as an adult learner and was among the first graduates of the university鈥檚 undergraduate cybersecurity program. Just weeks before graduation, she began working as an information security analyst associate with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, where she now monitors threats and supports secure operations.

鈥淩eturning to school later in life wasn鈥檛 always easy, but it was one of the best decisions I鈥檝e made,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淭he support I received here helped me build confidence and find a career that truly fits. Investments like this create real opportunities for students who are ready to grow, ready to work, and ready to contribute.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock currently offers undergraduate certificates and a bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, and the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees has approved a new master鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, further expanding pathways for students to advance their education in this high-demand field.

Following the dedication ceremony, guests toured the CORE Center, met with faculty and students, and explored how the facility supports hands-on learning, applied research, and workforce preparation in cybersecurity and related disciplines.

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The program placed three local educators, Matthew Possehl, Clint Holderby, and Taylor Kinsey, at Bastazo this summer, providing them with hands-on industry experience in cybersecurity, programming, and computer science.

The STRIVE program helps Arkansas STEM teachers gain real-world experience they can integrate into their classrooms to better prepare students for high-demand careers. The initiative aims to increase student awareness of the many STEM career paths available, strengthen their ability to succeed in those roles, promote evidence-based instructional practices, and expand teachers鈥� professional networks.

鈥淧artnering with programs like STRIVE allows us to connect with educators who are shaping the next generation of talent,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff, chief scientist and co-founder of Bastazo as well as an associate professor of cybersecurity at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淏y giving teachers a firsthand look at how cybersecurity is evolving, we can help them bring relevant, cutting-edge knowledge back to their students.鈥�

As part of STRIVE, these inquiring educators had the opportunity to spend four weeks of their summer embedded in a cutting-edge company like Bastazo, which offered the teachers a real-world view into how STEM concepts are applied across disciplines. They鈥檒l bring what they learned back to the classroom in the form of innovative lessons meant to engage students in STEM learning. 

鈥淏y spending time in a high-tech environment like Bastazo, our teachers gained firsthand experience with how the STEM skills they teach are shaping critical sectors of our economy,鈥� said Dr. Mark Baillie,  director of the STRIVE program at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淎 large majority of our STEM teachers have never been in the workforce outside of academia, yet they are supposed to be preparing students for jobs they haven鈥檛 seen or experienced themselves. These internships give teachers the tools to bring relevance and excitement back to their classrooms, helping students understand not just what they鈥檙e learning, but why it matters. And all this could one day lead to a meaningful career right here in Arkansas.鈥�

This summer, 17 Arkansas teachers were placed at 12 partner sites, including Bastazo, through the STRIVE program. Collectively, these educators are expected to teach nearly 2,400 students across the state this year, equipping them with high-impact STEM lessons designed to boost their readiness for and success in STEM-related careers.

鈥淥ur teachers are at the forefront of preparing students for the future, and experiences like STRIVE give them valuable industry insight they can immediately bring back to the classroom,鈥� said Dr. Debbie Jones, superintendent of Bentonville Schools. 鈥淏y working alongside companies like Bastazo, our educators gain a deeper understanding of emerging technologies, which directly benefits our students and their readiness for tomorrow鈥檚 careers.鈥�

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The event, titled 鈥淎I-Assisted Cybersecurity Clinic Operations,鈥� will take place from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Attendees can register at .

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the use of artificial intelligence is becoming essential in tracking digital assets, identifying vulnerabilities, and managing threats. In this session, Huff will discuss how AI tools are actively used at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to support analysts and student researchers in strengthening cyber defense strategies. He will also preview new prototypes under development for the university鈥檚 cybersecurity clinics, which aim to transform raw threat data into clear, actionable intelligence for Arkansas organizations.

鈥淭his is a pivotal time for cybersecurity innovation,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e working with students and industry to develop tools that don鈥檛 just detect threats but help organizations understand them and respond effectively, especially those without deep cybersecurity expertise.鈥�

In addition to his academic leadership, Huff is co-founder and chief scientist of Bastazo, a cybersecurity startup. His talk reflects 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 continued collaboration with the Forge Institute, a nonprofit based in Arkansas that brings together public and private partners to drive cybersecurity innovation and workforce development.

Founded in 2018, the Forge Institute works to keep the U.S. 鈥淔orever One Step Ahead鈥� in cybersecurity and national defense. Its partnership with 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock includes joint research initiatives, workforce training, and support for student engagement in real-world cybersecurity challenges.

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The inaugural class of nine graduates includes Kenneth Barnett, Bryce Ebsen, Isaac Gonzalez, Courtney Ingram, Cameron Jackson, Cameron Johnson, David Leitnaker, Emily McClenahan, and Brandon Orender.

These students represent a diverse range of backgrounds, including traditional students, military veterans, working professionals, and student-athletes, who are all united in their mission to enter a high-demand profession and protect critical systems from cyber threats.

鈥淲atching our first class of cybersecurity graduates walk across that stage is beyond exciting鈥攊t鈥檚 deeply rewarding,鈥� said Rebecca Passmore, an assistant professor of cybersecurity. 鈥淭hey came in as students full of curiosity and potential and are leaving as confident professionals ready to make a difference.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock launched its bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity in 2021 in response to growing national and statewide demand for skilled professionals. Since then, the program has rapidly expanded in scope, student enrollment, and national recognition, recently being named to national lists for both Top Cybersecurity Programs and Most Affordable Bachelor鈥檚 Degrees.

鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly rewarding鈥攍ike reaching the summit after a long climb,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity and director of cybersecurity research. 鈥淲e laid the groundwork for this program about six years ago, and to now see our students stepping into meaningful careers is a moment of real joy and pride.鈥�

The program now includes a growing number of certifications and specialized tracks in areas like digital forensics, software security, and cybersecurity operations. With new graduate programs in artificial intelligence security and cybersecurity operations on the horizon, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is solidifying its role as a statewide leader in cybersecurity education.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a profession for every organization,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淲e鈥檝e barely begun to supply the cybersecurity workforce needed in Arkansas. There are thousands of job openings right now, and we鈥檙e committed to preparing students to fill them.鈥�

The success stories among the first graduates reflect the program鈥檚 accessibility and flexibility. Courtney Ingram, a North Little Rock native, began college in 2004 but paused her education to focus on work and raising a family. After discovering the new degree program through a 2021 newspaper article, she enrolled and completed her degree while working full time. 

鈥淚 never thought I would be in the category of being one of the first to do what I鈥檓 doing,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淭he journey that I took to get here is something I鈥檒l never take for granted. I put myself in a very uncomfortable position for four years, but I made it. This program sharpened me. It made me more organized and gave me something to strive for. I鈥檝e changed since I started. I鈥檝e become more confident, and it鈥檚 helped my mental health. If I can do this, I鈥檓 ready for what鈥檚 next.鈥�

Ingram recently began a new role as an information security analyst associate at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. She was also the winner of the university鈥檚 Spring 2025 Grad Cap Contest. A picture of her grad cap earned more than 1,900 likes on Facebook. 

Cameron Jackson, a student-athlete from Kilgore, Texas, balanced his passion for track and field with rigorous cybersecurity coursework.

鈥淎s I learned more about cybersecurity and how important it is in today鈥檚 world, I knew it was the field I wanted to pursue,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock offered a strong program and the chance to grow in both athletics and academics, so it was the right fit for me. It鈥檚 been a great experience. The program is hands-on and constantly evolving, and I鈥檝e had the chance to work on real world projects that have challenged me and helped me grow.鈥�

He now plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in information science while working in cybersecurity as well as training as a professional athlete.

鈥淚t鈥檚 exciting and humbling to be part of the first graduating class,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e setting the tone for future students and helping build the reputation of the program. It feels like I鈥檓 part of something bigger than just my own education. Long term, I鈥檓 interested in combining my cybersecurity knowledge with legal studies to help organizations stay secure and compliant. I鈥檓 excited for what comes next and to represent 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock wherever I go.鈥�

Emily McClenahan, a former chef and sales professional from Malvern, saw cybersecurity as a chance to pursue a more intellectually challenging career.

鈥淚鈥檝e always been curious about how things work鈥攅specially in tech鈥攁nd after a decade in the culinary and sales industries, I was ready for a career that would challenge me intellectually and keep me learning,鈥� she said. 鈥淐ybersecurity checked all the boxes, and the program at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock felt like the perfect fit.鈥�

McClenahan returned to school after reading about the new program in an article and graduated this spring with honors.

鈥淢y experience was challenging, rewarding, and hands-on,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檝e learned so much and gained confidence in areas like digital forensics, incident response, and compliance. The faculty support has been outstanding, and I鈥檓 proud to be graduating with honors.

鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly emotional and rewarding,鈥� said Dr. Sandra Leiterman, cybersecurity education research professor. 鈥淲e launched this program during the uncertainty of COVID, when we had just a handful of students. These graduates took a chance on a new program. They believed in us, and we believed in them.鈥�

Graduates are stepping into roles such as security operations center analysts, threat hunters, and incident response specialists across government, healthcare, and private sectors.

鈥淭he stakes are high when it comes to cybersecurity,鈥� Passmore said. 鈥淔rom safeguarding patient records to protecting infrastructure, these students are entering careers that truly matter.鈥�

As cyber threats grow in complexity and frequency, the demand for trained professionals continues to climb.

鈥淭he market is robust and expanding,鈥� Passmore said. 鈥淲e need more students to step into this field prepared to protect what matters most.鈥�

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The 60-year-old Christiansburg, Virginia, resident will soon graduate from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock with a Master of Science in information science, a milestone in a journey marked by resilience, reinvention, and relentless dedication.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 set out to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in information science; it was a journey shaped by unexpected opportunities,鈥� said McMinn, who originally hails from Valdosta, Georgia.

For most of her career, McMinn taught special education and deaf education.

鈥淚 loved both populations deeply,鈥� she said. 

However, in 2019, her resume unexpectedly landed on the desk of a CTE (Career and Technical Education) director in Virginia, and she was later offered a role teaching cybersecurity, despite her lack of formal experience in the field. Initially, she thought it was a mistake. 

鈥淭hough I had IT experience from my own publishing company and some recent certifications, my teaching experience was in Special/Deaf Education,鈥� she said, adding that the CTE director 鈥渁ssured me I was the right person for the job and encouraged me to try. His faith in me became my mantra to pay it forward.鈥�

McMinn stepped into the role, teaching cybersecurity at Christiansburg High School. In 2021, she learned about the National Cybersecurity Teaching Academy (NCTA) -鈥� a graduate certificate program in cybersecurity education for high school teachers, offered virtually through 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, DePaul University, and the University of Louisville. She applied and joined the inaugural class in Summer 2022.

鈥淭oward the end of the program, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock offered us the chance to continue into the master鈥檚 program,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 applied, was accepted, and earned a Master of Science in information science, along with graduate certificates in data science and the NCTA.鈥�

Her path wasn鈥檛 easy. McMinn has juggled three teaching jobs鈥攁t Christiansburg High, Tennessee Online Public School, and Cornerstone Classical Academy鈥攚hile running her own Christian publishing company. She has also cared for her sick husband. After several hospitalizations and a misdiagnosis, he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia – the same disorder affecting actor Bruce Willis.

鈥淭his diagnosis was both a relief and the beginning of a new, challenging journey,鈥� McMinn said. 鈥淎s his sole caregiver, I have had to navigate this while managing four jobs and my master鈥檚 studies.鈥�

Still, she persisted.

鈥淭here were times I considered giving up, but the encouragement from (Director of Cybersecurity Education and Outreach) Sandra Leiterman and (computer science instructor) Gin Jadav, along with the patience and support of my professors, kept me going,鈥� she said. 鈥淭heir support has been invaluable. I have had the most supportive, patient, and understanding professors that I鈥檝e ever encountered.鈥�

Leiterman said McMinn has shown exceptional dedication to her education and to supporting others despite life鈥檚 challenges.

鈥淭hroughout it all, she remained committed not only to her own success but also to mentoring and assisting fellow NCTA students, offering guidance and encouragement when they needed it most,鈥� Leiterman said. 鈥淗er persistence, professionalism, and generosity make her a standout in the program.鈥�

McMinn鈥檚 thesis focused on 鈥淚ncorporation of AI Into the High School Cybersecurity Curriculum,鈥� developing three progressive, semester-long courses and a rationale for integrating artificial intelligence into high school instruction. The project included a detailed instructional design, comprehensive outlines, lesson plans, activities, and assessments.

After graduation, McMinn plans to continue teaching at all three schools, running her business, and caring for her husband. She is even considering applying for another part-time teaching position online.

 鈥淚 strive for my passion for this field to be contagious, and I strive to inspire students, especially those who think they can鈥檛 succeed in IT,鈥� she said. 鈥淲itnessing students who believe they 鈥榗an鈥檛 do IT’ earn certifications and develop new skills is deeply rewarding.鈥�

McMinn is grateful that she鈥檚 been able to face and overcome many challenges and take part in a transformative experience.

“As a non-traditional student 鈥� finishing my master鈥檚 at 60 and as a woman in a male-dominated IT field 鈥� my greatest achievement has been persevering through the challenges,鈥� McMinn said. 鈥淏alancing a full-time job, two part-time jobs, running a business, taking master鈥檚 classes, being a sole caregiver, and managing ADHD and dyslexia, all required immense determination and support from my faith, encouragers, and the opportunities I was given. This experience has been humbling and is a milestone I cherish.”

She said Leiterman, Jadav, and Dr. Phillip Huff (associate professor) have been lifelines throughout her journey. 

鈥淚 deeply admire their knowledge, patience, and passion for the field. Their encouragement has been a guiding light for me.鈥�

For McMinn, teaching cybersecurity is more than a career鈥攊t鈥檚 a calling.

鈥淚 look forward to walking into my classroom every day. I honestly love teaching these high school students in this field, watching their growth and passion get ignited, and seeing them develop their careers in the field after graduation,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t is the filling in a hole that I didn鈥檛 even know that I had.鈥�

The post Resilient and Relentless: 60-Year-Old 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Grad Redefines What鈥檚 Possible appeared first on News.

鈥淲e are committed to leading the charge in cybersecurity education,鈥� said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. 鈥淏y growing the number of teachers with the skills and resources they need to inspire the next generation, we鈥檙e not only addressing a critical workforce gap but also positioning Arkansas as a hub for innovation in cybersecurity. This grant supports a transformative step forward for education and industry alike.鈥�

The grant, funded by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) within the National Security Agency, will enable 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to enhance its groundbreaking efforts in preparing high school teachers to teach cybersecurity.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock will collaborate with academic partners DePaul University and the University of Louisville, as well as Dark Enterprises, a nonprofit advancing cybersecurity education. The grant鈥檚 principal investigators are Dr. Sandra Leiterman, cybersecurity education research professor, and Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity.

鈥淭his funding will allow us to build upon the success of the National Cybersecurity Teaching Academy (NCTA) and help address the nationwide shortage of high school cybersecurity teachers,鈥� Leiterman said. 鈥淲e have 175 scholarships available for teachers for the upcoming summer cohort and an additional 175 for the summer 2026 cohort. This grant enables us to make a meaningful impact by increasing the number of skilled cybersecurity teachers in classrooms in Arkansas and across the country.鈥�

The grant marks the third major award supporting the NCTA, a graduate certificate program that equips high school teachers to teach cybersecurity. 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock was among the first institutions in the nation to offer a graduate certificate in cybersecurity education, which also qualifies teachers to teach concurrent enrollment cybersecurity courses. This provides more opportunities for high school students to earn college credits and shorten their pathway to earning their college degree.

The new funding will also expand the NCTA to five additional institutions: Worcester Polytechnic Institute, University of Arizona, Dakota State University, Sacramento State, and the University of Maryland Global Campus.

For teachers seeking to further their education, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Department of Computer Science and School of Education have developed new pathways. NCTA graduates can pursue a Master of Education at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and a program for pre-service teachers is in development.

鈥淎s the liaison between the computer science and education departments, I am proud to support the creation of a new pathway providing in-service teachers with 18 credit hours in cybersecurity,鈥� said Dr. Lundon Pinneo, assistant professor of education. 鈥淭his initiative empowers teachers to take on leadership roles in their schools while increasing opportunities for high school students to earn concurrent college credit. Additionally, I am collaborating with Drs. Leiterman and Huff to design an early-entry option for pre-service teachers pursuing a master’s degree, further enriching teacher preparation and advancement.鈥�

The grant also provides funding to establish a learning community for NCTA graduates, offering professional development and peer support.

鈥淚 recently met with 40 of our graduates at a K-12 Cybersecurity Conference in San Antonio,鈥� Leiterman said. 鈥淢any of them are the sole cybersecurity teachers in their schools and lack local support networks. This grant allows us to build an alumni community where teachers can connect quarterly, access professional development, and share successful lessons. We want them to become a valuable resource for one another.鈥�

Huff underscored the importance of fostering a collaborative learning environment.

鈥淥ur goal is to create a community of educators who not only feel confident teaching cybersecurity but are also empowered to inspire their students to pursue careers in this critical field,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淏y supporting these teachers, we鈥檙e building the foundation for a stronger and more secure future.鈥�

Arkansas educators like Brad Goodnight are already benefiting from the NCTA program. A computer science teacher at Morrilton High School, Goodnight earned his licensure to teach computer science through the Arkansas Cyber Teaching Academy, an earlier grant-funded initiative tailored for Arkansas teachers. After completing the graduate certificate program in December 2024, Goodnight is eager to begin teaching concurrent enrollment cybersecurity classes.

鈥淚f your school needs to develop a cybersecurity curriculum, the NCTA team will stop at nothing to support teachers and students,鈥� Goodnight said. 鈥淭he classes are challenging, and the instructors are responsive and supportive. Taking concurrent enrollment classes in cybersecurity is a life-changing opportunity for my students. Programs like the NCTA are making a big difference for teachers and students across Arkansas. I trust 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock because they are leading the conversation on cybersecurity education in Arkansas.

Teachers who are interested in learning more about the NCTA can visit this website.

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is among awarded nearly $26 million in training grants in December. These funds were announced by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Arkansas Division of Higher Education Commissioner Ken Warden, and Chief Workforce Officer Mike Rogers as part of the Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development (HIRED) Program. The program, funded by the Workforce Initiative Act of 2015, aims to bolster Arkansas鈥檚 workforce in key industries.

鈥淭here鈥檚 no one-size-fits-all approach to education, and the HIRED Grant Program helps us meet Arkansas students, schools, and businesses where they are,鈥� Gov. Sanders said in a press release. 鈥淭hese grants will help build the workforce of the future and make Arkansas more competitive in industries such as steel manufacturing, aerospace and defense, lithium, and cybersecurity.鈥�

The grant will support several workforce initiatives led by 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity, computer science, and information technology faculty. These include the development of two new certificates of proficiency in artificial intelligence and software engineering, expanding the university鈥檚 range of specialized training options.

Additionally, the funding will enhance the Certificate of Proficiency in Cyber-Informed Engineering by integrating it into the Cyber Learning Network. This consortium of seven University of Arkansas System campuses already offers a Certificate of Proficiency in Cybersecurity Fundamentals. The first course in the Cyber-Informed Engineering program, Industrial System Security, is scheduled for launch in Fall 2025.

鈥淭hese specialization tracks give students a broad range of skills to prepare for the workforce and help them identify career paths,鈥� Dr. Sandra Leiterman, director of cybersecurity education and outreach at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淐ertificates completed in a shorter timeframe allow students to enter the workforce quickly or gain new skills while already working. They also provide opportunities for career advancement and higher pay as students continue earning additional certifications.鈥�

The grant will also enable Virtual Arkansas to adapt 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Cybersecurity 1 course for concurrent enrollment, which will allow qualified high school teachers to teach the course to Arkansas high school students. Teachers who have completed 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 National Cybersecurity Teaching Academy (NCTA) will be eligible to teach these classes, having earned a graduate certificate in cybersecurity education and 18 credit hours in graduate-level education. 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock aims to launch these concurrent enrollment classes by Fall 2025.

鈥淎ll of these programs are designed to make jobs more accessible and to meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals in Arkansas,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淭hese early-college certificate programs help current workers upskill and prepare new workers for the job market. A key benefit is that these certificates are stackable toward a bachelor鈥檚 degree, allowing working adults to pursue education at their own pace while enhancing their career prospects.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock has continued to gain a reputation as a leader in cybersecurity education. Cybersecurity Guide, a cybersecurity education website whose mission is to connect tomorrow鈥檚 cybersecurity workforce with today鈥檚 best educational and professional training options, recently named 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock 13th on the list of and was 24th on the list of . 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is the only university from Arkansas to be named on either list.

Find out more about 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity programs by visiting this website.

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Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity, is one of the 2024 class of five individuals who was inducted into the academy by President David Douglas, an emeritus professor of the Sam W. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas.

“I am deeply honored to be a member of the Arkansas Academy of Computing,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淭his esteemed group celebrates Arkansas’s rich legacy of technological innovation and works diligently to create opportunities for future generations. Their efforts to enhance the quality of life in the Natural State closely align with our mission at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and I am excited to contribute to their impactful work.”

The Arkansas Academy of Computing is a nonprofit organization established in 2006 that is dedicated to advancing computing in Arkansas through recognition of significant contributors to the state’s computing industry, scholarship support for students in Arkansas college computing programs, advocacy for computing and IT education at all levels, promotion of professionalism in the computing field, and collaboration with diverse partners to achieve the academy’s goals.

Huff has a master鈥檚 degree in computer science from James Madison University and a Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Arkansas. Before joining 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, where he also serves as director of cybersecurity research for the Emerging Analytics Center, he has a 15-year history of working in the electric industry managing cybersecurity operations. Huff also co-founded the cybersecurity AI startup, Bastazo, Inc., and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

This recognition highlights Huff’s significant impact on cybersecurity education and research, further solidifying 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock’s reputation as a leader in technology education. Huff has been instrumental in starting 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity certificate and bachelor鈥檚 degree programs. He also helped secure tens of millions of dollars in grants to establish cybersecurity summer camps for junior high and high school students, establish graduate certificate programs for high school teachers to learn how to teach cybersecurity and computer science courses, and to advance innovative solutions to improve the security of our nation鈥檚 critical infrastructure.

Huff will also be interviewed as part of the Arkansas Academy of Computing鈥檚 , which seeks to preserve the stories and artifacts associated with the founding of the computing business in Arkansas.

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With a background in cybersecurity from Arkansas Tech University, Massengale鈥檚 work gained momentum with the release of ChatGPT-3.5, enabling him to develop innovative applications for the Emerging Threat Information Sharing and Analysis Center at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity, Massengale conducted research, supported by a Department of Energy grant, that not only led to a series of research papers but also delivered essential tools now in use by utility companies to strengthen national security.

鈥淢y time as a student at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock has been great,鈥� Massengale said. 鈥淎ll of the classes are research- and project-based. Dr. Huff has been awesome, and I was able to travel with him to explore the Idaho National Labs. Working with the undergraduate students at the Emerging Threat Information Sharing and Analysis Center is very cool. They get to write actual software for programs and see how those programs work in the real world. I would have died for an opportunity like that when I was an undergraduate student.鈥�

Massengale has presented his research at the EAI International Conference on Security and Privacy in Communication Networks, Intelligence Cybersecurity Conference, and the IEEE International Conference on Trust, Privacy, and Security in Intelligent Systems and Applications. In 2023, he received the Best Graduate Research Assistant Award from the Department of Computer Science.

In is dissertation, 鈥淓nhancing Cybersecurity Strategies through Automated Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) Extraction with LLMs, Risk Prioritization, and Privacy-Conscious Information Sharing,鈥� Massengale worked with large language models to create a more streamlined way to extract cyber threat intelligence from companies. This information is used to create profiles for businesses that tell them what types of risk they are at for ransomware attacks and other cybersecurity threats based on CTI, geographic location, and industry sector.

Massengale鈥檚 dissertation also worked to promote the sharing of cyber threat intelligence among companies by creating a privacy filter that alerts companies if they are sharing private information within cyber threat intelligence.

鈥淪ince adversaries tend to target the same type of companies, it鈥檚 useful for similar companies in the same industry to share threat intelligence with each other,鈥� he said. 鈥淒ue to the sensitive nature of cyber threat intelligence, companies could accidentally expose private information to their competitors. This privacy filter will alert companies if they are about to share information that is private or personally identifiable information.鈥�

Massengale was inspired to attend 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock after his father Rick Massengale, Sr., who is now president of North Arkansas Community College, also earned a Ph.D. in information technology from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. While Massengale said he is interested in teaching college in the future, he doesn鈥檛 think following in his father鈥檚 footsteps to become a college president is on the table. Among other family milestones, Massengale also welcomed his first child, a baby boy named Copeland, to his family six months ago.

As a graduate student, Massengale also worked part-time at Bastazo, an AI cybersecurity startup company created by Huff and three professors at the University of Arkansas. After successfully defending his dissertation on Oct. 31, Massengale started a full-time job as a software developer at Bastazo.

His advice for students to be successful is to: 鈥淐onnect with other students and find a community. Connect with professors because they always know what is going on. Don鈥檛 take shortcuts, and don鈥檛 give up.鈥�

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