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Emporia State University Makes Significant Investment in Cybersecurity Education and Community Outreach

by Gwendolynne Larson

Emporia, KS (10/21/2024) — In response to the growing cyber threats in the United States, Emporia State University is taking significant steps to enhance cybersecurity both academically and within the community. ESU's comprehensive approach includes academic programs and community outreach initiatives aimed at fostering awareness and preparing future professionals for the rapidly expanding field of cybersecurity.

"At ESU we're investing in faculty to elevate the computer science and information systems programs" said Leticia Rust, senior director of Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center or CyROC, e-Ventures and Internships in ESU's School of Business and Technology. "Students who major in these programs can choose from three concentrations: cybersecurity, data science and application development."

According to Statista.com, 2023 saw alarming statistics in the U.S. related to cybercrime:

  • 880,000 complaints of internet crime
  • 299,000 victims of phishing schemes
  • 21,500 victims of business email compromises
  • $12.5 billion in losses from cybercrime

Considering these challenges, and with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 33% increase in information security jobs between 2023 and 2033, ESU is committed to equipping students and the community with the necessary skills and knowledge to combat cyber threats.

To celebrate Cybersecurity Awareness Month, CyROC hosted the second annual CyberCON, bringing over 200 high school students to campus to learn about cybersecurity. Rust also presented on cybersecurity to various community groups, including schools, churches, and civic organizations. Presentation requests can be sent to cyroc@emporia.edu.

"We are so excited to be able to provide these events and information to the community," added Rust. "Technology is constantly evolving as well as cybersecurity threats; the more we can help our community to be diligent, the safer we will be."

Upcoming Cybersecurity Event:

ESU's CyROC, is at the forefront of these efforts, offering numerous opportunities for the community to learn about safe online practices. Key initiatives include:

Women in Technology Conference: On Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Sauder Alumni Center, ESU will host the Women in Technology conference. The event will feature presentations from leading women in technology:Alexandra Ewy, Senior Software Developer III, Blue Cross Blue Shield of KansasCaroline Ruden, Security Operations Center Analyst Team Lead, Ennovar, Wichita State UniversityAngela Stevens, Security Operations Manager, Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.Wendy Wheat, Senior Director of Systems Architecture, T-Mobile

  • Alexandra Ewy, Senior Software Developer III, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas
  • Caroline Ruden, Security Operations Center Analyst Team Lead, Ennovar, Wichita State University
  • Angela Stevens, Security Operations Manager, Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.
  • Wendy Wheat, Senior Director of Systems Architecture, T-Mobile

Following the presentations, a panel discussion and networking opportunities with area business representatives will be available. The event is free, but advance registration is required through Oct. 22. Register online here.

For more information on ESU's academic programs, visit Emporia State University School of Business and Technology.

About Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.

As the sole public university in Kansas to be recognized as a College of Distinction for eight consecutive years, ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.

For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.

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