Cedarville University has been awarded a grant from the National Security Agency (NSA) to host the GenCybercybersecuritycampthis summer, June 23-27. Designed for rising high school seniors, thecampaims to ignite and sustain interest in cybersecurity, a field critical to national security and economic stability. Applications are open until March 1.

TheGenCyberprogram, co-sponsored by the NSA and the National Science Foundation (NSF), introduces students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through hands-on exercises, simulations, and expert instruction. Cedarville’s cybersecurity program, accredited by ABET and housed within the School of Engineering and Computer Science, provides students with an academically rigorous education in a Christ-centered environment.

“We are honored to host theGenCybercampalongside the NSA,"said Dr. Seth Hamman, director of the Center for the Advancement of Cybersecurity and associate professor ofcyberoperations and computer science. “The NSA’sGenCyberprogram is highly regarded, and the selection process is competitive.”

Thecampwill offer 30 students a fully funded opportunity to explore cybersecurity through interactive labs and real-world applications. Participants will also visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force, where they will engage with local cybersecurity professionals. Sessions will highlight the diverse career opportunities within the field, the importance of cybersecurity in protecting national infrastructure, and essential online safety practices.

“Cyberoperations today is more diverse than people think," Hamman said. “Cybersecurity has many moving parts, and we want to show campers how they can use their unique skills and passions to make an impact.”

The U.S. currently faces a cybersecurity workforce shortage of over 3.4 million professionals, according to the International Information System Security Certification Consortium. Through initiatives likeGenCyber, the NSA and NSF seek to inspire the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. Hosting aGenCybercampaligns with Cedarville’s mission to advance cybersecurity for the benefit of society.

For more information about Cedarville University and its cybersecurity program, visitcedarville.edu.