How Cedarville University supports Ohio cyber defense efforts
How Cedarville University supports Ohio cyber defense efforts
Publish Date: 2026-06-08 05:04:00
Source Domain: www.lancastereaglegazette.com
Using an unordered list, summarize the following article with between 4 and 8 key points. June 8, 2026, 5:04 a.m. ETStudents and faculty at Cedarville University are stepping up to defend critical infrastructure and digital systems through service in the cyberspace wing of the Ohio Air National Guard.Three students and one faculty member are part of the specialized unit located in Mansfield, which uses cyber capabilities to support modern air power and respond to the evolving landscape of digital warfare, according to a community announcement.The students — David Lamoreaux, a junior computer science and cyber operations major; Bruce Wilson Jr., a sophomore computer science and cyber operations major; and Teja Kumbha, a junior IT management major from Canal Winchester — along with Stephanie Long, assistant professor of cybersecurity, are focused on protecting communication systems and sensitive information in an increasingly digital world.”Cybersecurity touches nearly every part of life, from national defense to business operations, nonprofit organizations and personal data protection,” Long said in the announcement. “Because of this, there is a growing demand for professionals who understand complex systems and can defend them effectively in an increasingly interconnected world.”Cybersecurity is a growing priorityAs digital transformation accelerates worldwide, the demand for cybersecurity expertise continues to grow. While early internet development prioritized functionality and accessibility, today’s global networks require a heightened focus on security, resilience and risk mitigation.”As society becomes more dependent on technology, everything ultimately comes down to protecting information,” Lamoreaux said, according to the announcement. “Anyone with enough time and resources — usually a nation-state — can eventually get to that data. Our role is to make unauthorized access as difficult, time-consuming and costly as possible.”Lamoreaux, who has served in the Ohio Air National Guard since 2020, said the next generation of cybersecurity tools and technologies will be developed by students like him.”By adopting a security-first mindset during development, we can strengthen entire systems and reduce vulnerabilities across industries worldwide,” he said.Cedarville University recognized for cybersecurity effortsCedarville University prepares students to meet industry demand through rigorous academics and hands-on learning. Programs such as the National Cyber League Competition, Collegiate Penetration Testing Competition and Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition provide real-world training in both offensive and defensive cyber strategies.The university is among a select group designated by the National Security Agency for excellence in cybersecurity education. The recognition highlights Cedarville’s focus on equipping students to think like attackers to better defend critical systems, according to the announcement.Service in the Air National Guard, however, extends beyond professional development and requires a significant personal commitment. After completing basic training and technical school, students are expected to serve one weekend each month, complete two weeks of annual training and remain available for possible active-duty deployments lasting four to six months.”These students are choosing to prioritize service to their country ahead of personal convenience,” Long said. “That level of dedication reflects strong character, discipline and a commitment to something greater than themselves.”As several students prepare for basic training, they are stepping into critical roles supporting national security in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
