Cadets attend NATO Cyber Conference in Estonia
Article By: Clark Leonard
Two University of North Georgia (UNG) cadets, a UNG faculty member and a Spelman College cadet traveled to the NATO Cyber Conference (CYCON), held May 28-31 in Estonia.
Ayomide Adekola, a sophomore from Loganville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in computer science, and Tomas King, a junior from Acworth, Georgia, pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, were the UNG cadets at CYCON with Dr. Tamirat Abegaz, UNG assistant professor of computer science. Spelman cadet Myranda Duhart, a senior from Toledo, Ohio, pursuing a degree in international studies, joined the UNG cadets on the trip as part of an expanded Olmsted Foundation grant through which UNG partners with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) Spelman, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University for overseas trips.
Presentations covered a broader perspective on cybersecurity from political leaders to military, industry and academic experts.
King hopes to commission in the Army National Guard cyber branch.
"I believe that this conference is probably the best culturally broadening experience any cadet or aspiring information security specialist can take to be exposed the realm of cybersecurity and see the perspectives of our NATO allies," King said.
Payne named director of cyber institute
Dr. Bryson Payne has been named the director of the UNG Institute for Cyber Operations, and Caitlin Conneely serves as deputy director for operations and outreach.