Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through the National Security Agency (NSA).  The Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense designation is awarded to regionally accredited U.S. institutions of higher education that meet rigorous requirements in their commitment to producing cybersecurity professionals who will reduce vulnerabilities in our national infrastructure. MGCCC is the only community college in the state with this designation, and it is only one of two post-secondary institutions in Mississippi with the designation.

“This designation is an outstanding opportunity for us to put Mississippi at the forefront of cybersecurity in the nation and the world,” said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC president. “Our vital role is preparing students and our military to meet the challenges in the ever-changing cyber domain to bring security and stability that is much needed in today’s world.”

As a member of the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Community of Practice – Cyber Defense (CoP-CD), the college will receive resources to aid in student training in the Cybersecurity Technology program at the college’s Harrison County Campus. MGCCC will be recognized and presented a certificate at the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Executive Leadership Forum at a date to be determined.