Virginia Peninsula Community College has been redesignated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This reaffirms the College’s leadership in cybersecurity education and workforce development.
The prestigious five-year designation places VPCC among a select group of colleges and universities nationwide. These institutions meet rigorous NSA standards in cybersecurity curriculum, institutional commitment and workforce development, said Dr. Michael Mann, Cybersecurity program chair at VPCC.
“It’s like a seal of approval—a mark of quality that tells students, employers, and the community our cybersecurity program meets national standards and aligns with workforce needs,” said Mann, an Information Systems Technology professor. “This recognition helps our graduates stand out in a competitive job market and builds strong connections with regional and national employers.”
Noting the College also earned this distinction in 2017, he said it’s a formal acknowledgment that VPCC produces graduates who are qualified and ready to secure the nation’s digital infrastructure.
As a CAE-CD school, he explained, VPCC gives students access to high-profile opportunities, including conferences and the annual Cyber Fusion competition at Lexington’s Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Mann selects five cybersecurity students for the VMI event. They compete in real-time digital defense challenges and network with industry leaders from numerous firms, including Booz Allen Hamilton and CACI.
“It’s one of the most valuable events I’ve seen. It ensures VPCC continues to serve as a trusted leader in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals,” he said.
“Students love it. I love it, too, because it helps me see what these companies are looking for today, which is part of my normal job … to stay (up to date) with what’s happening in the industry. So, that’s one of the major benefits, getting invited every year,” he added.
Citing another benefit, Mann said this “seal of quality” ensures VPCC also provides access to numerous timely resources and educational tools that complement what students learn in class, keeping them informed on the latest trends in cybersecurity.
He said the benefits extend beyond the classroom. The College is part of a national register and on a U.S. map, highlighting designated schools in the CAE community.
“Earning a place on this national register reinforces the credibility of our program,” said Mann, adding it expands professional development opportunities for faculty while also strengthening ties to federal agencies and creating greater access to grant funding and industry partnerships.
He thanked College leaders, students, faculty, and staff for their support during the demanding application process, which took about a year. For Mann, it involved completing 10 comprehensive components, including verifying institutional accreditation, submitting proof of student learning (completed assignments and projects) across multiple academic disciplines, providing evidence of real-world integration such as Cyber Saturdays (an on-campus event for community youth), and more.
Mann said a ceremony celebrating CAE-CD schools is expected to take place before the end of the year. He’s awaiting details about the event, which in the past has been presented by the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE).
“This is a huge win for our students, our faculty, and our region,” said Mann.