NRV Cybersecurity Initiatives Featured in Virginia Economic Review

New River Valley, VA – Cybersecurity education initiatives from two of the New River Valley’s higher education institutions were featured in an article in the Q3 2021 issue of the Virginia Economic Review. The article, titled “Bridging Cybersecurity Gaps”, detailed unique cybersecurity initiatives from universities across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Programs and research projects from Radford University and Virginia Tech were both included in the article.

The article highlighted Radford University’s transdisciplinary approach to cybersecurity education. The university’s Center for Information Security (CIS), led by Director Prem Uppuluri, “provid[es] faculty with tools and skillsets necessary to teach cybersecurity through a broader perspective.” Beyond the CIS, other university faculty are focusing on developing curriculum to help K-12 teachers learn about cybersecurity and doing research on “securing IoT [Internet of Things] devices”.

Virginia Tech’s cybersecurity initiatives featured in the article included the new Tech4Humanity Lab. This lab, run by Professor Eric Jardine, is “examining the effects of media coverage around drug market closures on the ensuing level of dark web searches for drug-related activity.” In addition, the article highlighted a project led by Professor Ali Mehrizi-Sani to “support power grid operators’ shift to 5G communications”.

Read the full article from the Virginia Economic Review and learn about Radford University and Virginia Tech’s cybersecurity initiatives in more detail here .

Learn more about higher education in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Explore the tech sector in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.