Explain a little bit about your role and the work you’re doing with the Friday Institute.
I work as a cybersecurity analyst with the Friday Institute, where my focus is on supporting cybersecurity education and awareness efforts across K–12 systems in North Carolina. A big part of my role involves helping schools understand cyber risks, strengthen their security practices and build capacity to protect sensitive data. This includes supporting initiatives like security awareness and skills training for students, educators, administrators and even parents.
How long have you been a part of FI / What brought you to the Friday Institute at NC State?
I’ve been with the Friday Institute for a period of time where I was drawn to the opportunity to combine cybersecurity with education and public service. I was especially interested in applying my cybersecurity background in a way that directly supports schools and communities across North Carolina.
What strategies do you use to foster student-centered research in your work?
A key strategy is making cybersecurity concepts accessible and relevant to students by focusing on real-world applications and hands-on learning. We aim to build resources that allow students and educators to actively engage with cybersecurity topics rather than just learning about them in theory.
What projects are you excited about?
I’m particularly excited about the cybersecurity awareness and skills training initiatives. These programs are being applied across different counties in North Carolina and allow local stakeholders to adapt the resources to best fit their needs. This flexibility helps expand impact while still meeting community-specific challenges.
What are the biggest challenges currently facing educators in North Carolina, and how is the Friday Institute addressing them?
One major challenge is the increasing cyber risk in K–12 schools, especially with federal funding cuts limiting resources. Schools are often targeted for sensitive personal data such as addresses, social security numbers and phone numbers but may not always have the capacity or infrastructure to fully prevent these threats. The Friday Institute is addressing this by providing cybersecurity training and resources to strengthen awareness and preparedness at all levels of the education system, from superintendents to teachers to parents.
What do you LOVE about working at the Friday Institute?
I really value the opportunity to make a direct impact on schools and communities. Being able to take cybersecurity knowledge and turn it into something practical that helps protect students and educators is what I enjoy most.
What do you believe are the most critical skills students need for the future?
Critical thinking, digital literacy and basic cybersecurity awareness are essential. Students need to understand how to navigate technology safely, evaluate risks and protect their personal information in an increasingly digital world.
What is something people may be surprised about your role?
People are often surprised by how much of the role is focused on education and outreach rather than just technical cybersecurity work. A large part of what we do is training, communication and making cybersecurity understandable for non-technical audiences.
What is a cause you are particularly passionate about? I’m passionate about strengthening cybersecurity awareness in education systems and ensuring that schools have the tools and knowledge they need to protect student data and maintain safe digital environments.
