CISO Role at Morgan State University
CISO Role at Morgan State University
It is a tremendous privilege to join an institution as vibrant, mission-focused, and historically significant as Morgan State. I look forward to working within a community that is not only Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University but also a leader among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Morgan State’s commitment to leadership, innovation, and preparing diverse, high-quality graduates to lead the world is a mission I am eager to support.
The Morgan State University Mission: Enabling Excellence
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research institution (R2 – high research activity) and is on the path to achieving R1 status, a testament to its drive for research excellence and scholarly innovation. The university offers a comprehensive range of over 150 academic programs, from baccalaureate to doctorate degrees, serving a multiethnic, multiracial, and multinational student body.
The university’s mission to address the needs and challenges of the modern urban environment, alongside its annual $1 billion economic impact in Maryland, underscores its role as a vital anchor institution. Cybersecurity Assurance and Policy (CAP) is already a key research area at MSU, making this CISO role critical for protecting the infrastructure that supports ground-breaking work, such as research in:
- Cybersecurity (through the CAP Center)
- Engineering
- Urban Health Disparities
- Equitable Artificial Intelligence
A New Vision for Security: Partner, Not Barrier
My priority is clear: to build a robust security program that acts as a true partner in Morgan State’s mission of teaching, learning, and research—not a barrier.
In today’s complex digital world, a proactive and resilient security posture is non-negotiable, especially within the dynamic environment of a major university. Our focus will be on establishing a rock-solid, resilient digital environment—one that ensures our students can learn, our researchers can innovate, and the entire university can thrive without interruption from cyber threats.
This effort requires a holistic approach, encompassing everything from advanced threat detection to campus-wide security awareness training.
Gratitude and Collaboration
I extend my sincere gratitude to President David K. Wilson, Chief of Staff Don-Terry Veal, CIO Timothy C. Summers, Ph.D., CISSP, CFO David LaChina, and the entire executive leadership team for this incredible opportunity and their visible, shared commitment to resilience and digital transformation. Their support is fundamental to creating a culture where security is ingrained in every operation.
I am ready to get to work and collaborate with students, faculty, staff, and leadership across campus. Making cybersecurity an enabler of academic success and operational efficiency is a collective effort.
Let’s build a future of digital trust, together!
Morgan State University
Morgan State University is a public institution located in Baltimore, Maryland, with a rich history dating back to 1867. It was founded as the Centenary Biblical Institute and later renamed Morgan College in 1890.
The university became a university in 1975 and is known for its commitment to education and public service. Morgan State offers a wide range of academic programs, including professional degrees in engineering, business, architecture, and teacher education, as well as doctoral programs in urban educational leadership, history, mathematics education, and science education.
The university is also recognized for its strong liberal arts and sciences program, particularly in urban studies. With a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 9,027 students, Morgan State provides a supportive and inclusive environment for its students.
Commencement
Mark your calendars! Our Fall Commencement exercises will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 10a.m. in the Hill Field House. Stay informed and review all key graduation-day information.
View Commencement Details
Are you ready to embark on a journey of knowledge,
growth and endless possibilities?
Look no further than Morgan State University, your path to receiving a world-class education and a brighter future.
In preparation for the workforce demands of today and the careers of tomorrow, Morgan offers more than 150 academic degree programs for traditional and nontraditional students
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