StaffIn addition to her work in cybersecurity, Joanne Sexton has taught several computer science and IT courses during her 18 years at Augusta University. She is the founding dean of the new School of Computer and Cyber Sciences and was instrumental in the creation of the Cyber Institute, both of which will be located at the Hull McKnight Georgia Cyber Center, a state-owned center focused on enhancing cybersecurity growth by bringing the public and private sectors together.
1. How have we been able to adapt so quickly to the area’s cyber growth?
We started developing our cybersecurity curriculum several years ago, so some of the things that take more time to establish we really started working on earlier. That’s one of the reasons why we could move as rapidly as we could.
2. In a field where so much is learned on the job, what is the value of a college education?
Here’s the thing about cybersecurity: You have to be open-minded, fluid and a great problem solver because you’re going to be looking at stuff you haven’t seen before. I don’t know where you get that type of education except at a university.
3. How will students benefit from the Hull McKnight Georgia Cyber Center?
When you can have your students participate in real-world activities plus what you’re doing in the classroom, the lights just go on. If I were a student, why wouldn’t I come here?
Read more as we ask Joanne Sexton more Qs.
