|
MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State University Cyber Education and Research Center is proud to announce the graduation of the first cohort from the Cybersecurity Analyst certificate program. This initial group included 18 participants, all of whom received their certificates on Aug. 16. The ceremony took place at the Freed Curd Auditorium within the Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology, where family and friends gathered to celebrate their success. Two students from Paris and another from Puryear are among the graduates. The graduating class includes the following individuals: Jamar Blakney of Mayfield, Kentucky; Peter Dover of Almo, Kentucky; Jace Duncan of Symsonia, Kentucky; Tyler Galbraith of Paducah, Kentucky; Dante Gray of Benton, Kentucky; Grayson Hagerman of Madisonville, Kentucky; Charlie Hamlet of Benton, Kentucky; James Harper of Cadiz, Kentucky; Brandi McKinney of Paducah, Kentucky; Michael Mercado of Paris, Tennessee; Benjamin Meter of New Concord, Kentucky; Nathan O’Neill of Murray, Kentucky; James (Matt) Ragsdale of Murray, Kentucky; Jacob Scott of Puryear, Tennessee; William Simmons of Calvert City, Kentucky; Brandon Tapp of Benton, Kentucky; Christopher Turner of La Center, Kentucky; and Brandon Taylor of Paris, Tennessee. The graduating individuals completed a nine-month, 12-credit-hour program. Each participant was provided with job placement and continuing education opportunities to help ensure their future success. Individuals already working in the information technology (IT) and cybersecurity fields had the chance to upskill, creating opportunities for advancement within their current jobs. For many participants, the program offered a pathway into the IT/cybersecurity sector without any prior knowledge, allowing them to secure full-time positions after completing their internships. A program participant, Jamar Blakney, stated, “The word ‘opportunity’ cannot be overstated for everyone involved. I was given the opportunity to try something new and different, as well as a chance to get into a profession that I was unsure how to get into from the beginning.” The program, which is free for eligible participants, offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics such as network configuration, vulnerability assessment and traffic analysis. With a strong emphasis on practical, real-world scenarios, students learn how to effectively identify and mitigate cyber threats, thereby protecting organizations against potential breaches and data loss. The entire curriculum is aligned with industry certifications, enabling students to graduate with multiple recognized credentials. Throughout the certificate program, participants have the opportunity to earn their CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ certifications. In addition to the graduation ceremony held on Aug. 16, the incoming cohort of students had their orientation. The current group of students will attend classes from August to May, followed by an eight-week summer internship starting at the end of May 2026, with the aim of securing a job placement upon completion of the program. The current cohort consists of 24 students who are either entering the IT/cybersecurity field for the first time or seeking to enhance their existing knowledge. This certificate program was funded by a $1.5 million three-year grant from the Employment and Training Administration within the Department of Labor through the Delta Regional Authority. Eligible students who take part in the grant will have free tuition for the 12 credit hours of coursework, a paid internship, a laptop, career coaching, job placement support and real-world experience. The Murray State University Cyber Education and Research Center is currently accepting applicants for the 2026-2027 Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate program. Spaces are limited with only 24 spots available to eligible participants. Individuals interested in the Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate program and grant can reach Cheryl Calvert through email at ccalvert2@murraystate.edu. The Cyber Center and the Cybersecurity and Network Management program are part of the award-winning statewide Program of Distinction at Murray State University. The program provides degree tracks in cybersecurity, wireless communications, and network and systems administration. Cybersecurity and Network Management focuses on cybersecurity and network infrastructure in the rapidly growing field of technology. It is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with a solid foundation in cybersecurity technologies and their application in a business environment. Learn more about Murray State’s Cybersecurity and Network Management program at murraystate.edu/cyber.
Photo: In addition to the graduation ceremony held on Aug. 16, the incoming cohort of students had their orientation. The current group of students will attend classes from August to May, followed by an 8-week summer internship starting at the end of May 2026, with the aim of securing a job placement upon completion of the program. |