Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) face growing pressure to develop robust cybersecurity programs despite faculty resources, training opportunities, and funding limitations. This abstract proposes the creation of a collaborative faculty network specifically designed to support cybersecurity educators at HBCUs. The network would be a centralized platform for faculty to access and exchange curated teaching materials, sample syllabi, certification study guides, and hands-on lab resources. It would also foster peer mentorship and connect faculty with cybersecurity professionals and organizations to help guide curriculum development and industry-aligned training. In addition to professional community-building, the network would promote a "train-the-trainer" model by offering pathways for faculty to engage in free or low-cost online courses and virtual environments such as Cisco Packet Tracer and Hack The Box. This experience-based proposal aims to strengthen HBCU cybersecurity programs by enriching faculty expertise, aligning student learning outcomes with workforce needs, and increasing academic and career-building opportunities. Through this initiative, HBCUs can create a sustainable, community-driven solution that elevates educator capacity and student success in cybersecurity.
Keywords: HBCUs, cybersecurity education, faculty development, curriculum collaboration, online learning, professional networks
REFERENCES
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