Ivy Tech Community College Lafayette’s School of Information Technology has launched a hands-on cybersecurity initiative made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Arconic Foundation. The project allows students to collaborate with Faculty Fellow Oscar Wong to provide cybersecurity assessment and training for nonprofit organizations across Greater Lafayette.
The initiative enhances classroom learning by giving students the chance to work as a team with Wong on real-world cybersecurity assessments. Students gain practical experience while local nonprofits strengthen their security practices in an increasingly digital environment.
Our students have completed multiple cybersecurity courses, but this project gives them the opportunity to take their skills out of the classroom and into real organizations. They are learning how to conduct interviews, analyze environments, and provide professional recommendations—skills they will use throughout their careers.
– Dr. Andrew Gibbs, Dean of the School of Information Technology
The first nonprofit partner, Bauer Family Resources, welcomed the Ivy Tech team in September. Bauer provides vital support to local families through youth development programs, early childhood education, and community resource connections. Ivy Tech students and Wong met with Bauer staff, conducted employee interviews, and reviewed physical spaces to identify potential risks. Following the visit, the team compiles notes, debriefs, and presents a set of recommendations back to the nonprofit.
“We are grateful to Ivy Tech and Arconic Foundation for helping strengthen our ability to protect the families we serve,” said Jennifer Hopkins, Chief Financial Officer, Bauer Family Resources. “Cybersecurity is not always top of mind for nonprofits, but it is essential for ensuring the safety of our data and the trust of our community.”
The project will continue through July 2026, with Ivy Tech students and Wong planning to engage with additional area nonprofits to provide cybersecurity assessments and potential follow-up training.
“This work not only supports local organizations who may not have access to cybersecurity expertise, but it also prepares our students to step confidently into a growing career field,” said Dr. Aaron Baute, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Lafayette.
The initiative is funded through a $25,000 grant from the Arconic Foundation. The Foundation supports programs that advance science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and workforce development in communities where Arconic operates. Its investment in Ivy Tech helps prepare students for high-demand careers while also delivering tangible benefits to local nonprofit organizations.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
