Champlain College Receives $1 Million Google.org Grant to Establish Cybersecurity Clinic

“Champlain graduates top-tier cybersecurity professionals that organizations like Google.org want to champion,” said Champlain College president Alex Hernandez. “Through the Google Clinic, Champlain students will gain valuable hands-on experiences that set them apart in their careers.”

Supervised by a professional services manager and with mentorship support from both faculty and industry professionals, student workers will conduct risk and vulnerability assessments, provide recommendations, and implement changes that ensure the security of organizations and their data. This approach to the clinic’s structure builds upon the established range of services the Leahy Center currently offers to critical public infrastructure and community organizations.

“The Leahy Center has long been a hub for cybersecurity expertise, guidance, and support for organizations and individuals across Vermont,” said Adam Goldstein, dean of the Division of Information Technology & Sciences and academic director for the Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity. “With this funding and through the Google Cybersecurity Clinic, we have the unique opportunity to broaden access to this specialized guidance for companies in Vermont. Our students and faculty are excited and ready to maximize upon this funding and make lasting change to the cybersecurity landscape.”

For 16 years, the Leahy Center has spearheaded advancements in the fields of computer forensics and digital investigations, including building methodologies and processes to train Champlain students to work with vulnerable organizations. Its proven track record in offering these services and collaborating with a diverse range of clients provides a platform for the Google Cybersecurity Clinic Fund to further influence industry practices and shape conversations around cybersecurity.

“Navigating the recent increase in disruptive cyber attacks on essential services—from local power grids to hospitals—will rely on a strong cyber workforce capable of defending against everyday threats,” said Maab Ibrahim, Head of Knowledge, Skills, and Learning for the Americas, Google.org. “Cyber clinics are a crucial part of this effort: it gives students the hands-on experience they need to start careers, while at the same time providing vital, no-cost security services to local organizations that need them most. It’s a smart investment in both our workforce and the critical infrastructure that communities depend on.”

Through its work with Google.org, Champlain will host an annual Cybersecurity Summit to showcase its students’ skills and professional offerings, as well as to network with prospective clients. Google.org’s support of the Consortium of Cybersecurity Clinics in this initiative will also allow Champlain students and faculty access to a network of more than 20 other institutions platforming Google clinics to exchange ideas, learn, and develop their careers.