In celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Capitol Tech Chair of Cybersecurity, Dr. Kellep Charles, welcomes all to join us in practicing cyber safety and to participate in our upcoming cyber-focused events such as Cyber Saturdays and our expert-led webinars
Dear Capitol Technology University Community,
October marks the start of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time when we come together to highlight the importance of safeguarding our digital lives. As a cybersecurity educator, I often remind my students and colleagues that while October provides a national spotlight, every month should be a time of heightened awareness. Cybersecurity touches every part of our daily lives, our economy, and our national security.
For more than 20 years, Cybersecurity Awareness Month has reminded us that small, deliberate actions can significantly reduce risks online. This year, the focus extends to the government entities and the small and medium-sized businesses that form the backbone of our nation’s critical infrastructure. Much of this infrastructure is owned and operated by state, local, tribal, and territorial governments as well as private companies. Each plays a vital role in ensuring that the services we depend on remain resilient and secure against growing cyber threats.
The 2025 theme “Building a Cyber Strong America” challenges us to strengthen our country’s infrastructure, protect vital systems, and commit to resilience in the face of evolving cyber risks. Cyber threats don’t take time off, and neither should we. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) urges all organizations, regardless of size, to take at least one step today to improve their security posture.
At Capitol Technology University, we are joining this effort with a series of opportunities for engagement and learning:
- Practice safe usage of institutional equipment – protect university systems and your personal devices by following secure practices.
- Read our special Cybersecurity Awareness Month blogs – explore insights written by faculty and students.
- Participate in our webinars – engage with experts and strengthen your knowledge on pressing cybersecurity issues.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance and CISA continue to remind us that small actions make a big difference. This year, the Core Four steps can help protect you, your family, and your organization online:
- Use strong passwords and a password manager
- Turn on multifactor authentication
- Recognize and report scams
- Keep your software updated
I invite all of you to take part in Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025. Let’s use this opportunity not only to learn, but to put security into practice.
As Bruce Schneier once said, “Security is a process, not a product.” Let us embrace that mindset together.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kellep Charles
Chair, Cybersecurity Programs
Capitol Technology University
To learn more about our cybersecurity programs, visit our website.