The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has received $1 million in funding from Google.org to establish the statewide Cybersecurity Clinic Network, expanding hands-on learning opportunities for students while delivering critical cybersecurity support to organizations across Arkansas.
The new initiative builds on the university’s leadership in the network, a collaborative effort that brings together colleges and universities across the state to strengthen cybersecurity education, training and workforce development.
“This is an important step forward for our students, our partners, and communities across Arkansas,” said UA Little Rock Chancellor Christina S. Drale. “At UA Little Rock, we are committed not only to preparing students for the future, but to applying what we do in ways that directly strengthen our communities. This initiative does both.”
The Cybersecurity Clinic Network will connect students, faculty and partner institutions to provide real-world cybersecurity services to underserved organizations, including small utilities, municipalities, rural healthcare providers, K–12 schools, nonprofits and small businesses.
Support from Google.org makes it possible to scale this work statewide, expanding access to hands-on learning while strengthening cybersecurity capacity for organizations across Arkansas. In addition, prior funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response, secured through Sen. John Boozman’s office, supported the development of key technologies that enable the clinic’s cybersecurity assessment and remediation services.
“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 for Google.org, Google’s philanthropy arm. “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.”
Students participating in the clinics will work under faculty supervision to conduct cybersecurity assessments, recommend secure systems, deploy monitoring tools and assist with remediation planning using industry best practices.
“Our goal is to ensure students have meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare them to succeed in critical fields like cybersecurity,” said Provost Ann Bain. “This model connects classroom learning with real-world challenges, giving students the opportunity to build practical skills while making a meaningful impact across our state.”
The program is expected to train more than 500 students and support more than 150 organizations statewide over the next six years. It will also be part of the Consortium of Cybersecurity Clinics, providing students with access to expanded training, collaboration and career pathways.
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