Marymount University has been selected to join the Virtual Institutes for Cyber and Electromagnetic Spectrum Research and Employ (VICEROY) Initiative, an elite national program led by the U.S. Department of War that prepares the next generation of cybersecurity and spectrum operations professionals to protect the nation.
With fewer than 45 universities nationwide represented, Marymount’s selection places it among a distinguished group of institutions recognized for excellence in cybersecurity education, research and workforce development. The University joins a select cohort that includes fellow Virginia institutions Virginia Tech and William & Mary.
The VICEROY Initiative is designed to serve as a direct talent pipeline into critical national security roles, connecting students with hands-on training, mentorship from federal and military experts and access to internships and careers across defense and government agencies. Marymount students will gain opportunities to engage in mission-focused cyber exercises, applied research aligned with Department of War priorities and experiential learning environments that mirror real-world defense challenges.
“Being selected to join the VICEROY Initiative is a powerful affirmation of Marymount’s leadership in cybersecurity education and our commitment to preparing students for careers of purpose,” said Dr. Diane Murphy, Director of Marymount’s Center for the Innovative Workforce. “This partnership creates transformative opportunities for our students and is an exciting step forward in expanding access to vital careers in cyber defense.”
Marymount’s inclusion in the Initiative reflects the strength and breadth of its Cybersecurity programs, which span bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. Designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD), the University emphasizes research and applied learning. It has also built a strong track record of student success in workforce preparation and national competitions, including required internships before graduation and a No. 31 national ranking in the 2025 National Cyber League competition.
Marymount’s growing research portfolio includes cybersecurity testing and evaluation work in collaboration with Department of War partners, as well as extensive doctoral research in the field. In addition, the University has received a Department of War Cyber Service Academy (CSA) grant for two consecutive years to support student scholarships.
The VICEROY Initiative, managed by the Griffiss Institute on behalf of the Department of War’s Office of the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering, establishes “virtual institutes” at partner universities to enhance traditional academic programs with high-impact, experiential learning opportunities. These programs are designed to develop job-ready leaders equipped with the technical expertise and operational insight needed to support national defense missions from day one. Marymount’s partnership with VICEROY was launched following a meeting between University President Irma Becerra, VICEROY National Director and Director for Cyber-Spectrum Academic Engagement Chester Maciag and Griffiss Institute VICEROY Principal Investigator Dr. Kimberly Gasaway.
“Marymount University’s entry into the VICEROY Initiative is a key step in strengthening our national talent pipeline,” Maciag said. “Its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, combined with its emphasis on applied research and real-world experiential learning, makes it an excellent fit for our mission. We are preparing the next generation of mission-ready leaders, and Marymount’s commitment to student success will help equip its students to deliver immediate impact in cybersecurity and spectrum operations, meeting the evolving threats our nation faces.”
As part of the Initiative, Marymount will prepare students for the program’s upcoming cohorts, expanding access to mentorship, security clearance pathways and career opportunities in high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analyst, cyber threat hunter and cybersecurity engineer.
“This milestone builds on Marymount’s continued investment in innovative, career-focused education,” President Becerra said. “It reinforces our role as a leader in preparing graduates to meet the evolving challenges of an increasingly complex digital landscape.”
