SCC Receives CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia

Spartanburg Community College Receives CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia

SPARTANBURG, SC – Spartanburg Community College (SCC) has received the CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia from the South Carolina Cyber Foundation in recognition of the College’s contributions to cybersecurity education and workforce development across South Carolina.

The award was presented during the 2026 Secure Carolinas Conference, held August 26–27, 2026, at the ROAM Center in downtown Greenville, South Carolina. SCC was recognized during the conference’s Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, August 26th.

The CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia honors excellence in education that advances cybersecurity knowledge, prepares skilled professionals, and strengthens South Carolina’s cybersecurity workforce.

“The CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia affirms Spartanburg Community College’s commitment to delivering exceptional cybersecurity education that meets the needs of our students and the employers we serve,” said Dr. Michael Mikota, President of Spartanburg Community College. “Dr. Gardner’s leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our cybersecurity program and creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop the knowledge and hands-on skills required in this rapidly evolving field. We are proud of this recognition and grateful for his continued dedication to our students, our College, and South Carolina’s cybersecurity workforce.”

Dr. Gardner joined SCC in 2023 as an instructor in the Computer Technologies Department and was a member of the President’s Leadership Institute’s inaugural cohort, the Class of 2025. Through his leadership, SCC continues to expand opportunities for students to develop the technical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in high-demand cybersecurity careers.

“Spartanburg Community College’s receipt of the 2026 CyberSC Award of Excellence in Cyber-Academia is a tremendous honor and reflects the work being done across the College to prepare students for the rapidly evolving cybersecurity workforce,” said Dr. Gardner. “SCC’s designation as a National Security Agency National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense demonstrates our commitment to providing rigorous, industry-relevant cybersecurity education. Our students are also learning beyond the classroom through hands-on experiences, cybersecurity competitions, and partnerships with industry, government, and higher education. I am incredibly proud of our students and grateful for the support SCC has provided as we continue building a cybersecurity program that serves our students, employers, and communities across South Carolina.”

The recognition reflects SCC’s continued commitment to providing high-quality education and training that responds to workforce needs and prepares students for careers in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity.

The Secure Carolinas Conference brings together cybersecurity professionals, educators, government leaders, industry partners, and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge, build partnerships, and address emerging cybersecurity challenges throughout the Carolinas.

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