GCCC Students Participate in 2025 FBI & KU Cybersecurity Conference
[Garden City, KS] April 24, 2025 – Six Garden City Community College students, accompanied by Associate Professor of Computer Science Ron Carlson, participated in the 2025 FBI & KU Cybersecurity Conference, held April 3–4 at the University of Kansas Memorial Union in Lawrence. The event provided an immersive opportunity for students to explore cutting-edge cybersecurity topics, network with industry professionals, and deepen their understanding of real-world digital security challenges.
The annual conference, co-hosted by the University of Kansas (KU) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), brings together leaders from government, industry, and academia to discuss emerging trends and pressing issues in the cybersecurity field. This year’s keynote speaker was Brian McClendon, Vice President at Niantic, Inc., who shared insights in his talk, "A Personal History of Location Data."
In addition to expert-led presentations and discussions, the conference featured student research presentations from across the region. KU students showcased their work through poster sessions, with standout contributions receiving formal recognition.
GCCC students who attended the 2025 conference included: Ada Chanthavong, Ruth Herrera, Victor Herrada, Miguel Bustos, Esteffan Lucero, and Aruchi Mbato.
“The experience was not only educational but truly inspiring for our students,” said Professor Carlson. “Events like this align perfectly with our Cybersecurity program’s mission to prepare students for dynamic careers in digital security and intelligence.”
GCCC’s participation in the conference is part of its growing partnership with the University of Kansas through the Kansas Consortium of the Intelligence Community Centers for Academic Excellence (ICCAE). Supported by a $2.4 million expansion grant in 2022, this partnership provides access to programs in cybersecurity, biotechnology, information technology, criminal justice, and health sciences. The ICCAE initiative is designed to equip students with the analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills necessary for roles in the U.S. Intelligence Community and related fields.
The ICCAE program at KU offers certificates and minors in Intelligence and National Security Studies (INSS), along with valuable resources such as scholarships, internships, study abroad opportunities, and career mentorship.
Garden City Community College remains committed to providing students with transformative academic experiences that enhance career readiness and open doors to in-demand fields.
Front Row: Dr. Ashley Urban – Education Program Manager Kansas ICCAE; Ada Chanthavong, Ruth Herrera. Back Row: Victor Herrada, Miguel Bustos, Esteffan Lucero, Aruchi Mbato.
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