Seton Hall Students Excel in Global Cybersecurity Challenge

Undergraduate members of Seton Hall’s Cybersecurity Club are receiving recognition for their strategic application of cybersecurity and diplomatic policies, as showcased by their top 16 placement in the annual Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge. This unique event, held virtually and in Washington D.C. on March 15-16, 2024, is designed to provide students from a range of academic disciplines with a deeper understanding of the policy challenges associated with cyber threats. Part-interactive learning experience and part-competitive scenario exercise, it challenges teams to respond to a realistic, evolving, multinational cybersecurity incident.

The Seton Hall "Sea-Wolves" were selected from over 100 global entries, crafting a standout mock United Nations Advisory Report that earned them one of the 32 spots in the competition. The team, composed of three undergraduates from the Stillman School of Business majoring in IT Management — Thorin Collins, Steven Kulangara, and Kayla Barone — demonstrated effective application of policy and strategy, advancing to the semi-finals and ultimately securing a top 16 finish. The students received coaching and mentorship from Cybersecurity Club Founder, Nicole Gizzi, as well as faculty from the Department of Computer Science, and the club’s faculty advisor, Eric Lopez. 

“Seton Hall University students studying computer science, business, diplomacy, and law have been participating in the Cyber 9/12 competition since 2022,” explains Lopez. “This competition requires teamwork, proficiency in various disciplines, and the ability to process large volumes of information in a short period of time to produce great results. Despite the increasing complexity of the challenges each year, our students' foundation in Diplomacy, Cybersecurity, and Policy has enabled them to advance amongst universities and military academies around the world.” 

Sponsored by the Atlantic Council, the Cyber 9/12 Challenge engages over one thousand students worldwide and has expanded to include regional competitions across the United States, as well as in London, Dundee, Geneva, Paris, and Cape Town.

The Cybersecurity Club is one of the many academic programs, events and resources offered by Seton Hall University to shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, policymakers, and lawyers and their ability to face complex cyber threats. Any Seton Hall student interested in learning more about the Club or future competitions is encouraged to contact Cybersecurity Club President, Sara Bajwa.

Categories: Science and Technology