Apr 13 2023

Higher Ed Reimagined: Student-Run SOC Protects University Assets

When the COVID-19 pandemic reached the U.S., universities across the country sent students, faculty and staff home — along with their devices and other university assets. The University of Cincinnati was no exception, and as this environment became more complex to manage, IT staff decided to tap its student body for help. Standing up a student-run security operations center allows the university to reap the benefits of an enthusiastic workforce and gives these student workers valuable experience that they can take into their post-college careers.

Participants

    Matthew Williams, Executive Director of Information Security and Deputy CISO, University of Cincinnati

    Katrina Biscay, CISO, University of Cincinnati

Video Highlights

  • At the University of Cincinnati’s student-run security operations center, students monitor university assets and handle the initial incident response under the supervision of full-time university employees.
  • Co-op students receive academic credit while gaining hands-on work experience that will benefit them after graduation.
  • The university plans to transition the SOC into a 24/7 operation with plans to provide resources to other institutions in Ohio.