POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Marist University’s School of Computer Science and Mathematics is announcing a dynamic partnership with Sentricus, a leading national cybersecurity firm, that will create new pathways for internships, mentorships, and hands-on experiential learning. This partnership will include a new podcast series that explores the latest trends, threats, and innovations in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity field. The series will feature expert insights from Marist faculty and Sentricus executives and developers while giving students valuable access to industry professionals.

Sentricus is also sponsoring an undergraduate cybersecurity capstone project this semester for Marist students focused on artificial intelligence and risk management frameworks. A capstone is a semester-long project that enables students to showcase the skills and knowledge they’ve learned by tackling a contemporary issue and presenting real-world solutions. Marist faculty frequently incorporate employer and industry expertise into capstone projects as part of the University’s emphasis on career preparation and experiential learning.  

“We were excited to partner with Marist because of the University’s strong track record in technology leadership and innovation,” said Will Lynch, Chief Operating Officer of Sentricus. “Our goal is to inspire the next generation of young Americans through collaborations that unite higher ed, the private sector and government expertise.”

Dr. Casimer DeCusatis, Director of Cybersecurity Education at Marist, noted how valuable this partnership will be for students interested in careers in cybersecurity and advanced technologies.

“The Sentricus partnership marks a significant milestone for Marist University’s cybersecurity program,” said Dr. DeCusatis. “It gives our students opportunities to contribute to industry-leading research and engage with a global community of cybersecurity experts through professional media platforms, equipping them to thrive after graduation in today’s fast-paced cybersecurity landscape.”

A Platform for Innovation and Internships
The podcast series will serve as a living classroom, with cybersecurity experts highlighting topics such as threat intelligence, ethical hacking, data protection, and regulatory compliance. Marist students will participate in the podcast in various capacities, such as researching potential guests and topics, serving as production assistants, and providing technical support.

The podcast will soon be available on major streaming platforms—including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts—and will be integrated into classroom discussions, making it a valuable resource for students, educators, and professionals alike.

Sentricus, Google, IBM, RPI featured at Marist Computing Conference Nov. 7
The School of Computer Science and Mathematics will host the annual Marist Computing Conference (MCC) on Friday, November 7. Sponsored by the Enterprise Computing Community (ECC) and the Richard Foy Endowment, the event will feature a dynamic lineup of presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities. Submitted works will be peer-reviewed by representatives from Sentricus, Google, IBM, and other leading organizations.

The conference coincides with Mid-Hudson Valley TechMeet, a student-focused event also being hosted at Marist, which will explore topics such as cybersecurity, enterprise computing, quantum computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data analytics, and STEM education.

The Marist Computing Conference and Mid-Hudson Valley TechMeet are free and open to all. Attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance.

School of Computer Science and Mathematics’ Deep Industry Connections
Marist University is committed to STEM education, offering leading programs in cybersecurity, data science, and software development. The School of Computer Science and Mathematics prepares students for a technology-driven future that is rooted in a liberal arts education. For example, the University’s longstanding relationship with global tech giant IBM, established 30 years ago, has launched graduates’ careers in data analytics, cloud computing, AI and machine learning, software development, and more.

The partnership with Sentricus is the latest in a series of initiatives designed to prepare students for high-impact careers in technology and innovation.

“Working directly with the business community adds significant value to the Marist student experience and enables them to obtain real world expertise from cutting edge organizations, said Dr. Dominick Foti, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Academic Alliances for Marist’s School of Computer Science and Mathematics. “This partnership with Sentricus illustrates Marist’s strategic focus on establishing industry connections that not only enhance students’ learning, but also integrate the University with professional communities across emerging fields such as AI, cybersecurity, applied math, and computer science.”

Marist’s Cybersecurity program has been validated by the National Security Agency’s National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Education (NSA CAE) and completed the final designation process for Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) in August 2025. This prestigious recognition reflects the program’s alignment with rigorous academic and industry standards, further reinforcing Marist’s commitment to preparing students for impactful careers in cybersecurity.

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About Marist University: Founded in 1929, Marist University is a comprehensive, independent four-year institution that blends the liberal arts with pre-professional studies and emphasizes experiential learning to enrich classroom instruction. With campuses in Poughkeepsie, New York, and Florence, Italy, as well as more than 70 programs offering a variety of international study options, the University is a portal to the world and is devoted to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive community. Through six schools offering nearly 50 majors, Marist fosters the intellectual growth and well-being of its more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The University encourages students to explore beyond traditional academic boundaries, pursuing coursework and personal experiences that provide valuable occupational expertise and reflect their individual passions. Marist has been recognized as a top institution in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, The Princeton Review, and others.

About Sentricus: Sentricus is a leader in cybersecurity, compliance, and risk management. It helps organizations navigate complex regulations and emerging threats with clarity and confidence. By combining regulatory expertise with sector-specific solutions, Sentricus empowers teams to build resilience, protect assets, and support growth. With a strong focus on education, Sentricus gives organizations the knowledge to choose the right solutions for their needs and fosters a lasting culture of security.