For 15 years, the Center for Cyber Safety & Education has worked to create opportunities for people looking to build a future in cybersecurity. Gloria Nwaigba's story is one example of what that support can make possible.

For Nwaigba, cybersecurity was not where her career started.

She earned her bachelor's degree in agricultural economics before discovering cybersecurity through a digital training program for women. During the program, she was introduced to the field and learned about the need for more women in cybersecurity.

"I got to know that women can actually be in the field of cybersecurity."

That experience led Nwaigba to make a career change and pursue a master's degree in cybersecurity in Munich, Germany. This is where she developed an interest in cyber threat intelligence and incident response with hopes to build a career in those areas.

But continuing her education has not always been easy.

Last year, financial challenges at her university forced Nwaigba to put her studies on hold. Her university account was locked, she lost her enrollment, and she could no longer continue as a student worker.

Despite the setback, she continued moving forward. While her education was on hold, Nwaigba continued building her skills through cybersecurity certifications from SANS Institute and Amazon Web Services (AWS), keeping herself on track toward her career goals.

Nwaigba was recently named one of the Center for Cyber Safety & Education's 2026 Academic Scholarship Recipients, giving her the support she needed to return to school and continue her master's degree.

For Nwaigba, receiving the scholarship was a turning point.

"Because of your donations, I was able to go back to school."

She described the moment as more than a return to the classroom.

"My hope has been reignited."

As she continues her education, she is focused on building a future in cybersecurity and hopes her story encourages other women, especially those coming from nontechnical backgrounds, to consider the field.

" Women coming from non-tech backgrounds into cybersecurity will be encouraged to always dream, fight, upskill, and never give up. "

As the Center celebrates 15 years, Gloria's story shows the impact that a scholarship can have at a critical point in someone's journey. It can help a student return to school, continue pursuing their goals, and move one step closer to a career in cybersecurity.

Her message to those who make these opportunities possible is simple: "Please keep donating, keep supporting."

Support the Next 15

The numbers show reach. The stories show transformation.

For 15 years, the Center for Cyber Safety & Education has helped open doors through scholarships, education, certifications, and career opportunities. Gloria's story shows what that support can make possible.

Help us create the next chapter of impact.

Donate today and support the next 15 years.

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