SEMO’s Cyber Command Center secures $1M donation
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Southeast Missouri State University has received a large gift for a new addition to the campus.
Through a 1-million-dollar gift SEMO will build a state-of-the-art Cyber Command Center.
The generous funding was gifted from Charles Stamp, a 1971 graduate of SEMO, and the money will go into supporting the construction of a new Cyber Command Center.
The new Charles Stamp Cyber Command Center will enhance SEMO’s cybersecurity program, which recently collaborated with IBM to provide students with immersive, real-world training experiences.
“I feel strongly about helping this program mature and helping it as it grows and expands. I’m excited about that,” said Stamp. “The opportunity to work with students and build upon a more significant learning experience for them is something I’m thrilled to be a part of and participate in.”
This facility will allow students to engage in realistic breach scenarios, test their responses to enterprise-level cyber incidents, and build stronger security measures.
Giving students hands-on real-life experience.
“I am appreciative for Charlie’s generosity,” said SEMO President Dr. Carlos Vargas. “That generosity extends well beyond this remarkable gift. He has a history of supporting SEMO, especially our students. He knows first-hand the importance of real-world learning experiences for students. Charlie has given financial support repeatedly to increase those opportunities for our students and he has given of his time continuously to mentor them. I am sincerely grateful for what he has done and continues to do for SEMO.”
The new Cyber Command Center and Program is also supported by State of Missouri funding efforts, including House Bill 297, signed into law by Governor Mike Parson in July 2021. The legislation officially designates SEMO as an institution of higher education with a statewide mission in computer science and cybersecurity, making it the only institution in Missouri with this designation.
The Charles Stamp Cyber Command Center is located in Dempster Hall.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held October 25 to officially celebrate its completion and naming in honor of Stamp.
