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Governor Snyder and Michigan's Senior Federal Policy Representative Katie Toskey Named Winners of the SANS Institute's 2017 Difference Makers AwardsBETHESDA, Md., Dec. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- SANS Institute today announced Governor Snyder and Michigan's Senior Federal Policy Representative Katie Toskey have been named among the winners of the 2017 SANS Difference Makers Award. The Difference Maker Awards were created to honor the unsung heroes in cyber security whose innovation, skill, and hard work have resulted in real successes in information security. "The cybersecurity talent among Michigan students is impressive," said Alan Paller, National Program Manager, U.S. CyberStart and Director of Research, SANS Institute. Governor Snyder was recognized for his leadership in finding new ways to develop the cyber-capable workforce by bringing CyberStart pilot program to students in Michigan. CyberStart is a forward-thinking skills program designed to inspire the next generation cyber security professionals while identifying talented young Americans. In addition to providing a unique learning opportunity and scholarships for students, the program can lead to job growth and improved cyber security in Michigan. The CyberStart pilot program was managed by Ms. Toskey who in just two weeks, with the help of her communication team, signed up 104 Michigan students; 60 percent of the students qualified for the CyberStart Game. Of the nearly 3,300 students ompeting from seven states, three Michigan high school and college students were in the overall top 50 nationally. Eight Michigan students won scholarships for more advanced education in cyber security. Participant Robert Corser, a junior at Spring Arbor University sent a note to Governor Snyder saying, "I really appreciate this program and think it is a great way for someone to test their skills or to get people interested in cyber security who otherwise wouldn't be." To learn more about the SANS Difference Makers Awards, visit: www.sans.org/cyber-innovation-awards About SANS Institute
SOURCE SANS Institute |