Virginia Lehmkuhi-Dakhwe, director of the Jay Pinson STEM Education project, speaks at a cybersecurity event (Robert Bain photo).
Intel Corp. has made a $25,000 lead gift to a new SJSU initiative aimed at introducing middle-school girls to cybersecurity.
“We are extremely grateful for Intel’s partnership and willingness to support this program,” said Virginia Lehmkuhi-
The initiative, “Girls STEM Network: Cybersecurity,” or GSN:Cyber, will help middle-school girls learn how to protect the online environments of their families and communities.
At the same time, the program will enhance the girls’ knowledge of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects.
San Jose State will provide training and support for SJSU students and community organization leaders, who will in turn help participating girls develop a deeper understanding of the risks of cyberspace. The experience will also encourage girls to consider careers in computer science and cybersecurity.
GSN: Cyber will leverage the expertise of SJSU faculty and staff members, campus infrastructure and strategic partnerships with industry and community organizations serving girls and women. The program will operate at SJSU and in after-school programs, reaching 180 girls and 18 SJSU student instructors in its first year of operation.