Augusta University (AU) has been honored with the 2025 CSO50 Award, a prestigious recognition that highlights exceptional innovation and leadership in cybersecurity.
The university, one of only three in the nation to receive the accolade, was praised for its forward-thinking project titled “Born from Necessity: A Unique Approach to Solving Resource Challenges,” according to a press release from AU.
Presented by Computer Security Online (CSO), the CSO50 Award celebrates 50 projects annually that demonstrate effective security strategies, delivering significant business value.
Augusta University was recognized alongside renowned companies like Aflac, Intel Corporation, Mastercard and Principal Financial Group.
This marks the second consecutive year AU has earned the CSO50 Award, underscoring the university’s continued excellence in cybersecurity, according to a press release from AU.
The award honors the university’s work within the Security Operations Center (SOC), which is located in the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center.
Faced with post-COVID budget constraints and staffing shortages, AU’s Cyber Defense team reimagined how to support the SOC, and their solution resulted in a remarkable 300% increase in resources, helping safeguard both Augusta University and Wellstar MCG Health from emerging cyber threats.
“Augusta University’s recognition as one of the top cybersecurity innovators is a testament to the dedication of our IT and Cyber Defense teams,” said AU President Russell T. Keen. “The Security Operations Center plays a vital role in strengthening defenses and serving as a hub for collaboration with students, faculty, and industry partners.”
The project not only enhanced security operations but also provided hands-on training for students and military interns, offering them real-world experience with industry tools and data, according to a press release from AU, according to a press release from AU.
“This project was born out of necessity to protect our university, and in doing so, we created a scalable model that empowers our students and interns with practical experience,” said Michael Casdorph, vice president for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer.
The success of Augusta University’s SOC has garnered attention from both national and international sectors, according to a press release from AU, according to a press release from AU. Representatives from the White House, National Security Agency, and various foreign delegations have toured the facility to learn from AU’s recent success.
To find out more about how the 2025 CSO50 Award showcased AU’s impact on cybersecurity education and innovation, click here.
