Collin College’s cybersecurity program earned national recognition after receiving a 2025 academic award from EC-Council. The program was named a recipient of the Academia Circle of Excellence Award, which honors institutions demonstrating leadership in cybersecurity education, workforce preparation, and instructional quality across global academic communities.

The Academia Circle of Excellence Award highlights programs that consistently align curriculum with industry standards, support student advancement, and strengthen the cybersecurity workforce. This recognition places Collin College among elite institutions shaping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Damien Smith, director of Workforce Cybersecurity at Collin College said, “the award reflects the program’s commitment to academic rigor, workforce alignment, and student success.” He added that receiving international recognition validates the college’s continued investment in cybersecurity education and innovation.

EC-Council’s Academia division recognizes institutions and educators who demonstrate excellence in instruction, leadership, and engagement. As a result, the award reinforces the program’s standing as a leader in cybersecurity education and workforce development.

(Source: Collin College)

In addition, Cybersecurity Professor Glenn Kimball earned the 2025 Academia Instructor Circle of Excellence Award. The honor recognizes Kimball’s contributions to cybersecurity education and his impact on student learning outcomes. His work emphasizes practical skills, collaboration, and preparing students to address evolving cybersecurity challenges.

“I’m humbled and honored to receive this recognition,” Kimball said. He noted that inspiring students to elevate their knowledge remains central to his teaching mission. Kimball added that the award affirms the program’s collaborative approach and its focus on measurable student advancement.

Collin College has received multiple EC-Council honors in previous years, including Innovator of the Year and Instructor of the Year. For more information about Collin College’s cybersecurity program, visit collin.edu/department/cybersecurity.