Two Maryland Educators Honored with the Champion Educator Award at 2024 Cocktails & Codebreakers Reception
Glen Burnie, MD (October 24, 2024) – The National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) and the Intelligence and National Security Foundation (INSF) proudly announced today that Mr. Daniel Rose and Mr. Derrick Harrell have been awarded the inaugural Champion Educator Award at the 3rd Annual Cocktails & Codebreakers reception.
Mr. Daniel Rose, a Digital Literacy teacher at Robert Frost Middle School in Rockville, MD, and Mr. Harrell, a STEAM instructor formerly at St. Mary of the Mills in Laurel, Maryland, have significantly contributed to educating students about cybersecurity principles through the NCF Ambassador Program. This initiative aims to equip students with essential skills in data protection and responsible online practices.
Since its launch in 2023, the NCF Ambassador Program has successfully pinned 100 students as NCF Student Ambassadors. Participants receive live instruction from qualified educators, focusing on comprehensive lessons derived from the NCF's "Outsmart Cyberthreats" (O.C.) booklet. These lessons cover vital topics such as data care, encryption, and maintaining personal security online.
Upon completing the program, students are celebrated in a culminating ceremony, where they are honored for their dedication to cybersecurity principles. Each student receives a certificate and an NCF Ambassador pin recognizing their commitment to safeguarding personal information.
"We are thrilled to recognize Mr. Rose and Mr. Harrell for their exceptional work in promoting cybersecurity education among our youth," said Dr. Alisha Jordan, NCF Education Director. "Their passion and dedication are instrumental in shaping the next generation of informed digital citizens."
Cocktails & Codebreakers is an annual tribute co-hosted by NCF and INSF to honor the contributions of cryptologists and codebreakers throughout history. This event underscores the critical role of cryptology in shaping cybersecurity practices today. This year, Gen Timothy Haugh, USAF, Commander, U.S. Cyber Command; Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service, and White House National Cyber Director, Mr. Harry Coker, Jr., participated in a Fireside Chat moderated by journalist Mr. Steve Scull. Mr. Scully hosts and anchors "The Briefing with Steve Scully" on Sirius XM POTUS 124. In addition, Mr. Montel Williams, a military veteran/retired cryptologic officer (US Marines & Navy), actor & motivational speaker, participated in a second Fireside Chat with Mr. Scully following the Champion Education Award Ceremony.
About The National Cryptologic Foundation
The National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) is dedicated to advancing the nation's interest in cyber and cryptology by:
- Educating citizens to be cyber-smart individuals,
- Developing pathways for the future cyber and cryptologic workforce,
- Engaging and convening partners to address emerging cyber and cryptologic issues and,
- Commemorating our cryptologic history and those who served.
About the Intelligence and National Security Foundation
The Intelligence and National Security Foundation (INSF) is committed to advancing knowledge and understanding of intelligence and national security issues among the public and private sectors
For more information about the National Cryptologic Foundation and its initiatives, please visit www.cryptologicfoundation.org
Media Contact: Christine Harding Director, Communications & Marketing National Cryptologic Foundation charding@cryptologicfoundation.org (301) 399-4101
