2024 MS-CC Annual Meeting
Join us in Washington, D.C., May 29-31, 2024.
The Minority Serving – Cyberinfrastructure Consortium (MS-CC) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for our second Annual Meeting. It will take place in Washington, D.C., May 29-31, 2024, at The Mayflower Hotel located at 1127 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036.
The MS-CC Annual Meeting is a gathering of your peers, practitioners, community- builders, advocates, and leaders from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), tribal colleges and universities (TCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs), and the broader community of minority-serving institutions (MSIs).
It is a once-a-year opportunity to come together and create a space where HBCUs and TCUs lead the conversation around sustainable campus-level IT capabilities for data-intensive education and research programs. Register now!
The MS-CC Annual Meetings are made possible thanks to support and funding from the National Science Foundation under awards #2137123 and #2234326.
Keynote Speaker
We are excited to announce that Dr. Fay Cobb Payton, an award-winning researcher and STEM thought leader, will deliver the closing keynote at the Second MS-CC Annual Meeting. She will present on The Importance of Inclusive Cyberinfrastructure on Friday, May 31.
General Schedule
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
| Time | Title | Room |
|---|---|---|
| 4 – 6 p.m. | Check-in & Badge Pickup | Lobby Level |
| 5 – 7 p.m. | Welcome Reception
Please join us for a welcome reception in the District Ballroom on the lower level of The Mayflower Hotel. Beverages and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Official Sponsor: Internet2 Gold Sponsor: OmniSOC Co-Gold Sponsors: Cirrus Identity & SCG Collaboration Group Silver Sponsors: Cisco, Nile, and Nokia. |
District Ballroom |
Thursday, May 30, 2024
| Time | Title | Room |
|---|---|---|
| 8 – 11 a.m. | Check-in & Badge Pickup | Lobby Level |
| 8 – 8:45 a.m. | Breakfast | State Ballroom |
| 9 – 9:15 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks | Palm Court Ballroom |
| 9:15 – 10 a.m. | Opening Keynote | Palm Court Ballroom |
| 10 – 10:30 a.m. | Morning Refreshment Break | State Ballroom |
| 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Access to Cyberinfrastructure Resources: Federal Funding Pathways for HBCUs and TCUs Panelists will be announced soon. Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) require individual considerations for strategic cyberinfrastructure action. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. In the last five years, various funding agencies have taken targeted steps to address this issue. This panel session will feature representatives from federal funding agencies, offering updates on their strategies to improve access to national and local cyberinfrastructure resources for HBCUs and TCUs. We will also discuss each agency’s efforts to reduce barriers in grant application processes and share insights on enhancing successful outcomes for HBCUs and TCUs seeking funding opportunities. |
Georgia Room |
| 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Post Quantum Cryptography Transition Speaker: Dr. Bharat S Rawal, Grambling State University Large quantum computers have the potential to break many cryptographic systems, e.g., Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA), Diffie-Hellman key exchange, and the Elliptical Curve Cryptosystem. The DOD is aware of this threat and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is preparing a set of approved encryption and signature schemes that are not susceptible to these attacks by quantum computers, the so-called Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). The task of substituting older encryption and signature schemes raises a number of questions, to which there are not yet clear answers. In this talk, we discuss the transition to PQC on existing networks, explain the approved PQC schemes, describe the likely path to an adaptation of PQC, and offer forward guidance on challenges and threats that may be encountered in the process of transition to PQC. This presentation discusses the impacts of the new PQC schemes on network performance and speculates on possible side-channel attacks on the new encryption scheme. This presentation offers hardware/software solutions based on the Split protocol and introduces a novel method for verifying the source of Quantum Key Distribution Technique. |
Palm Court Ballroom |
| 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Navigating the Mesoscale: Technology’s Role in Unveiling New Research Frontiers Speakers: Camelia Kantor, Pennsylvania State University Justin Graham, Fayetteville State University A pioneering initiative led by Penn State University in partnership with three Historically Black Colleges and Universities is leveraging the full potential of data-driven research to uncover the mysteries of emergent biological properties at the mesoscale. This presentation will delve into how the integration of sophisticated cyberinfrastructure and computational tools sets new paradigms for exploring complex biological systems. By fostering a community that blends diverse scientific insights with cutting-edge computational resources, this initiative is paving the way for transformative discoveries. Central to its strategy is the utilization of advanced cyberinfrastructure, including supercomputing facilities and comprehensive support in statistical modeling, machine learning, biophysical, and systems modeling. This approach is facilitated by a dedicated team of PhD-trained staff scientists with expertise in bioinformatics, data science, and multi-scale modeling, highlighting the pivotal role of IT and cyber technologies in modern scientific research. The initiative places a strong emphasis on workforce development in the science and technology sectors. By engaging postdoctoral scholars, and graduate and undergraduate students from around the country in synthesis-driven research, it aims to cultivate a new generation of technologically proficient scientists along with fostering diversity through strategic partnerships with Minority Serving Institutions, enhancing education in the molecular and cellular sciences |
Massachusetts Room |
| 11:45 to 1 p.m. | Lunch and Networking | State Ballroom |
| 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. |
Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) – MSI Panel Speakers: Alex Grandon, AIHEC Jacqueline El Sayed, American Society of Engineering Education MD Rahman, Morgan State University Dennis Dye, Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute Umesh Reddy, West Virginia State University The National Science Foundation Computer and Information Science and Engineering Research Expansion Program (CISE MSI) supports research capacity, project planning and partnership building at minority-serving institutions to broaden participation in computer and information science and engineering. The program provides opportunities for research expansion at HBCUs, TCUs and other MSIs with the goal to foster innovation, cultivate current and future undergraduate and graduate computer and information science and engineering talent, and bolster long-term U.S. competitiveness. A panel including representatives from the American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE), the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) and grant recipients from the program, will provide an overview of the program, present information on projects currently funded through the program, and discuss proposal development support available through ASEE and AIHEC. |
Georgia Room |
| 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. |
Academic Cyberinfrastructure for Data-driven Sciences Speaker: Widodo Samyono, Jarvis Christian University The main aim of the project is to lay the foundations for capacity building academic cyberinfrastructure for data driven sciences at Jarvis Christian University. The three year project is entitled “Academic Cyberinfrastructure for Data-Driven Sciences”. The foundations consist of four structures: software libraries, secured database systems, secured IoT devices and networks, and secured mobile devices and networks. |
Palm Court Ballroom |
| 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. |
Climate Science and Cyberinfrastructure: Reflective Discussion Across Career Stages and Disciplines Panelists will be announced soon There is a need to reframe the conversation around STEAM. workforce development away from a “pipeline” into a braided river – a framework with a multitude of entry points and diversity of pathways (Batchelor et al., 2021). Careers in climate science continue to be in demand with more than 4.2 million U.S. climate jobs in 2022 (Environmental and Energy Study Institute). Additionally, once on a climate science career path, what different approaches move research from intra-disciplinary to cross-disciplinary to eventually trans-disciplinary? This 1-hour panel aims to create intentional space for an open, reflective discussion with climate scientists across career stages and disciplines. Moderator Rae Quadara, MS-CC Assistant Director Climate Science Program, is joined by her colleagues engaged in current climate science research and workforce development programming at or with HBCUs and MSIs. Perspectives include current graduate students, staff, and faculty on their career journeys, climate science infrastructure, and more! References: Batchelor, R. L., H. Ali, K. G. Gardner-Vandy, A. U. Gold, J. A. MacKinnon, and P. M. Asher (2021), Reimagining STEM workforce development as a braided river, Eos, 102, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021EO157277. Published on 19 April 2021. |
Massachusetts Room |
| 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Safeguarding Campus Cybersecurity: Best Practices, Training, and Workforce Requirements Speakers: Kenneth Williams, SUNO Henry Rose, Prairie View A&M University Tony Moore, Prairie View A&M University Jim Basney, Trusted CI Cybersecurity is on everyone’s mind. In a time where digital threats loom, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. This requires campuses to not only have the right cybersecurity tools and technology, but to hire, train, and retain their cybersecurity workforce. Our panel brings together cybersecurity thought leaders, practitioners, and educators from across the MS-CC community to discuss cybersecurity education, support systems, and workforce requirements. Through insightful dialogue and shared expertise, we aim to uncover strategies for maintaining a security-first mindset across diverse domains while also cultivating the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. |
Georgia Room |
| 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Preparing Cyber Professionals by Integration of Hands-on Curriculum and Research Experiences Speakers: Jorge Chrichingo, University of South Carolina & South Carolina State University Nikunja Swain, South Carolina State University This presentation will describe the hands-on curriculum and undergraduate research experience at South Carolina State University (SCSU) and the University of South Carolina (USC). Under this project, undergraduate students from both universities have conducted research on topics of interest for the national security, related to command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR). Projects reflect real-world scenarios and open research issues observed by national laboratories and agencies (e.g., the Naval Information Warfare Atlantic (NIWC), Savannah River National Laboratory, and others). The presentation will demonstrate a few projects emulating attacks to cyberinfrastructures, including BGP hijacking attacks, SYN attacks, and UDP abuses. Subsequently, the presenters will demonstrate counterattacks such as securing routing updates and deploying next-generation firewalls. All activities are conducted on a cloud system serving SCSU and USC. |
Palm Court Ballroom |
| 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Embracing Diversity in Technology Leadership: A Catalyst for Campus Progress Speakers: Dameion Brown, Jackson State University Susanna Garner, Purdue University Laura Theademan, Purdue University In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, strategically utilizing advanced information technologies, computational resources, and data management systems is paramount for driving progress in research, education, and campus priorities. However, to truly maximize the potential of these resources, it is essential to embrace diversity and inclusion, particularly regarding educational backgrounds. This proposal explores the intersection of leadership, technology, and diversity, highlighting the importance of leveraging individuals with diverse educational and nontechnical backgrounds, including nontechnical degree holders or people with nontechnical backgrounds, women, minority communities, and other underrepresented groups, to propel campus advancement. |
Massachusetts Room |
| 3:30 – 4 p.m. | Afternoon Refreshment Break | State Ballroom |
| 4 – 5 p.m. | Lightning Talks Join us for this networking session, where we bring together a great group of organizations that understand the specific challenges and requirements of research and education. Confirmed lightning talks inlcude – Building a Community around Cyberinfrastructure – Cloud Computing for Everyone: An Introduction to Jetstream2 – Connecting to Research Computing and Data Communities and Resources – Advancing Research at Under Resourced Institutions – and more! |
State Ballroom |
| 5 – 6 p.m. | Social Hour with Lightning Talks Discussion | State Ballroom |
Friday, May 31, 2024
| Time | Title | Room |
|---|---|---|
| 8 – 9 a.m. | Breakfast | State Ballroom |
| 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. | The Impact of Investing in Diversity Speakers: Jennifer Kim, MS-CC Deshon Miguel, Sun Corridor Networks Together we will discuss and review statistics from the Diversity and STEM: Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities report, the federal government’s most comprehensive collection of data on diversity trends in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) published by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES). Hear from panelists on their career journeys and the impact of various program participation to date. |
Georgia Room |
| 9:15 – 11:30 a.m. | In Conversation: HBCU and TCU Perspectives on Generative AI in Teaching and Research Speakers: Samuel Olatunbosun, Norfolk State Dawn Thurman, Morgan State University Al Anderson, Salish Kootenai College Peter Angelos, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Moderator: Ana Hunsinger, Internet2 We are witnessing unprecedented investment and exponential growth in artificial intelligence (AI). Across our community, HBCU and TCU campuses are seeing the impacts of AI, specifically generative AI, on teaching and learning, research, and enterprise operations. With many economic benefits touted—from increased productivity at lower costs to a higher GDP per capita and job creation—there is no denying the rising concern with fairness, accountability, equity, and transparency in machine learning. So we ask: How might generative Al technologies be embedded into our classrooms in a culturally affirming way to benefit faculty and students? What beneficial scenarios are emerging from generative AI educational use on our campuses? How can academic programs forge inclusive generative AI tools that align ethically with our communities’ diverse cultures and values? How do IT leaders consider privacy protections, data use controls, and research integrity as academic programs integrate generative AI into their curriculums? What IT infrastructure implications must leaders consider when democratizing access to campus cyberinfrastructure resources that include generative AI? Join us for an engaging panel discussion as we answer these questions and more with campus leaders from Norfolk State University, Morgan State University, Salish Kootenai College, and Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. |
Palm Court Ballroom |
| 9:15 – 11:30 a.m. | Mini Workshop on Network Technologies for Data Movement Supporting Research and Education on Campus Networks Workshop Presenters: Jorge Crichigno, University of South Carolina Elie Kfoury, University of South Carolina Jose Gomez, University of South Carolina Separate Registration Required – There is a $25 registration fee to secure your spot in the workshop. The $25 is refunded to participants who attend and complete their participation in the workshop. Join us for an immersive mini-workshop to discuss how campus networks can better support science and engineering applications for research and education activities. This mini-workshop is designed for IT professionals, including system administrators, network engineers, and practitioners in general. The content is also suitable for IT leadership who may want to further understand best practices supporting research and education activities on campus. Our workshop begins by exploring the challenges faced by campus networks. It then dives deep into recent advancements in network technologies that enhance the performance of data transfers across campus networks. Key topics to be covered include Science DMZs, solutions with and without Science DMZs, best practices on TCP congestion control, monitoring networks with perfSONAR, fine-grained telemetry with programmable data plane switches, and more! As a participant, you’ll be provided with access to hands-on training materials running on a virtual platform. By the end of this mini-workshop, you will be able to: – Identify challenges faced by campus networks when supporting research and education. – Describe network architectures, such as Science DMZ, that follow best practices. – Deploy perfSONAR Version 5 to monitor network metrics and visualize them. – Tune TCP parameters to achieve high-performance data transfers. – Develop applications running at line rate on servers and switches by familiarizing yourself with new technologies such as P4 and DPDK. Join us and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to better support science and engineering applications for research and education activities on your campus. Register now! |
Massachusetts Room |
| 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Perspective on Technology Partnerships for Higher Education and MS-CC Campuses Speakers: OmniSOC; Cirrus Identity; Spherical Cow Group During this session, we bring together not-for-profit and for-profit organizations that have a well-established track record of developing solutions specifically designed for higher education institutions to support their research, collaboration, identify management, and cybersecurity needs. |
Georgia Room |
| 11:45 – 12:45 p.m. | Closing Keynote Luncheon The Importance of Inclusive Cyberinfrastructure by Dr. Fay Cobb Payton Read the announcement |
State Ballroom |
| 12:45 – 1:15 p.m. | Concluding Remarks by MS-CC Leadership Board | State Ballroom |
Registration
Registration is free, and travel support is available for students, staff, faculty, and leadership from HBCUs and TCUs. Register today!
We are accepting registration requests from supporters, practitioners, advocates, and community builders who share in MS-CC’s commitment to improving cyberinfrastructure capabilities at HBCUs and TCUs. Please review our registration process guidelines.
Registration requests from individuals who are not employees or students of HBCUs or TCUs will be added to a waitlist and individuals will be notified of their registration status. If approved for registration, a fee of $200 will be required. Preference will be given to individuals whose presentation proposals have been accepted, and to organizations and institutions that have actively participated in MS-CC activities.
Travel Support
The MS-CC is able to provide travel support to registrants from HBCUs and TCUs thanks to our NSF funding. Travel support covers the registration fee, roundtrip travel to Washington, D.C. (air/train/mileage), May 29 and May 30 lodging at the Mayflower Hotel, and more. During registration, an MS-CC Travel Support Acceptance Form detailing what is covered will be provided.
Call for Speakers
To ensure that our program is informed by areas of interest to the HBCU and TCU communities, we encourage presentation submissions across three tracks: climate science, research and campus technology, and leadership.
The call for proposals closed on March 15, 2024.
We encourage presentation proposals from faculty, staff, and leadership at HBCUs and TCUs, and welcome proposals demonstrating cross-collaboration among researchers and IT departments.
For organizations that work closely with HBCUs and TCUs, preference will be given to proposals that include co-presenters from HBCUs and/or TCUs and demonstrate how the collaboration is solving campus IT challenges for an enhanced student, faculty, and staff experience at HBCUs and TCUs.
Reception Sponsors
Official Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
