By Sidney Davis – Communications Manager, MS-CC
Editor’s Note: This Q&A continues our series of short interviews spotlighting members of the MS-CC community. Be on the lookout for additional interviews each month, and email Sidney Davis if there’s an MS-CC community member you would like us to spotlight in the future or if you would like to be in the spotlight yourself. We appreciate community members and all they do to move our mission forward.
Dr. Kenneth L. Williams is the Director of Cybersecurity, Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO). He joined the university’s staff over two years ago.
More About Dr. Kenneth L. Williams
Personal Mantra: “Excellence is built intentionally.”
Best Advice Ever Received (& from whom): During my service as a U.S. Army Cyber Officer, a senior leader once told me, “Think three moves ahead.” That mindset continues to shape how I approach institutional strategy and cybersecurity planning.
How does participation in the MS-CC help you in your current role?
Participation in the MS-CC provides strategic insight that strengthens SUNO’s cybersecurity expansion efforts. As we grow our cybersecurity ecosystem—including enhanced lab environments, workforce-aligned curriculum, and industry partnerships—the ability to engage with peer institutions ensures we remain aligned with national best practices. The collaboration supports both institutional security operations and academic innovation.
Is there a particular resource that you find especially useful?
The collective expertise within the MS-CC community is invaluable. The shared discussions around governance, compliance frameworks, and emerging threat landscapes directly inform our strategic planning. These conversations have helped us refine policies, modernize infrastructure, and position SUNO as a forward-leaning institution in cybersecurity readiness.
How did you/your institution first become involved with MS-CC?
Our involvement began as part of a broader effort to elevate SUNO’s cybersecurity posture and expand its academic footprint in technology disciplines. As we strengthened institutional security practices and pursued greater collaboration nationally, MS-CC emerged as a natural partner in advancing those objectives.
What would you say to encourage other institutions to participate in the MS-CC?
I would encourage institutions to view participation as an investment in both resilience and innovation. MS-CC fosters a collaborative environment where institutions share intelligence, align strategies, and collectively strengthen higher education cybersecurity. In today’s evolving threat landscape, collaboration is not optional—it is essential.
Why does participation in the MS-CC continue to be important for you/your institution?
SUNO is intentionally building a cybersecurity program that serves both regional workforce needs and broader national priorities. Continued participation ensures we remain connected to thought leadership and emerging trends while contributing to the collective advancement of higher education security practices. It allows us to both learn and lead.