For Immediate Release
January 15, 2026
www.paine.edu – 706.821.8323

Paine College Launches Cybersecurity Education Initiative, Forging Direct Pipeline to Fort Gordon and National Defense Careers

AUGUSTA, Ga. – January 16, 2026 – Paine College is launching a comprehensive cybersecurity initiative, establishing a direct academic pipeline to the U.S. Army Cyber Command headquarters at Fort Gordon. New courses will begin in Spring 2026, with plans for dedicated bachelor's and master's degrees under review, positioning the College as a critical talent source for the nation's cyber defense. Spearheaded by Paine College President Lester A. McCorn and newly appointed Provost Walter T. Tillman, Jr., Ph.D., the initiative leverages Paine's strategic location to address urgent regional and national security workforce needs. The College has moved rapidly, appointing key faculty and approving its first slate of courses.

"The Cybersecurity Education Initiative represents a significant investment in both our students and our nation's security," said Dr. Lester McCorn, president of Paine College. "By expanding our cybersecurity course offerings and strengthening our connection to the Army Cyber Command at Fort Gordon, we are creating clear, attainable pathways for students to move from the classroom into meaningful careers that directly support national defense."

Building a Foundational Program

The initial course offerings, available from Spring 2026, provide students with immediate entry into the field:

• Introduction to Cybersecurity
• Cyberpsychology
• Computer Programming Fundamentals


Paine College has begun petitioning its accrediting body for authorization to offer a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, and a Master of Public Policy with a Cybersecurity concentration. Decisions are expected before the end of the calendar year.
 

Leadership and Expert Faculty

A newly assembled team of experts will lead the academic and strategic launch:

Christopher D. Nazareth, Ph.D., serves as the inaugural Chair of the School of Applied, Natural and Health Sciences and Assistant Research Professor of Cybersecurity and Public Policy. Lenny T. Lewis, Ph.D., a Georgia native, joins as Assistant Research Professor of Cybersecurity and Computer Science and Assistant Professor of Business Analytics in January 2026. Charleston C. Lee, a distinguished Paine alumna and one of its youngest graduates, is the Associate Director of Analytics and Accreditation and Instructor of Data Science.

Strategic Vision for Growth

"This cybersecurity initiative is a cornerstone of Paine College's forward trajectory," said Provost Tillman. "Under President McCorn's leadership, we are building programs that reflect national imperatives and provide unique regional value. As we finalize our 2026–2036 strategic plan, this rollout marks a transformative step in Paine's evolution as an institution committed to innovation and impact."

The program development underscores Paine College's commitment to evolving with national interests while strengthening its unique regional partnership with one of the nation's most critical cyber defense installations.

About Paine College

Paine College, affiliated with the United Methodist Church and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, is a private HBCU that offers a liberal arts education. Accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), Paine is located in the heart of Augusta, Geogia.