Recipients Bio

Megan Rabb (Fall 2024)

I'm Megan Rabb, a junior at South Carolina State University majoring in cyber security. I'm passionate about technology and problem-solving, and I love working in teams to tackle challenges. I’ve had the opportunity to present a cyber security poster at the SC AI Research and Education Conference, which was an amazing experience. I'm a dedicated, hard worker, and I always strive to grow in both my academic and personal life. Outside of school, I enjoy learning new things and supporting those around me, especially my family.

Blake Nichols (Fall 2024)

My name is Blake Nichols, and I'm from Florence, SC. I am a Junior at South Carolina State University, majoring in Cybersecurity. I am currently Vice Chairperson for ACM which is the Association for Cyber Majors in computers and related technologies. I grew a love for the fields of networking and cybersecurity by taking these classes in high school and from my cousin who is a Cyber Security Specialists for the government, and since then I have just wanted to learn more. I am also in our Cybersecurity club where we facilitate learning of various cybersecurity concepts.

Shani Walker (Fall 2024)

M name is Shani Walker. I'm a junior CS major at South Carolina State University. I'm from Augusta, GA. I'm a part of the SCSU cheerleading team and D.O.L.L.S. I gained my interest in computer science in my junior year of high school because of the diversity the industry has. Studying CS here at SCSU I'm able to expand my interest by networking and be a part of different projects and internships.

Jaleel Johnson (Fall 2024)

Hello, My name is Jaleel Johnson, I am a Junior major in cybersecurity at South Carolina State University. I am striving to pursue a career in remote cybersecurity. This past year, I was able to participate in an internal internship with my institution for Computer Science and Cybersecurity Majors. During our tenure, we learn valuable skills regarding Artificial Intelligence and the processes of Machine Learning. Looking forward to this last two years to learn all I can before stepping out in the Cyber world.

Trey Newton (Fall 2024)

Hello, my name is Trey Newton, and I am a Sophomore pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science at South Carolina State University. I strive to have a professional career in software development once I graduate. This past year, I was able to participate in an internal internship with my institution for Computer Science and Cybersecurity Majors. During our tenure, we learn valuable skills regarding Artificial Intelligence and the processes of Machine Learning. Additionally, I also have done micro-internships provided by Parker Dewey to further refine my learnings. I am grateful for the opportunities that I have received this past year, and I will strive to continue my development by continuing my education and research to ensure my success in the future.

Jordana Maciel (Fall 2024)

Hello, my name is Jordana Maciel, and I am a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Information Technology at USC. I have a strong interest in cybersecurity and aim to build a career in this field. This past summer, I completed an internship in IT, where I gained valuable hands-on experience. Additionally, I serve in the Army National Guard, which has enhanced my leadership and problem-solving skills. I believe that engaging in research is a great opportunity to learn more about cybersecurity, which is a passion of mine.

Alana Mireles (Fall 2024)

My name is Alana Mireles, and I am a senior at USC, majoring in Integrated Information Technology. As a JROTC alumna with a passion for technology and helping others, I aspire to pursue a career in cybersecurity after graduation. I am looking forward to gaining hands-on experience through the ONR project, as I've been eager to get involved in undergraduate research but hadn't found the right opportunity until now. I'm excited to contribute to the project during my final year and make the most of this experience!

Heather Howe (Fall 2024)

My name is Heather Howe. I am studying Network Systems Management at Midlands Technical College. I also have a certificate in Cyber Information Assurance from MTC as well as a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian Studies from Temple University. Previously, I studied abroad and taught English in Japan but have since decided to change my career path to the world of Information Technology. I am most interested in pursuing network administration and network design. As cybersecurity is an integral part of both, I look forward for any opportunities to expand my skillset.

Robert Schmidt (Fall 2024)

My name is Robert Schmidt, and I am from Gray Court, SC. I am a senior at the University of South Carolina, majoring in integrated information technology. I hope to expand my knowledge in network security to broaden my career path into Network Infrastructure and Security. I have had two internships, the first as an IT tech for Diversified Coatings Systems and the second currently with the Department of Administration as a Disaster Recovery Intern. I am excited to be apart of the ONR project to expand my skillset and further prepare myself for the professional world of IT after graduation.

Tessa Orwat (Fall 2024)

My name is Tessa Orwat, and I am a senior at USC pursuing a double major in International Studies and Russian, with a minor in Cyber. Growing up in a military family in Northern Virginia, I was exposed to the world of national defense from an early age, particularly through my father's work in the DOD and Intelligence Community in the areas of cyber and AI. My academic and professional interests center on Russian asymmetric and cyber threats to U.S. communications networks, national security, and global stability. I've had the privilege of interning with the U.S. Senate and studying abroad in the Republic of Georgia, where I focused on identity and conflict in the post-Soviet Caucasus region. I am currently preparing to earn my SEC+ certification and am enrolled in Advanced Networking to further my technical expertise. I’m excited to contribute to the ONR project and to gain valuable insights into how I can make a meaningful impact on national security.

Kharis Greear (Fall 2024)

My name is Kharis Greear, and I am a senior in the Honors College studying Integrated Information Technology. In search of a way to nuance and distinguish my studies, I also have a minor in Russian as they are one of our largest cyberthreats and I love languages. I am looking to go into cybersecurity upon graduation, specifically within the ethical hacking sphere. I hope to complete the Certified Ethical Hacker certification in the spring. I had an internship in IT this summer, but I am excited to get some hands on experience more specific to cybersecurity this semester through the ONR project!

Rick Jiang (Spring 2024)

My name is Rick and I am from Lexington, SC.I current Junior in Computer Information Systems (CIS for short) with Cyberops and Business minors. My goals for this ONR research is that just to gain some experience for this. Potentially, getting another opportunity if it come that way. I am excited to work with everyone that is involved.

Chris Moore (Spring 2024)

My name is Chris Moore, and I'm from Greenville, SC. I'm a senior in the Honors College, majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Integrated Information Technology. I've always had a keen interest in cybersecurity, and hope to utilize my programming skills to make meaningful contributions to the field. I am also working on gaining several IT certificates before I graduate in December 2024. I'm looking forward to getting hands-on cybersecurity experience and working with the ONR team to expand my skillset.

Nathaniel (Nathan) Auten (Spring 2024)

My name is Nathaniel (Nathan) Auten, and I'm from Anderson, South Carolina. I'm a Junior at the University of South Carolina: Columbia in the Honors College and College of Engineering and Computing. My major is Integrated Information Technology and I have a minor in Business Administration. I'm passionate about networking and security; I thoroughly enjoy the challenge to be found in these fields, and I appreciate how critical they are to ensuring everyday business and personal computing efficiency and security. I'm very grateful and excited to be a part of the ONR project, where I hope to gain knowledge and experience in the fields of networking and security through my contributions to the project.

Andrea Capraru (Spring 2024)

My name is Andrea Capraru, and I am currently a junior at the University of South Carolina with a major in Integrated Information Technology and a minor in Computer Science; graduating in December 2024. I am excited about the opportunity to learn more about cybersecurity/networking and explore what the field has to offer. Last summer I gained experience working as a data analyst and earned my ITIL certification during the internship. I look forward to working on the ONR project alongside other students and gaining hands-on experience in such a rapidly evolving industry.

John Mullen (Spring 2024)

My name is John Mullen and I am from Holly Springs, NC. I am a Junior at the University of South Carolina and I am majoring in Integrated Information Technology. My hope is to grow my networking skills in network infrastructure and network engineering. I also plan to earn some certifications over the Summer and before I graduate in May 2025. I am excited to work with the ONR on this project and gain valuable experience in my field of study.

Maryelizabeth Macdonald (Spring 2024)

My name is Maryelizabeth Macdonald and I am a current Junior Integrated Information Technology major and Business Administration minor at the University of South Carolina, graduating in May 2025. I’m hoping to advance my knowledge and career in cybersecurity while utilizing the skills I've acquired thus far in University. I have completed both the introduction and advanced networking classes that have led me to take interest in furthering my experience and knowledge. I’m excited for the opportunity to collaborate with others and learn more by working on this research.

DeAngelo Clark (Spring 2024)

My name is DeAngelo Clark, and I am a senior at the University of South Carolina, majoring in Integrated Information Technology. I'm always eager to gain knowledge and experience in cybersecurity. I have recent experience as an IT Specialist Intern at Urban Electric Co., along with my collaboration with SRNL on a cybersecurity project. I look forward to contributing to this project, working alongside my peers, and seizing the opportunity to deepen my understanding of cybersecurity.

William Ferri (Spring 2024)

My name is William Ferri. I am in my second year at the University of South Carolina but am currently classified as a senior. I'm majoring in Integrated Information Technology with a minor in Business Administration, and plan on graduating in May of 2025 with a bachelor's in science. I'm still on a relatively entry-level experience level with networking/cybersecurity, but I have a great passion for this career path and can't wait to explore the possibilities this blossoming field can provide! I have a great interest in sports, especially at the collegiate level, and run a podcast centered around college football as a passion project. I'm very excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity and am eagerly anticipating learning and growing over the duration of this unique project!

Blake Nichols (Fall 2023)

My name is Blake Nichols, and I'm from Florence, SC. I am a Junior at South Carolina State University, majoring in Cybersecurity. I am currently Vice Chairperson for ACM which is the Association for Cyber Majors in computers and related technologies. I grew a love for the fields of networking and cybersecurity by taking these classes in high school and from my cousin who is a Cyber Security Specialists for the government, and since then I have just wanted to learn more. I am also in our Cybersecurity club where we facilitate learning of various cybersecurity concepts.

Tae Choice (Fall 2023)

My name is Tae Choice. I am currently a senior at South Carolina State University majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. My plan is to focus on gaining knowledge in areas like network security, cryptography, malware analysis, and ethical hacking. I also plan on getting a few certifications after I graduate in December.

Keshawn Burns (Fall 2023)

Hello, my name is Keshawn Burns! I am a Computer Science major with a focus in Cybersecurity. My GPA is a 3.7 and am currently a Junior attending South Carolina State University. I recently had an internship with AgFirst over the summer and I was an Application Support Intern. My role there was integral to support the backend programming of a three-year journey called Loan System Replacement project that took the old loan system that was in place for over a decade, and replaced it with a more efficient, up to date loan system. It went live during my internship and was a monumental success. A few things I like to do include gaming_ playing football, playing basketball, running, working out, and listening to music. Some of my skills including programming in java and python, great leadership skills, good work ethic, and communication skills. I hope to learn a lot from this project and broaden by knowledge in the field of Cybersecurity and be able to apply it to real world situations.

Tellajah Chalk (Fall 2023)

Greetings, I am Tellajah Chalk a senior attending South Carolina State University from the small town of Chester SC. I have an associate in arts degree from York Technical College and currently obtaining a bachelor's in computer science with a concentration in Cyber Security. I am a four-time presidential scholar Gold Pin recipient and currently hold a grade point average of 3.5.l currently hold the position of Chair for the Association of Computing Machinery and the Campus Activities Board Chief of Staff at my HBCU. My strengths are computational thinking, customer service, being an oriented team leader, and strategic thinking. Outside of work and school, I love to cook, work out, and spend time with loved ones My passion is to help motivate young women in tech like me, to stand out and become confident within a male-dominated field. In conclusion, I am looking forward to working on this project with my counterparts and gaining the opportunity to learn more about the Cyber Security Field.

Joshua Taylor (Fall 2023)

Hello, my name is Joshua Taylor. I am a senior at South Carolina State University currently majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. Throughout my last couple of years here as a student, I have stepped up as a leader to encourage and guide my fellow computer science students Through my efforts, I landed an apprenticeship at Internet Technologies as a software engineering apprentice. I am enjoying my software engineering journey and am looking forward to continuing down the path of cybersecurity.

Xavier White (Fall 2023)

Hello, my name is Xavier White. I am a Computer Science major with a GPA of 3.1 attending South Carolina State University. Things I like to do in my free time are play basketball, lift weights, playing video games, and listening to music. Some of my skills in programming are JavaScript and Python. I am a critical thinker, a leader, and good work ethic. During this research project I hope to gain more knowledge in the field of Cybersecurity and become more well-rounded in the world of computers.

Shani Walker (Fall 2023)

My name is Shani Walker. I'm a junior CS major at South Carolina State University. I'm from Augusta, GA. I'm a part of the SCSU cheerleading team and D.O.L.L.S. I gained my interest in computer science in my junior year of high school because of the diversity the industry has Studying CS here at SCSU I'm able to expand my interest by networking and be a part of different projects and internships.

Samarge Snow (Fall 2023)

I'm Samarge Snow, a passionate computer science student specializing in Cyber Security and a senior at South Carolina State University. My academic journey revolves around the exciting realms of Artificial Intelligence and safeguarding digital landscapes from cyber threats. Beyond my studies, indulge in a variety of hobbies that fuel my curiosity and creativity. Whether it's building project cars engaging in insightful conversations, exploring new places, or savoring delicious cuisine, I find joy in the diverse experiences life has to offer. I'm driven by the belief that one day, the knowledge and skills I'm acquiring will be applied in real-life situations, making the digital world safer and more intelligent. I'm not just here to learn; I'm here to contribute and make a difference in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity and Al. Join me on my quest to enhance digital security and push the boundaries of what's possible in technology.

Dierra Haynes (Fall 2023)

My name is Dierra Haynes and I attend South Carolina State University. My major is Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity and my gpa is a 3.9. This summer, I completed an internship at the Savannah River Site with their cybersecurity team. I currently take part in an apprenticeship with their software development team as well. My skills include Java, React Javascript, Python, and Computer Forensics. My strengths are listening, attention to detail. communication, teamwork, and leadership. My interests in Cybersecurity and Computer Science are fueled by my love for computers, how they work, and the multitude of things they can do. By partaking in this project, I am given the opportunity to expand my knowledge and put my skills to the test to better and prepare myself for future endeavors.  

Nolan Pelino (Fall 2023)

My Name is Nolan Pelino and I am a senior here at the University of South Carolina. I am majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity Operations, which is a passion of mine. Previously, I had interned in the cyberspace, specifically in access management and information security. I am extremely excited to begin working on this ONR project and build upon my network infrastructure and cybersecurity knowledge. 

Jacob Sherer (Fall 2023)

My name is Jacob Sherer, and I'm from Columbia, SC. I am a sophomore in the Honors College, majoring in Integrated Information Technology with 2 minors in Computer Science and Business Administration. I am currently employed by the CEC as an Undergraduate IT Technician and have always been interested in computers and related technologies. I grew a love for the fields of networking and cybersecurity through a series of classes in high school and since then I have just wanted to learn more. I am also in a leadership position in our Cybersecurity club where we facilitate learning of various cybersecurity concepts. The ONR project is the perfect opportunity to learn more about both networking and cybersecurity while also gaining valuable experience that can help my future career endeavors. 

Matthew Kleeman (Fall 2023)

My name is Matthew Kleeman, and I am a Senior at the University of South Carolina, and I will be graduating in 2024. I am from Summerville, SC, and I have lived there my entire life. I am currently majoring in Integrated Information Technology with a minor in business administration. I am interested in cybersecurity because it is an ever-changing field and there is so much to learn in this field. This past summer I did a Naval Research Enterprise Internship at Naval information Warfare Center - Atlantic (NIWC). During my internship i provided cyber defense and protection for the DHA Med-COl Network, DHA Cyber Operations Center and MHS GENESIS Electronic Health Record (EH]. 

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Favour Agho (Fall 2023)

My name is Favour Agho, an undergraduate student in my third year at the University of South Carolina. I'm majoring in Integrated Information Technology. Outside of class, I'm interested in gammon and sports. I applied for the ONR project to enhance my IT skills and knowledge. I'm really looking forward to working with others and gaining new experiences. 

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Chasey Kilcrease (Fall 2023)

My name is Chasey Kilcrease, and I am from Lexington, South Carolina. I am currently a junior here at the University of South Carolina and will be graduating in December of 2024. I am an Integrated Information Technology major with a love for cybersecurity. Since May 2022, I have been a cybersecurity intern for AgFirst Farm Credit Bank. Throughout my internship, I created simulated phishing campaigns, analyzed security logs, and distributed security awareness content. I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to be on the ONR team, and I can't wait to expand my cybersecurity knowledge. 

Yousef Afshar (Fall 2023)

Hello my name is Yousef Afshar, and I am a senior IIT major at USC. I am from Fort Mill, SC and previously have worked in IT and networking roles at Lexington School District One in Lexington, SC as well as BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. I have always been passionate about network engineering and cybersecurity as they are two areas that are becoming increasingly important as we go through numerous changes in the industry currently. I look forwards to working with the ONR team on this project and being able to expand my knowledge base as I progress in my career.  

Isabella Myer (Summer 2023)

Hello, my name is Isabella Myer, and I am a rising junior at the University of South Carolina, and I will be graduating in 2025. I am from Charlotte, NC, and I have lived here my entire life. I am currently majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Criminal Justice. I am interested in cybersecurity because it is an ever-changing field and there is so much to learn in this field. Learning network security is a crucial step to figuring out what path you would like to follow in the cyber world. I am extremely thankful for this opportunity with the ONR research team to expand my knowledge on cybersecurity and to make new connections. I cannot wait to work for the ONR team!

Anaia Prather (Summer 2022)
 

My name is Anaia Prather and I am senior majoring in Integrated Information Technology and minoring in Business Administration. I have an expected graduation date in December of 2022 and I am looking to get a career in cybersecurity. My interest began in my first networking class and I grew to love the curriculum once I began my advanced networking classes. I am hoping to further my knowledge and experience with this subject through the ONR project. I can’t wait to work with my fellow classmates and ONR team this summer!

Camila Pereira (Summer 2022)
 

My name is Camila Pereira and I am a rising senior from the suburbs of Chicago. I am majoring in Integrated Information Technology and minoring in Business Administration, and I plan to graduate in May 2023 with Leadership Distinction in Professional and Civic Engagement. I recently completed the Advanced Networking course where I was introduced to security concepts while working with a Palo Alto firewall in the university's cyber-infrastructure lab. This course further piqued my interest in cybersecurity and made me want to apply to the ONR project. I am very excited to work alongside the team to expand my knowledge in security topics that are increasingly important in our world!

Sean Batchelder (Summer 2022)
 

Hello, my name is Sean Batchelder and I am currently a junior majoring in information technology at USC Columbia. I have lived in the Columbia area my entire life. I found cybersecurity to be extremely interesting as well as essential to many industries that rely on technology. After going through the advanced networking course I have found there to be many potential areas that interest me, such as network security and penetration testing. I am excited to be working with ONR to further my skillset in such a rapidly developing field within technology.

Caroline Boozer (Summer 2022)
 

My name is Caroline Boozer, I am from a small town near Greenville, SC. I am currently pursuing two degrees, Computer Science and Cyber Intelligence, at the University of South Carolina, while also completing a specialization certificate in Cybersecurity. I also work for the UofSC Palmetto College IT department. I believe this combination will provide me with a strong foundation in different backgrounds to proactively use cyber forensics and techniques, to go on the offensive and make the world a safer place. As a youth living overseas, I was introduced early on to ransomware attacks like WannaCry. I have grown up with a constant reminder of the threats to our security; in particular regarding the cyber domain. This is the motivation for my choice of computer science, specifically, with an interest in cybersecurity. We must also understand how our world thinks and operates regarding these cyber issues which is why I have recently added a second degree in Cyber Intelligence. Take a passion and add an education, that is my idea of a career. Without passion, it is just a job! I am excited to participate in the ONR project to gain more practical experience and knowledge about cybersecurity by learning from others

Andrew Clements (Spring 2022)
 

Andrew Clements grew up in Spartanburg, South Carolina and graduated from Spartanburg High School in 2000. He is married to Selena Clements his wife of 19 years, and they have three children Benjamin (12years-ols), Samuel (6 years-old), and Nathaniel (6 years-old). He enlisted in the U.S. Army after his junior year of high school and served from 1999 to 2016. After completing One Station Unit Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri to be a Combat Engineer, he was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. HE also attended school for logistics at Fort Lee, Virginia and recruiting at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He was deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from January 2004 to March 2005 and November 2005 to November 2006 and to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from June 2012 to February 2013. Andrew retired from the U.S. Army as a Staff Sergeant in 2016. After retiring from the U.S. Army, he attended Midlands Technical College and graduated in June 2019 with an Associates of Science. He is now a student at the University of South Carolina and will graduate in December 2022 with Bachelor of Science in Integrated Information Technology. He wants to join a company after graduation to design, implement, and secure computer networks.

Mark-Anthony Box (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Mark-Anthony Box and I'm from Greenville in the upstate. I'm a sophomore here at UofSC majoring in Integrated Information Technology with the intent to minor in Japanese. After graduation I plan on enlisting in the Navy and going for a cyber security position, as such both cyber security and networking have quickly become areas of significant importance to my studies.
I'm am thankful for being given the opportunity to work with other enthusiastic individuals as we further our knowledge as part of the ONR project.

Avery Schiro (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Avery Schiro, and I am from Staten Island, New York. I am a Junior here at the University of South Carolina and I am perusing my bachelor’s in integrated information technology with a mass communications minor. I plan to graduate May 2023. I used to be a visual communications major and have held a previous public relations internship in Manhattan. I switched into IIT sophomore year and have loved it ever since.
I am excited to work on the ONR project to expand my knowledge of cyber security and sharpen my skill set.

Talha Gill (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Talha Gill, and I am from Lexington, SC. I am currently a Senior in Integrated Information Technology at the University of South Carolina (UofSC). I am graduating this December 2022. I was originally on a pre-med track, but always had a love for technology. So, when the pandemic hit, it was a wake-up call for me to switch to IT. So, coming back to why I want to be part of this ONR project. Well, I took a class last semester Advance Networking, and enjoyed learning about the networking/security part of IT. So, when I heard about this opportunity, I jumped on it to help me further develop my networking skills and cybersecurity knowledge.

Samuel Dao (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Samuel Dao and I'm from Greenville, South Carolina. I am currently a sophomore pursing a bachelor's degree in Integrated Information Technology and a minor in Computer Science.
I am currently employed as an Undergraduate IT Technician for the CEC, and I am looking to further expand my knowledge in networking and cybersecurity.

The ONR project is the perfect opportunity for me to gain practical experience and to develop my cybersecurity skills.

Timothy Dao (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Timothy Dao, I'm a senior at the University of South Carolina pursuing a bachelor's in Integrated Information Technology and I plan to graduate this semester in May. I am originally from Greenville, South Carolina and came here in 2018 as a Nursing Major before changing to Information Technology. I interned this past summer and currently work at the University with the Division of Information Technology's network operations department doing break fix and service requests. I applied to the ONR project to develop my skills and I think that this project is a great opportunity to learn more about networking and security.

Gabriella Pinto (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Gabriella Pinto, and I am from Pittstown, New Jersey. I am currently a junior majoring in Integrated Information Technology and minoring in Business Management and Applied Computing at the University of South Carolina. At UofSC, I am the president of Women in Computing and the vice president of the Association for Information Systems.
Given the increased acceleration into the cloud, cybersecurity has become essential in preventing the attacks on businesses and individuals all around the world. I am excited to work together to research and deepen my understanding of ways in which we can best protect organizations from cyber threats.

Samuel Kelley (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Samuel Kelley, and I am a junior expecting to graduate a semester early in Integrated Information technology here at UofSC. I have been interested in technology for a long as I can remember building PC’s, tinkering with electronics, etc. I am extremely excited and thankful about the experience and knowledge I will gain from being apart of this project. Hopefully this will open future doors within cyber security or networking and allow me to be more prepared for the real world.

Dillon Barnhardt (Spring 2022)
 

My name is Dillon Barnhardt, I am a sophomore at the University of South Carolina in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Information Technology. I am currently in the South Carolina Army National Guard as a Nodal System Operator-Maintainer. I have also, been an IT Technician at Healthcare, SC LLC since April 2020 which I have been responsible for the IT department for two enterprise mattress manufacture buildings.
I am excited for the opportunity to be part of the ONR research to both gain experience with Palo Alto firewall and to bring a positive contribution to the ORN project.

David Williams (Spring 2022)
 

I am a Senior finishing up my last semester in Integrated Information Technology. An interesting fact is I first began pursuing my degree at USC in 2001, then life happened. I joined the NC Army National Guard in 2018 and deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (Spartan Shield) December of 2019. I returned from deployment in September of 2020 and immediately returned to school to complete my degree. I hold Certifications in A+, Security+, and Cyber Security Analyst+ from CompTIA. I am a father of three children and am still active in the NC Army National Guard. I am currently pursuing opportunities in the Cyber Security Field and aspire to be a Chief Information Security Officer within the next five years.

Tucker Baron (Fall 2021, Spring 2022)
 

My name is Tucker Baron. I am from Beaufort, South Carolina. I am an Army ROTC cadet wanting to go into Cyber. I am a cyber intelligence major at the University of South Carolina.


I am participating in this research to help prepare me for working in cyber. I feel that this project will help me become a better cyber officer.

Jeremy Gill (Fall 2021)
 

My name is Jeremy Gill, and I am a Sophomore at the University of South Carolina in pursuit of my second degree as an Integrated Information Technology major. I served in the United States Air Force from 2013 – 2020 as a Cybertransport Technician (3D172).

During my enlistment, I contributed to the mission on the Korean Peninsula at Osan Air Base, missions Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel at Shaw Air Force Base and Al Udeid Air Base, and Sheppard Air Force Base as an instructor. Throughout my enlistment I have learned how to adapt and be flexible with various networking technologies. I am excited to continue to learn more about networking and cybersecurity.

Christian Tsirlis (Spring 2021, Fall 2021)
 

My name is Christian Tsirlis, I am from Emerald Else, North Carolina. I am currently a NROTC Marine Option student at the University of South Carolina and I am studying Cyber Intelligence.

I chose to apply for ONR to further my knowledge in networks in relation to cybersecurity. I have worked on this project in the past and it was a great learning experience. I am excited to continue to learn and grow in this research opportunity.

Cameron McDuffie (Spring 2022, Fall 2021)
 

My name is Cameron McDuffie and I'm from Sumter, South Carolina. I am a sophomore pursuing a bachelor's degree in Integrated Information Technology and plan to graduate in May 2024. I have some IT experience from working at a computer repair shop and the CEC help desk but want to further expand my networking and cybersecurity knowledge. I feel that participating in this research program will help me reach that goal.
I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the ONR project last semester, and look forward to another few months of research. This project has greatly increased my knowledge and awareness of modern cybersecurity attacks and mitigation strategies. I believe that working with these cutting-edge network appliances will not only further increase my knowledge, but better my chances of job opportunities in the future.

Jesse Leonard (Fall 2021)
 

My name is Jesse Leonard, and I am from Irmo, South Carolina. I am a senior studying Integrated Information Technology and expect to graduate in May of 2022. I have interned at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, where I worked in infrastructure deployment.


I applied to work on the ONR project because it will allow me to enhance my cybersecurity skills and knowledge. I'm excited about the opportunity to learn as much as I can.

Brad Wilson (Spring 2021, Fall 2021)
 

My name is Brad Wilson, and I am from Beech Island, South Carolina. I am a senior at the University of South Carolina, studying Integrated Information Technology, on track to graduate in May 2022. I have interned at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions for the past two summers as an IT Customer Service Specialist with Computer Accounts, Mobility, and Multi-Factor Authentication, gaining tangible experience in those areas.

I choose to apply for ONR to further hone my networking skills and acquire training in cybersecurity. I am thrilled to be working on this project again and will utilize every opportunity to absorb as much knowledge as I can.

Hannah Gardner (Fall 2021)
 

My name is Hannah Gardner, and I am currently a 3rd year Integrated Information Technology student at the University of South Carolina. I am the president of AITP and a committee chair for the Carolina Global Scholars program. I am also studying Japanese, and I am hoping to study abroad in Japan prior to graduation.

I’m very excited for the opportunity to work on the ONR project and gain experience in cyber security.

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Collins Khuu (Fall 2021)
 

My name is Collins Khuu and I am a third-year Integrated Information Technology major at the University of South Carolina. I am originally from Greenville, SC. Outside of the classroom, I am involved in the Vietnamese Student Association at UofSC.

I applied to the ONR project to further develop my networking skills and cybersecurity knowledge. I am excited to work on this project alongside my peers.

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Nathan Long (Spring 2021)
 

My name is Nathan Long I am a Senior at the University of South Carolina, and I am from Columbia South Carolina. I am on my way to graduate in the spring of 2021 with a Integrated Information Technology Major. I developed a love for research of Cyber Security during my summer internship with AIG where I was an intern on the Cyber Threat Intelligence floor. My hope for the future is to continue pursuing a career in cybersecurity and be part of a red team at a company. I am excited to get some real world experience with cybersecurity and get to work along side students to accomplish this goal.

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Zachary Fowler (Spring 2021)
 

My name is Zach Fowler, and I am from Charleston, South Carolina. I am currently a fifth year Integrated Information Technology student graduating in May of 2021. I originally came to South Carolina as an Exercise Science major with hopes of making it to dental school, but later on found that it was not the right fit for me. I switched into the IT program my junior year and have enjoyed it ever since.

I am excited to work on this project because it will allow me to hone my skills in cybersecurity, which is a career path I am most interested in.

Bryson Livingston (Spring 2021)
 

My name is Bryson Livingston, and I am a senior at the University of South Carolina pursuing a degree in Integrated Information Technology. I was born in Florence, South Carolina, and spent most of my life there, but I also lived in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for almost eight years. This semester is my last full-time semester here at USC as I will be completing my internship requirement during the summer then graduating in August. My internship will be at Sonoco in Hartsville, South Carolina, where I will be working in the Client Services IT division. My focus within information technology is networking. I was able to gain experience working with next-generation firewalls on the Palo Alto platform last semester, and I am excited to have the opportunity to continue to develop my cybersecurity skills through the ONR project.

Ty Love-Baker (Spring 2021)
 

My name is Ty Love-Baker and I am a senior at the University of South Carolina studying Integrated Information Technology. I am from Washington, D.C. and I began my degree in the fall semester, 2017. I recently graduated from the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, in Quantico, VA, where I found an interest for Cyber Warfare. I’m very interested in the operation, vulnerabilities and threats that involve Cyber Warfare. I’m looking forward to learning more about these concepts, and to meeting new people who are also participating in the research project.

Kyle Radzak (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Kyle Radzak and I am a Senior at the University of South Carolina studying Integrated Information Technology with a minor in Geography. I am from Inman, SC and I started pursuing my IT degree in the fall of 2017 with the intention of developing my skills in Networking and delving further into cyber security. I am currently a Resident Mentor on campus and have been for the past 3 years. I worked this past summer with Lowe’s Companies, Inc. where I helped analyze and tier third-party risk vendors for the cyber security division in the company. I am very excited to be a part of this project and it will be a great way to develop my skills in networking alongside cyber security. I hope to use this in future for my career or other personal endeavors.

Ryan Tallent (Fall 2020, Spring 2021)
 

Ryan Tallent is currently an Integrated Information Technology Major, at the University of South Carolina – Columbia. He is an aspiring cyber security professional. He is working to become an expert in cyber security, cyber warfare, and digital forensics. He is also interested in data science and software engineering. He is building a knowledge base and skill set in the operation, vulnerabilities, threat detection, prevention and mitigation in computer systems, networks, and data systems. He grew up in Cedar City, UT and currently lives in West Columbia, SC. He is the owner and operator of Just Grindin’ Stump Grinding Service. In his former role as a Gunner’s Mate Second Class in the US Navy, he deployed with the Constellation Battle Group, in 2003, is support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Josue Hernandez (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Josue Hernandez. I am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in Integrated Information Technology. I am currently a senior and am finishing my last semester at the University of South Carolina. I am from Lexington, SC, and have been a Gamecock all my life. I am very interested in expanding my knowledge and skills in cyber security. I am motivated by the fact that my talents are very in demand and could lead to a great job to provide for my family. I am also interested in cyber security since our world is so connected. There is so much risk in everything we do now, and someone must protect us. I am looking forward to working on my project and to learn from all the brilliant people participating in the research.

Lauren Waddell (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Lauren Waddell. As a native to Irmo, South Carolina, I always knew I would attend the flagship university of the state. As such, I’m currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Information Technology at the University of South Carolina. After completing classes such as IT Security for Managers (ITEC 493) and Cybersecurity Operations (ITEC 390), I became motivated to learn more about cybersecurity – not only because it’s a growing field with overwhelming opportunities, but also because it is of utmost importance in our technological environment. With more operations becoming increasingly digitized, it’s extremely important that our data is protected to the highest standards.

Christopher Ngo (Fall 2020)
 

Cadet Christopher Q. Ngo enlisted in the Army on February 7, 2018 in the Army Reserves . He conducted Basic Combat Training in Charlie Company 2nd Battalion 10th Infantry Regiment. Cadet Ngo later then completed 23 weeks of Advance Individual Training as an Distinguished Honor Graduate and was awarded the MOS of 25B, Information Technology Specialist. Cadet Ngo is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems at The University of South Carolina. Cadet Ngo is also in the Army ROTC Program at The University of South Carolina since 2019 and is in the Simultaneous Membership Program. His goal after his time at the University of South Carolina is to commission as a Second Lieutenant Cyber Operations Officer. Christopher Ngo is also involved in his local community, serving as a volunteer baseball coach, camp counselor, teaches leadership skills for marching band in his hometown Hilton Head Island, SC.

Jack Sadle (Fall 2020, Spring 2021)
 

My name is Jack Sadle. I am a cadet at the University of South Carolina Army ROTC Gamecock Battalion. I have been enlisted in the US Army Signal Corps as a 25B Information Technology Specialist since 2017. I am majoring in Integrated Information Technology with a minor in Military Science and will pursue a career as an officer in the US Army Signal Corps upon completion of my bachelor’s degree. During my time at the University of South Carolina I have helped to establish the USC Army ROTC Cyber Team and have worked for the USC Division of Information Technology in the Networking and Desktop Support departments. Throughout my career as an IT professional and as a soldier I have learned to identify how valuable and vulnerable data security can be. The future of warfare has as much to do with bits and bytes as it does with bombs and bullets. I am grateful for this opportunity to make myself a more well-rounded leader in the cyber realm.

Dakota McDaniels (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Dakota McDaniels and I am currently a senior in their last semester of an Integrated Information Technology bachelor’s degree. I am from Chapin, SC but have move all around the states due my dad’s time in the Army. In my early high school days, I took a networking/cybersecurity class and I was hooked on the two fields ever since. My growing passion in them has led me to have two internships in them and allowed me to work towards a career in them for over 6 years now. When I heard about this project I was extremely interested. I get the opportunity to do research on various topics that expand my knowledge base, as well as leading the effort to create a minor for the field that I hope others are as passionate about as I am.

Matthew Driver (Fall 2020, Spring 2021)
 

My name is Matthew Driver. I am currently a Senior in the integrated Information technology program working into cyber intelligence. I intend to graduate in pursuit of my master’s in information systems management at Harvard. I have been in the military for 7 years, one of which I was deployed to Syria. Being in the military has taught me the importance of communication and the need to be resilient at any moment. Having gained the versatility throughout my career, I have learned that establishing an inspirational environment will lead to the success of any project you are assigned. I am ecstatic to take on the ONR project and humbled for the acceptance and plan to have an immense impact to better this generations cyber.

Keegan Sprankle (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Keegan Sprankle and I am originally from Irmo, SC. I am a senior IIT major looking to expand my repertoire in Cyber Security.

My ultimate goal is to work as a penetration tester for a cyber security firm.

I currently work as an undergraduate research assistant for UofSC's IIT department focusing on reviewing and assessing educational lab documentation for Software Defined Networking, Border Gateway Protocol, Open vSwitch, and OSPF.

Brian Nelson (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Brian Nelson and I am currently a Senior Integrated Information Technology Major at the University of South Carolina.

I am married and have a 12-year-old son and my experience varies between commercial, military, and government positions. I have worked as a Sys. Admin for 9-1-1 systems, a Business Development Manager, and currently as a Senior Security Analyst.

I am excited to increase my technical acumen through this experience and be a part of a future minor offered by UofSC.

Nathan Bohmer (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Nathan Bohmer. I am a Senior Integrated Information Technology Student here at the University of South Carolina (UofSC). I am graduating this December 2020. I have always found an interest in computing. I originally started at UofSC in mechanical engineering but found that it was not the right fit. I learned about the IT major here and knew that this is what I wanted my degree in. After taking IT Security for Managers (ITEC 493) and a Computer Science elective (CSCE 201) in cyber security, I knew that I wanted to pursue security. My motivation for pursuing security is knowing that there is a growing need for security professionals, and that my work can help to make the digital world a safer place. Making the world a better place is crucial to me, and what better way to do so than with cyber security.

Brendan Curran (Fall 2020)
 

My name is Brendan Curran and I am a Senior at the University of South Carolina studying Computer Science.

I am also in the Gamecock ROTC battalion where I am training to be a US Army officer.

I am from Odenton, MD and have been pursuing my degree since the fall of 2017. I am excited to expand my knowledge of cyber security working on this project.