Seton Hall Students Excel in Global Cybersecurity Challenge

Undergraduate members of Seton Hall’s Cybersecurity Club are receiving recognition
for their strategic application of cybersecurity and diplomatic policies, as showcased
by their top 16 placement in the annual Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge. This unique event, held virtually and in Washington D.C. on March 15-16, 2024, is
designed to provide students from a range of academic disciplines with a deeper understanding
of the policy challenges associated with cyber threats. Part-interactive learning
experience and part-competitive scenario exercise, it challenges teams to respond
to a realistic, evolving, multinational cybersecurity incident.

The Seton Hall “Sea-Wolves” were selected from over 100 global entries, crafting a
standout mock United Nations Advisory Report that earned them one of the 32 spots
in the competition. The team, composed of three undergraduates from the Stillman School
of Business majoring in IT Management — Joseph Lakhman, Tristano DiLiberto, and Alvin
Oliver II — demonstrated effective application of policy and strategy, advancing to
the semi-finals and ultimately securing a top 16 finish. The students received coaching
and mentorship from Cybersecurity Club Founder, Nicole Gizzi, as well as faculty from
the Department of Computer Science, and the club’s faculty advisor, Eric Lopez. 

“Seton Hall University students studying computer science, business, diplomacy, and
law have been participating in the Cyber 9/12 competition since 2022,” explains Lopez.
“This competition requires teamwork, proficiency in various disciplines, and the ability
to process large volumes of information in a short period of time to produce great
results. Despite the increasing complexity of the challenges each year, our students’
foundation in Diplomacy, Cybersecurity, and Policy has enabled them to advance amongst
universities and military academies around the world.” 

Sponsored by the Atlantic Council, the Cyber 9/12 Challenge engages over one thousand
students worldwide and has expanded to include regional competitions across the United
States, as well as in London, Dundee, Geneva, Paris, and Cape Town.

The Cybersecurity Club is one of the many academic programs, events and resources offered by Seton Hall University to shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals,
policymakers, and lawyers and their ability to face complex cyber threats. Any Seton
Hall student interested in learning more about the Club or future competitions is
encouraged to contact Cybersecurity Club President, Sara Bajwa.

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