On June 20, Metro State University proudly welcomed 18 international cybersecurity professionals from 11 countries as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)—the U.S. Department of State’s flagship professional exchange initiative. The visit was coordinated by Global Minnesota, whose mission is to connect Minnesotans with the world through international exchange and engagement.
The distinguished delegation included cyber experts from Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand, representing government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector organizations. Their visit centered on exploring Minnesota’s innovative and collaborative approach to cyber resilience.
Dr. Faisal Kaleem, professor and director of Metro State’s Cybersecurity program, presented the university’s academic offerings, applied research initiatives, and workforce development strategies. He emphasized Metro State’s role in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and its alignment with national defense and infrastructure protection priorities.
“The visitors were truly impressed with Metro State’s programs, initiatives, and capabilities,” said Dr. Kaleem. “They were especially interested in how we fit into the broader Minnesota Security Ecosystem and contribute at the national level.”
Joining the program were two distinguished leaders in Minnesota’s cybersecurity and national security space:
- Bill Harper, chair of the Minnesota National Security Ecosystem (MN-NS-ECO), shared how the ecosystem brings together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, military, healthcare, and technology sectors. He discussed its mission to accelerate innovation, protect critical infrastructure, and grow a diverse and skilled talent pipeline across multiple security domains—not just cybersecurity. Learn more at www.natsecmn.org
- Tim Herman, president of the InfraGard Minnesota Chapter, spoke on the importance of trusted public-private partnerships and how InfraGard works with the FBI to defend against cyber threats through proactive information sharing and community engagement.
The delegation was highly engaged throughout the visit, asking thoughtful questions and expressing strong interest in future international collaborations on cybersecurity strategy, education, and policy. The day concluded with dynamic discussions that emphasized the global nature of cyber threats and the shared importance of cross-border cooperation and capacity building.
Metro State extends sincere thanks to Global Minnesota, especially Karen Baumgaertner, and the IVLP liaisons (Emalyn Chapman, Kate English, Donna Kovacheva, and Homayun Safi) for organizing this meaningful visit. Special thanks as well to Alex Hepp, Darin Linse, and Andrew R. Johnson for their contributions to the day’s success.
This visit exemplifies Metro State’s commitment to building global connections and fostering a secure, well-prepared cyber workforce—right here in Minnesota.