Harding Receives $1.5M State Grant to Expand Digital Forensics Lab

SEARCY, Ark. (Nov. 25, 2024) — Harding University is pioneering cybersecurity and criminal defense workforce development through a $1.5 million grant awarded from the state to the University’s digital forensics lab. In addition to a separate donation from LeadsOnline awarded late last spring, this funding will be used to further expand lab staff and access to state-of-the-art forensic machines and systems. As the only higher-education lab of its kind in Arkansas, this facility is uniquely primed to offer students hands-on training and career development, paving the way for direct entry into a career in digital forensics.

Launched in the Fall 2024 semester, Harding's digital forensics lab is a state-of-the-art training center that teaches cybersecurity, criminal justice, forensic science and computer science students how to recover, analyze and preserve evidence from mobile devices, often supporting local law enforcement in providing critical insights for legal proceedings and cybersecurity efforts. Staffed by skilled instructors, including local and federal law enforcement officers, the facility is one of just a handful of university-based labs in the U.S. that provide digital forensic services to law enforcement. 

“Through these resources, we can equip our students with cutting-edge tools and unparalleled training opportunities preparing the next generation of professionals to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in law enforcement and digital security,” said Dr. Allen Frazier, dean of the Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration. “The impact of this program will be felt not only in Arkansas but across the nation as our graduates go on to help serve and protect.”

The award, which marks the second largest grant in Harding's history, is part of $48 million in training grants announced by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Nov. 14. Distributed through the Higher Industry Readiness through Educational Development program administered by the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the Arkansas Division of Higher Education, the grants support educational efforts across the state that are aligned with Arkansas' workforce strategy goals. 

"This generous grant will allow us to greatly expand the capabilities of our digital forensics lab, allowing more students to receive hands-on training in this vital field," said Dr. Mike Williams, president of Harding University. "Led by some of the region's best forensic minds, the lab prepares Harding students for success in careers that are not only in high demand and personally rewarding but also directly support local law enforcement."   

For more information about Harding University's digital forensics lab, visit this link. 

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