2026 Cybersecurity SFS Cohort Has a New Name – And AI-Related Approach - NJIT News

The NJIT Secure Computing Initiative has been rebranded as the CyberAICorps® SFS program, focusing on preparing students for cybersecurity challenges in an AI-enabled digital ecosystem. The program, funded by the National Science Foundation, has accepted its first cohort of seven students for fall 2026.

NJIT is one of only 14 colleges nationwide, and the only one in New Jersey, to be accepted into this elite program. The re-designed initiative aims to prepare students to leverage AI for strengthening cybersecurity operations while developing resilient AI systems capable of withstanding evolving cyber threats.

Competitive Selection Process

The program's principal investigators, including computer science department chairman Vincent Oria, worked quickly to recruit students after the grant was awarded in late summer 2026. Despite their impressive credentials, all candidates experienced self-doubt during the application process.

Diverse Backgrounds, Common Goals

The 2026 cohort includes students with varied backgrounds: Sana Anwar, Noureldin Elhelw, Joseph Juchniewicz, Joseph Kane and Carlin Verano will earn M.S. in Cybersecurity and Privacy, while Jesse Gonnerman and Hirad Sharifian will graduate with M.S. in IT Administration and Security.

Despite their diverse experiences—from cybersecurity competitions to athletics and public service—all candidates share a strong desire to serve the country. The selection process evaluated not just academic excellence but also character strength and commitment to public service.

Sharifian, an immigrant and former NCAA Division One swimmer, emphasized how his background shaped his approach to challenges. "Looking back, I think my immigrant background, combined with my experiences in athletics, public service, and technology, have shaped the way I approach challenges and opportunities," he said.

Future in AI Security

Scholarship recipients will complete the program in three years, combining senior year and two years of master's work. The program prepares graduates for positions with agencies including the FBI, DHS, CIA, and NSA, maintaining NJIT's 100% placement rate.

Students bring specific interests to their studies. Anwar wants to explore security challenges in the financial sector, while Verano aims to engineer systems focused on public good. We are depending on AI now to accelerate our work, but there are still security challenges that need to be addressed—especially in the financial sector, Anwar noted.

The program's launch comes as Sharifian and Kane begin their master's studies after graduating in May. For Elhelw, the acceptance marked a turning point: After the interview, my life plan could literally change... At that point, I thought to myself, 'Wow. My life really IS going to change from here on!'