News — Lousindy Mitton, a graduate student in the University of West Florida’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, is the first student in the University’s history to be awarded the prestigious Foreign Affairs Information Technology Fellowship. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by The Washington Center, this highly competitive fellowship prepares future leaders to leverage technology in advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives. Through this program, Mitton will have the opportunity to make a global impact by contributing to technological innovation and diplomacy.
“I am excited to share an incredible milestone that reflects the University of West Florida’s commitment to empowering students to achieve remarkable success and make meaningful contributions to the world,” Mitton said.
Mitton has worked diligently to combine academic excellence with professional development. She earned her bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from Miami Dade College before deciding to pursue her master’s in cybersecurity from UWF — a seamless transition thanks to a that allows MDC cybersecurity graduates to gain express admission into UWF’s graduate program, creating a clear pathway for students to further their education and meet the growing workforce demand in Florida’s cybersecurity industry.
Her journey has been shaped by earning industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA Network+, Security+, ITF+ and Project+, as well as Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) and Salesforce Administrator. These certifications, coupled with the world-class cybersecurity education she’s received at UWF, have equipped Mitton to excel in this prestigious program and beyond.
“Lousindy had one of the top three highest grades in my class; however, it wasn’t just her grades that impressed me but her positive attitude, enthusiasm to understand, and willingness to help her fellow classmates,” said Renee Carnley, adjunct professor in UWF’s computer science department. “The true A student is the one who stumbles on that challenging project but puts in the effort to overcome whatever difficulties are encountered. Lousindy is that student. She has the skills that will help fill in the job shortage of skilled professionals within the cybersecurity workforce and is an ideal candidate for Foreign Affairs.”
Beyond the classroom, Mitton serves on UWF’s Graduate Student Advisory Board. She has also achieved this success while navigating the challenges of single motherhood, a further testament to her perseverance and determination.
“My story reflects the transformative power of education and the unwavering support I have received from the UWF community,” said Mitton. “It is my hope that this milestone will inspire other UWF students to pursue their dreams, no matter how ambitious they may seem.”
The two-year FAIT fellowship program, which chose 15 recipients for its 2024 cohort (five graduate students and 10 undergraduate students), provides up to $43,500 annually for up to two years of academic funding; stipends, housing and travel allowances for two summer internships — one at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., and one at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad; and personalized mentoring and professional development opportunities. Upon successful completion of the program and the State Department’s entry requirements, fellows will receive an appointment in the Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Technology Officer, where they will complete a five-year commitment.
For more information on UWF’s Master of Science in Cybersecurity, visit .
For more information on UWF’s Center for Cybersecurity, visit .
For more information on the Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship, visit .
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