Leadership Transition at COVA CCI: ODU's Daniel Takabi to Take the Helm in July

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The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative Coastal Virginia Node (COVA CCI), hosted by Old Dominion University (ODU), will undergo a leadership change this summer. Daniel Takabi, currently the director of ODU's School of Cybersecurity, will become the director of COVA CCI starting in July. This transition coincides with the current director, Brian Payne, assuming a new role as ODU’s Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs after Austin Agho's departure.

Brian Payne, who has led COVA CCI for the past five years, has significantly contributed to its development and success. His leadership has enhanced regional partnerships and supported cybersecurity workforce development and research collaboration among universities, industry, and government agencies. Payne will begin his new position on July 1, the same day Takabi takes over.

Daniel Takabi is equipped for his new role, with years of experience in cybersecurity education and research. Before his tenure at ODU, he was the founding director of the Information Security and Privacy: Interdisciplinary Research and Education Center at Georgia State University. Takabi, who earned a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, joined ODU as the director of the School of Cybersecurity in August 2023. He now looks forward to leading COVA CCI.

Takabi is enthusiastic about his new position and is committed to advancing the initiative. He plans to enhance existing partnerships and continue the interdisciplinary approach that has defined the initiative. His leadership aims to promote further growth and innovation in cybersecurity at both regional and state levels.