Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John’s University has announced a new partnership with the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) New York Field Office to establish the Institute for Border Security and Intelligence Studies. This initiative aims to equip future homeland security professionals with essential skills and knowledge. The institute will be located at The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies.

On April 30, representatives from both organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding at St. Augustine Hall, near the university's Homeland Security Simulation Lab and Sanford Family Cyber Security Lab. The collaboration focuses on developing a training program that addresses intelligence challenges for CBP employees while offering students professional development opportunities in this evolving field.

Notable attendees from St. John’s included Simon G. Møller, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs; Luca Iandoli, Ph.D., Dean of the Collins College of Professional Studies; and Keith Cozine, Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security.

Representing CBP were alumni Frank Russo ’95SVC, Director of Field Operations, and Sal Ingrassia ’92SVC, Port Director at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

“Training prepares people for the known, but education prepares people for the unknown,” said Dr. Cozine, emphasizing the importance of education in addressing unforeseen challenges faced by CBP officers daily.

St. John’s offers various degrees in cybersecurity and homeland security fields, including Bachelor’s degrees in Cyber Security Systems and Homeland Security, Master’s degrees in related areas, dual degree programs, and a doctoral degree in Homeland Security.

The partnership will allow St. John’s students access to CBP's New York Field Office for real-time scenario experience, enhancing their employability post-graduation. CBP will contribute border security experts as guest speakers and mentors while participating in faculty advisory roles.

Drs. Iandoli and Møller believe this agreement will significantly enhance student opportunities at St. John’s University.

“The creation of this institute produces many remarkable results,” stated Dean Iandoli regarding the benefits to students through industry partnerships that advance knowledge in critical domains vital to national security.

“All universities educate,” added Dr. Møller, “The great universities have partnerships like the one we are signing today that allow students to experience real-world situations and learn from experts in their fields.”