Buffalo, NY - Canisius University is proud to announce that Matt Gracie, interim director of the graduate program in cybersecurity, has been named Security Leader of the Year at the 25th annual BETAS (Buffalo Emerging Technology Awards Showcase). The BETAS celebrate excellence and innovation across Western New York's technology community. This year's event recognized leaders and organizations shaping the future of the region's tech ecosystem. Gracie was honored for his outstanding contributions to cybersecurity education, defense and community engagement.
In addition to serving as interim director of cybersecurity, Gracie is an adjunct professor in the program, teaching courses on network security, cybersecurity operations and ethical hacking. In his leadership role at the university, he mentors graduate students, supports research initiatives and assists with program recruitment and faculty development.
Beyond Canisius, Gracie is a senior engineer with Security Onion Solutions, where he specializes in defensive security operations and professional services. With more than 15 years of blue team experience across higher education, manufacturing, financial services and healthcare, Gracie is recognized as a thought leader in cyber defense practices and operational security.
He also plays an active role in strengthening the region's cybersecurity community. Gracie is lead organizer of Infosec 716, a monthly meetup for security professionals and enthusiasts, and BSides Buffalo, a regional information security conference that promotes collaboration and knowledge-sharing among practitioners.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
