ODU’s new institute to strengthen national security through research, technology solutions, leaders say

June 23, 2026 - 05:30

Old Dominion University has unveiled a new institute aimed at strengthening national security through advanced research and technology solutions, according to university leaders. The initiative will leverage the expertise of ODU faculty and deepen existing partnerships between the university and security agencies in the Hampton Roads region.

The institute is designed to address evolving threats by combining academic research with practical applications. Officials say it will focus on areas such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and defense technology, providing a hub for collaboration between researchers, students, and local security professionals. Hampton Roads is home to a dense concentration of military and intelligence operations, making the partnership a natural fit.

Faculty members will work directly with agencies to develop tools and strategies that can be deployed in the field. The institute also aims to train the next generation of security experts, offering students hands-on experience with real-world problems. Leaders emphasized that the effort is not just about technology but also about building a resilient workforce.

By centralizing these efforts, ODU hopes to become a key player in national security innovation. The institute is expected to attract funding and talent, further solidifying the university's role in protecting the country's interests. No specific timeline for projects was announced, but the first collaborations are already underway.