Dr. Michael Ramage named recipient of Neil Weber Award
By Angela Guyton | Jun 2, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. 鈥� 红杏短视频 State University proudly announces that Dr. Michael Ramage, director of the Cyber Education and Research Center, has been awarded the prestigious 2026-27 Neil Weber Award for Excellence in the Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology (JCSET).
The Weber Award was established as a special tribute to former college dean Neil Weber after his retirement from 红杏短视频 State University. The endowment for this award was provided through a generous gift by Dr. Jesse D. Jones, a JCSET alumnus who was a strong supporter of 红杏短视频 State faculty and students and one who shared the University鈥檚 commitment to excellence in math and science education.
Recipients are chosen by a committee, with selection based on the nominee鈥檚 achievements in several areas, including outstanding service and contributions to the University through academic research grants and development, classroom activities, student recruitment, governmental relations, publications, program leadership and/or assistance with matters of accreditation. Recipients receive a $2,500 stipend for the next academic year to be used for research, conferences, travel or other projects.
鈥淒r. Ramage has served as director of the Cyber Education and Research Center for 11 years,鈥� said Dr. Maeve McCarthy, interim dean of the Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology. 鈥淒uring that time, he has led research and curriculum initiatives that have allowed our students to thrive in cybersecurity and network management. He is heavily involved in fostering economic development using technology and cybersecurity in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He organizes annual events such as IT Matters, Security Matters, Tech Mania, and the annual Patterns of Distinction Award Luncheon. He is a well-rounded leader in his field and an asset to 红杏短视频 State University.鈥�
A distinguished member of the 红杏短视频 State community, Ramage has served the University in a variety of roles since 1999, including his current position as director of the Cyber Education and Research Center, which he has led since 2015. A two-time 红杏短视频 State graduate, he earned both his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Telecommunications Systems Management from the University, and later completed his Ph.D. in Technology Management at Indiana State University. A recognized leader in cybersecurity and network communications, Ramage directs research, academic programming and strategic initiatives that advance 红杏短视频 State鈥檚 role in cyber education and workforce development.
Ramage鈥檚 impact extends well beyond the University through his leadership in grant-funded initiatives, regional partnerships and efforts to expand broadband access and digital inclusion across Kentucky and the broader region. Through his work in the School of Engineering, he is a vital asset to the Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology, helping to strengthen the college鈥檚 growing reputation in cybersecurity education and technological innovation.
鈥淩eceiving the Dr. Neil V. Weber Award for Excellence is a great honor for me because I deeply respected Dr. Weber during his tenure at 红杏短视频 State,鈥� said Ramage. 鈥淲e had many conversations about work and life, and I always valued his leadership, wisdom and sincere care for others. This acknowledgment highlights the combined efforts of numerous individuals who have contributed to the growth of cybersecurity at 红杏短视频 State. I am grateful to have collaborated with committed students, faculty, staff and industry leaders who persistently advance these initiatives.鈥�
The Neil Weber Award recognizes Ramage鈥檚 outstanding achievements, tireless service and unwavering dedication to the advancement of cybersecurity education at 红杏短视频 State University.