CNMI Educator Dr. Riya Nathrani Named 2026 National Cybersecurity Educator of the Year

Dr. Riya Nathrani, Instructional Technology Coach for the CNMI Public School System, has been named the 2026 Cybersecurity Educator of the Year, a national recognition honoring educators who are advancing cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and emerging technology education through innovative teaching, professional learning, and expanded student access to these critical fields.

The award recognizes educational leaders across the United States who are preparing students and communities to navigate an increasingly digital world while promoting responsible, ethical, and secure technology use. For Dr. Nathrani, the recognition highlights the growing impact of cybersecurity education in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the importance of ensuring that students in geographically remote communities have access to the same opportunities as their peers nationwide.

"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and to represent the CNMI on the national stage," said Dr. Nathrani. "This award is dedicated to the collective efforts of our educators, students, families, and community members who are committed to creating safe, responsible, and innovative learning environments. Every student deserves the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate, protect, and shape our digital world."

Over the past several years, Dr. Nathrani has led cybersecurity, digital citizenship, and technology workshops and trainings that have reached thousands of students, educators, school staff, and families throughout the CNMI. Her work has focused on helping learners understand online safety, cybersecurity awareness, responsible technology use, artificial intelligence, and digital wellbeing.

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, Dr. Nathrani believes cybersecurity education is an essential life skill. "Cybersecurity is about empowering people to make informed decisions, recognize risks, safeguard their information, and participate responsibly in an increasingly connected world. As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that students and adults can use technology effectively, safely, and ethically."

The award also underscores the importance of expanding access to high-quality technology education for underserved and underrepresented communities. Through professional development opportunities, student programs, and advocacy efforts, Dr. Nathrani has worked to bridge digital divides and ensure that students and teachers in the CNMI have opportunities to engage with cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

Dr. Nathrani facilitated two sessions at the conference in Nevada, where she was recognized with the national award. Her first session, Cybersecurity Skills in Action, focused on empowering educators to build a culture of cyber readiness in their classrooms, schools, and communities. Her second session, presented in partnership with Intel, highlighted the Skills for Innovation Starter Pack Lessons, a collection of free instructional resources available to educators. As technology continues to transform education and the workforce, the session emphasized the importance of equipping students with essential future-ready skills, including creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Dr. Nathrani expressed gratitude to national cybersecurity organizations for the recognition and reaffirmed her commitment to advancing cybersecurity education and digital literacy for future generations. "This recognition inspires me to continue advocating for equitable access to technology education and to help prepare learners for the opportunities and challenges of the future," she said.