Rep. Cleaver Presents $1,031,000 Check to Rockhurst University to Expand Cybersecurity and AI Programs

(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined University President Dr. Sandra Cassady, students, and faculty at Rockhurst University to present a ceremonial check for $1,031,000 in federal Community Project Funding secured by Rep. Cleaver to support the expansion of the university’s innovative technology programs, focused on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). This investment will strengthen Rockhurst University’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand careers in rapidly evolving fields, enhance hands-on learning opportunities, and deepen partnerships with local leading organizations in the tech sector.

“This funding is about investing in the future of our workforce and ensuring Kansas City remains competitive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven economy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was proud to secure $1,031,000 in federal funding for Rockhurst to expand its cutting-edge programs in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence – fields that are critical to our national security and economic growth. This investment not only opens doors for students by enabling new research and providing additional experience, but it also strengthens our local talent pipeline and positions our region as a leader in innovation.”

“We are grateful for Congressman Cleaver’s partnership and advocacy on this project,” said Dr. Sandra Cassady. “This grant is critical as we build out state-of-the-art learning facilities on campus and expand faculty and staff to support the expansion of tech and AI-based education and workforce development in Kansas City."

This project is part of a broader effort by Rep. Cleaver to deliver direct federal resources to communities across the district. The Rockhurst investment is one of 15 community projects the congressman successfully secured federal funding for in the recent appropriations package, supporting a wide range of local priorities.

The funding will support research infrastructure and personnel to advance the university’s tech-focused degree programs that build on Rockhurst’s business program’s prestigious reputation.

Photos from today’s event are available here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.