Tech Entrepreneur Arnie Bellini Commits $2 Million to Saint Leo University Cybersecurity Program

ST. LEO, Fla. – As cyber threats continue to target businesses, government agencies, and critical infrastructure nationwide, Saint Leo University is expanding its efforts to prepare executive-level cybersecurity leaders through a $2 million commitment from technology entrepreneur and philanthropist Arnie Bellini and his wife, Lauren.

The gift will support the development, launch, and long-term growth of the university's Master of Science in Cybersecurity Executive Track, an accelerated graduate program designed to prepare professionals to lead cybersecurity strategies across business, government, healthcare, defense, and critical infrastructure sectors.

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"Our nation needs to defend its digital borders with the same commitment that we defend our physical borders," Bellini said. "That starts by educating leaders who understand cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the responsibility that comes with protecting our economy and critical infrastructure. Saint Leo shares that vision, and I'm excited to help build this program."

The new program is among the first of its kind in the nation, and its first cohort will begin in January 2027. Unlike traditional cybersecurity programs focused primarily on technical skill development, Saint Leo's Cybersecurity Executive Track will combine executive leadership development, applied cybersecurity training, and industry-informed instruction, supported by artificial intelligence and technology platforms.

"Arnie and Lauren Bellini's extraordinary generosity and vision will help Saint Leo University prepare the next generation of cybersecurity leaders at a time when protecting our nation's digital infrastructure has never been more important," said Dr. Jim Burkee, president of Saint Leo University. "This investment bolsters our ability to deliver innovative, industry-connected education while expanding opportunities for students and working professionals to lead in one of the fastest-growing and most critical fields in the world."

The program will be housed within Saint Leo's newly integrated Tapia College of Business and Technology, underscoring the university's focus on leadership at the intersection of business, innovation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

The Bellinis' contribution includes $1.6 million in direct financial support and approximately $400,000 in technology resources to enhance cybersecurity instruction and workforce development. The in-kind technology support includes access to SkillBit and ConnectSecure platforms, which will provide students with hands-on cybersecurity training, simulations, and applied learning experiences.

"We are grateful for Arnie and Lauren Bellini's longstanding commitment to Saint Leo University and their continued investment in our students and programs," said Dr. Stephen Kubask, vice president of University Advancement. "Their generosity demonstrates how philanthropic partnerships can advance academic innovation and reinforce the connection between higher education and industry needs."

In addition to supporting the Cybersecurity Executive Track, the Bellini Family Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance to full-time Saint Leo students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity and related fields. The Bellinis' philanthropic efforts also extend beyond technology and academia, with support for conservation, sustainability, and community-focused initiatives.

Bellini is a national advocate for strengthening the nation's digital borders through collaboration among government, military, academia, and the private sector. As founder of ConnectWise and chairman of ConnectSecure, he has helped advance innovation in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and technology-driven economic development. He also is credited with helping establish the Tampa Bay region as a nationally recognized technology hub and supporting efforts to position the area as "CyberBay," a center for cybersecurity excellence in the United States.

Saint Leo University has earned designation as a National Security Agency / Department of Homeland Security National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education, validating the new program's rigor, relevance, and alignment with national cybersecurity standards. Learn more about the Cybersecurity Executive Track online at saintleo.edu/programs/business-information-technology-degrees/masters-degree-cybersecurity-executive-track.