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N.C. A&T Names Cyber Defense and Artificial Intelligence Lab for Loften ‘90

By Deja Huggins, advancement communications coordinator, dhuggins2@ncat.edu

GREENSBORO, N.C. (Nov. 13, 2025) — In recognition of her exceptional contributions to technology, innovation and education as well as her unwavering support of the College of Engineering at her alma mater, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has named its new state-of the-art cyber defense and artificial intelligence lab for Board of Trustees Chair Gina L. Loften ‘90.

N.C. A&T’s Division of University Advancement hosted a special ceremony Tuesday, Nov. 11, to dedicate the Gina L. Loften Cyber Defense & Artificial Intelligence Lab, which is located on the third floor of the Harold L. Martin Sr. Engineering Research and Innovation Complex.

Loften is a nationally recognized technology executive, board member and advocate for diversity in STEM. She served as chief technology officer for IBM and Microsoft U.S., leading global initiatives in artificial intelligence, cloud computing and ethical innovation. She serves on the boards of TIAA, TTEC, ThoughtWorks, Foursquare and RTI International, and was appointed to A&T Board of Trustees in 2023, becoming chair this year.
 

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Loften is a Fortune 100 board director and recently retired as the chief technology officer for Microsoft US. She has demonstrated her expertise in mergers and acquisitions by identifying and integrating software and consulting companies, creating portfolios of new products, services and revenue streams. Loften has held senior executive positions in research, development, sales and consulting at IBM and Microsoft. Her roles have been characterized by increasing responsibility, scope, and range from emerging businesses.   Loften serves as an independent board director for the public companies NASDAQ: TTEC and NASDAQ: TWKS (Thoughtworks). Additionally, she is a member of the Board of Trustees for Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association - Fortune 100 Financial Services company. She is also on the board of Foursquare and Modernizing Medicine. Active in the community, she is known for leadership and passion in STEM education and advising business leaders on growth. A sought-after speaker, she has been published on topics such as leadership, artificial intelligence, cloud, cybersecurity, mental health, and diversity and equity and inclusion. Over the years, she has received numerous accolades and awards, including being recognized by N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper for her career as a STEM leader. An A&T alumna, Loften earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.

The Gina L. Loften Cyber Defense & Artificial Intelligence Lab will serve as a collaborative hub for interdisciplinary research, ethical AI development and workforce training. The lab will bring together faculty, students and industry partners to explore solutions in cybersecurity, resilience and emerging technologies.

Chancellor James R. Martin II described the lab as a space for discovery and collaboration that reflects A&T’s growing leadership in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and ethical innovation and serves as a proper testament to Loften’s legacy and dedication to higher education.

“We are in the forever business; there will always be a North Carolina A&T,” said Martin. “When we dedicate a space like this, we honor not only a career of achievement but a life of service.

“Ms. Loften gives not just from what she has, but from who she has become. Her name will inspire generations of Aggies to pursue excellence and invest in others.”

Chancellor Emeritus Harold L. Martin Sr., who was one of Loften’s professors when she was a College of Engineering student, recalled her focus, integrity and commitment to excellence. As a trailblazing professional, she “understands that talent is universal even when opportunity is not.”

“From the beginning, Gina was driven, poised and serious about her studies,” he said. “She has broken barriers and redefined leadership in technology, all while staying true to A&T’s values of service and innovation. Her success shows that Aggies don’t just succeed – they lead and give back.”

Interim Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Catherine Edmonds ‘92, Ed.D., presented an official proclamation to Loften in front of a crowd of more than 70 family members, friends – including former classmates and sorority sisters – and university officials who attended the ceremony.

“She holds us accountable, and that accountability pushes us toward greatness,” Edmonds said of her fellow alumna. “Trustee Loften is a true example of how excellence and integrity can move a university – and a generation – a forward.”

Trustee Kim Gatling ’96, whom Loften succeeded as chair, said Loften’s leadership is defined by service.

“Gina is fierce, humble, strong and steady,” she said. “She represents A&T with grace and power, showing the world why this university is so special.”

Loften credited Ronald McNair E. McNair ’71, Ph.D., who was one of NASA’s first three Black astronauts and died aboard the space shuttle Challenger, with convincing her to enroll A&T when she was a student at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. She also credited her professors and mentors, including Chancellor Emeritus Martin, for supporting her through challenges that ultimately strengthened her resolve.

“It is with deep gratitude that I stand here today,” she said. “North Carolina A&T changed my life. It’s where I learned resilience, purpose and pride. From the dirt roads of Cove City (North Carolina) to the global stage, I’ve always carried my Aggie Pride. This lab represents possibility for every student who dreams big and dares to change the world.”