Beth Austin-DeFares is the Director of Education and Outreach for the Maritime Security Center (MSC), a DHS Science and Technology Center of Excellence in Maritime and Port Security led by Stevens Institute of Technology. Ms. Austin-DeFares is responsible for the development and coordination of the Center’s portfolio of undergraduate, graduate, and professional development programs, including the Center’s Summer Research Institute. 

She has more than 20 years of experience in academic administration, program development, student recruitment, and career placement. Prior to her position with the MSC, she served as the Director of Communications and Outreach for Stevens’ School of Systems and Enterprises. She holds a master’s degree in Urban Policy Analysis and Management from The New School and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Western New England University.