The University of Maine System is being recognized for its efforts in cybersecurity education.

The National Security Agency and U.S. Department of Homeland Security are designating the seven-school system a National Center for Academic Excellence in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity.

Officials say that Maine’s is the first public university system in the nation to earn the designation, which goes to institutions that are working to train students with skills necessary to protect that country’s information infrastructure.

U.S. Sen. Angus King planned to visit the Maine Cyber Security Lab at the University of Southern Maine’s Portland campus on Friday to celebrate the award.