The CAE program was established by the NSA in late 1998. Purdue was one of the first seven universities certified as CAEs, in May of 1999.

From caecommunity.org:

The Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research (CAE-R) designation indicates that an institution increases the understanding of robust cyber defense technology, policy, and practices that will enable our Nation to prevent and respond to a catastrophic event. Eligible institutions must be a DoD school, a Ph.D. producing military academy, or a regionally accredited Ph.D. degree-granting college or university. Institutions must identify as a Doctoral University – Highest Research Activity (R1), Doctoral University – Higher Research Activity (R2), or Doctoral University – Moderate Research Activity (R3) as determined by the Carnegie Foundation Basic Classification system (and/or other independent body to measure CD) or provide a written justification as to significant CD research. An institution or program must apply for re-designation every five academic years.