Exceeding Expectations

September 3, 2024

When the Governors Cyber Academy kicked off at Dakota State University last fall, Dean Fenecia Homan expected a couple dozen students would sign up.

Enrollment exceeded expectations, and at the end of year one, 89 students from 43 high schools took part. These 89 students (including some home-school students) completed 523 credits, and eight unique students earned 10 badges. They had a 91% cyber course success rate, and of the 56 seniors who graduated high school, 57% (32 students) have enrolled at DSU for Fall 2024.

These are impressive numbers for the first year of the program, but Homan said, “I’m most thrilled that participation included students from across the state.”

The Cyber Academy is a dual-credit program designed to give South Dakota high school juniors and seniors a jumpstart into high-demand cyber occupations. Over two years, they can earn 30 college credits through transferrable, university-level, dual-credit cyber coursework. They can also participate in credit-bearing summer enrichment opportunities, and earn digital badges that prove proficiency in technical skills.

Arien Stalford, a student at Chester High School, participated in the program last year, and is continuing this year as a senior. He had attended a summer cyber camp at DSU and  wanted to learn more about the field, so when his school principal contacted him about the dual-credit option, he decided to take a few classes. 

“I loved my Governors Cyber Academy classes,” he said. “They were paced for each student to work along with the high school demand.” After he graduates, “I want to attend DSU for Cyber Security or Cyber Operations.”   

Stalford is also motivated to earn all six badges.

“Each badge has a different focus which helps me to understand my interest in career/education, as well as gain knowledge about the program.” They are also resume-builders.

His mother, Jessica Shaw, has also been very impressed with the program.

 “The variety of classes is amazing. I feel that the students have an opportunity to gain knowledge and comfortability in making academic choices prior to graduation, which can streamline their educational future.”

She added that, “The Governors Cyber Academy has been very manageable for my son. If there were any questions the faculty and advisors were always available and helpful.”

As the Cyber Academy begins year two, Homan said they are continuing to find ways to create awareness of the program. They are also expanding ways to help the students connect with each other and build a community. Other additions are ways to engage the Cyber Academy students with DSU students, incorporate participation in cyber competitions, and help students connect with those in the industry.

Both Stalford and his mom encourage high school students to take part in the program.

“I would 100% recommend students to be active in the program and utilize the financial benefit of dual credits as well as gain knowledge of the cyber options for education and a future career,” Shaw said.