Cyber Academy Exceeding Expectations

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

But enrollment exceeded expectations, and at the end of year one, 89 students from 43 high schools took part, completing 523 credits. 

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. 

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. 

After he graduates, Stalford says he wants to attend DSU for Cyber Security or Cyber Operations.

Of the 32 high school seniors who took part in the program last year, over half enrolled at DSU for the Fall of 2024.

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.