La Plata resident and College of Southern Maryland (CSM) alumna Destiny Morgan '15 was recognized at the 2024 Spring Commencement as the third recipient of CSM's Distinguished Alumni Award.
"Alumni are our brightest points of pride – they are CSM ambassadors and they are critical in shaping our community, which is why the Distinguished Alumni Award is so meaningful to us," said CSM Board of Trustee Chair Shawn Coates during the announcement.
Morgan's journey with CSM began when she sought a flexible and affordable option for continuing her education while managing a demanding job. "My [CSM] teachers, with their unwavering enthusiasm and flexibility, supported me wholeheartedly as I juggled full-time schooling and a demanding job," Morgan shared at a previous CSM Foundation event. Despite the challenge of balancing 13-hour workdays and schooling, she reflected on the experience as worthwhile.
After earning her associate degree in General Studies at CSM, Morgan joined the military, then pursued further education. She completed her undergraduate degree in Communications at the University of Maryland Global Campus, a master's degree in Management and Leadership with a focus on IT from Western Governors University, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Artificial Intelligence at Capitol Technology University. Morgan has achieved these milestones while living in La Plata and running her IT company, Kuinua Tech, accompanied by her canine colleagues, Inferno and Azula.
In 2023, Morgan established the Kuinua Together scholarship at CSM. "Growing up, my mother instilled in me the importance of not only elevating oneself but also uplifting others and creating opportunities for the community," Morgan said. She highlighted that the values of selflessness and communal support she experienced at CSM are now deeply ingrained in her. As a former student and alumna, Morgan emphasized the importance of giving back and supporting the next generation of students.
"Kuinua," a Swahili word meaning "to lift up" or "elevate," reflects the scholarship's mission to elevate students, especially those of color, who may face financial barriers to accessing education for a tech career. The scholarship was first awarded in fall 2023 and aims to support underrepresented students in their academic and career pursuits.
"The Kuinua Together scholarship beautifully links the past, present, and future of success for CSM students while providing meaningful support for students who are underrepresented in their fields and facing challenges reaching their goals," Coates said. He added, "Destiny is a true CSM Hawk Hero. She's always there for us, when needed, no matter the task."
Beyond her educational achievements and business ventures, Morgan is also partnering with CSM to provide students with real-world work experience while they pursue their degrees. Additionally, she continues to serve in the 450th Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne) in White Plains.
"The trajectory of my journey, much like the flight of a bird, was guided by the winds of mentorship and support," Morgan said. She credited her success to the mentorship and support she received, which played a crucial role in shaping her career and personal growth. Morgan emphasized the importance of the "each one, teach one" philosophy, believing that by uplifting each other, everyone can achieve greater heights.
Morgan's dedication to education, community, and service exemplifies the values celebrated by the CSM Distinguished Alumni Award. Her story serves as an inspiration to current and future students, showcasing the impact of resilience, support, and the drive to give back to the community.
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