As the year gets underway, many alumni pause to consider where they are and what comes next. This month's newsletter highlights graduates putting leadership into practice, continuing their learning and strengthening professional connections through real experiences and opportunities across the Capella community.

A Message to Alumni From President Constance St. Germain

Since 1997, Capella graduates have built a strong and enduring community that now spans more than 150,000 alumni across generations, disciplines and career paths. That reach reflects not only the growth of the university but also the sustained commitment of our graduates to applying their education in meaningful ways.

As president, I am especially looking forward to seeing our alumni continue to shape the Capella community itself. Whether through mentoring, sharing expertise with current learners or staying connected in the Capella Career and Community Network as thought leaders in your fields, your engagement strengthens the university and keeps it grounded in the realities of professional practice. 

Wherever you are today, I remain deeply proud of how Capella alumni lead and serve, often outside the spotlight but always with real impact. As we look to the months ahead, I hope you feel encouraged to pursue what matters most to you and supported by a community that respects the many paths our graduates choose and the change those choices create. 

Thank you for being an important part of the Capella community.  

Warm regards, 

Constance St. Germain, EdD, JD
President, Capella University 

Celebrating National Mentoring Month at Capella University

January is National Mentoring Month, recognizing the guidance that supports learners through key academic milestones. Capella psychology faculty member Dr. Tom Vail was named the 2025 Jerome Halverson Distinguished Mentor Award recipient, honoring his sustained commitment to doctoral learners and academic mentorship. Visit the Career Development Center to learn more about career mentoring resources.

Examining Leadership, Cybersecurity and Voice in Tech With Joseph Burt-Miller Jr.

Capella DIT graduate Dr. Joseph Burt-Miller Jr. reflects on earning his doctorate, launching Cyber Coffee Hour, and featuring Capella President Dr. Constance St. Germain in a standout podcast episode about AI, leadership and the future of education. Read more

Meet four Capella alumni shaping their professional paths.

Roy Dennis, DNP, and Virgie Dennis, MSN
A married nursing duo honoring their daughter's legacy through service, scholarship and leadership in military healthcare. Read more

Ruby Parkzes, DNP
A primary care founder using her Capella education to lead, mentor and expand access to compassionate care. Read more

Kylie McBride, D.Min
A minister, coach and educator blending clinical training with pastoral wisdom to support ethical leadership and healing. Read more

Share your accomplishments for future alumni features.

Join Capella alumni Dr. Mecca Terry and Dr. CJ Dulaney for a live, action-focused conversation on leadership, growth and community. Moderated by Capella faculty Dr. Marc Muchnick, this Alumni Speaker Series explores real-world experiences through three themed segments—SHIFT, BUILD, and CONNECT.

Whether you are considering another degree, building new skills or exploring professional development opportunities, the Alumni Learning Hub brings Capella resources together in one place. Explore continuing education options, alumni-exclusive programs, skill-development and tools designed to support your next step.

Explore volunteer opportunities, share your own service experiences and see how others across the Capella community are giving back through the Student and Alumni Volunteer Hub on the Career and Community Network.

If returning to school is part of your plans this year, eligible new and returning students and alumni are encouraged to explore these opportunities as they consider next steps in their education. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply.