Cynthia Knight, PhD
Dr. Cynthia Knight has dedicated her career to creating innovative educational opportunities. With degrees from the University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa and Capella University, Dr. Knight brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work.
Dr. Knight has served as a college professor and has held roles in the Iowa Department of Education, where she developed programs in special education and core subjects. Her passion for education and commitment to serving all students led her to establish the Iowa Net High Academy in 2011. This academy provided personalized online learning experiences for students who had exhausted traditional educational options. Under her leadership, 84% of the academy’s students earned their high school diplomas, with all graduates either employed or pursuing higher education.
Seeing a growing need for alternative education, Dr. Knight founded the Jordahl Academy in 2017, a nonpublic high school, using career and college pathway learning in a standards-based exploratory curriculum. In 2022, she was awarded the first founding group charter school in Iowa, leading to the creation of Choice Charter School. This school serves students across Iowa who seek a personalized education tailored to their needs.
Beyond her work in education, Dr. Knight has served as mayor of Union, IA, plays piano, directs the choir at Community Church of Union and operates Ivadel Ruth’s Tea Room, which supports Jordahl Academy. Her dedication to her community and passion for helping others shine through in all her endeavors.
Dr. Knight’s story is a testament to the impact one person can have in transforming lives and creating opportunities for those in need. Her innovative approach to education continues to inspire and make a difference.
Actual Capella alum who agreed to appear in our promotional materials.
Joseph J. Burt-Miller Jr., DIT
Dr. Burt-Miller Jr. is a Mount Vernon, NY, native with a heritage rooted in Jamaica. Selected as the inaugural president of the Capella Chapter of SALUTE Veteran’s National Honor Society in December 2022, Dr. Burt-Miller Jr. serves as a resource for fellow veteran students.
Dr. Burt-Miller Jr. is a United States Air Force veteran with over 15 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, project management and cloud-based applications. He’s served in prominent government agencies such as the DoD Cyber Crime Center, Department of Homeland Security and currently in the National Security Agency.
Dr. Burt-Miller Jr.’s cybersecurity knowledge complements his ability to give strong presentations. He creates workshops and facilitates conversations to improve the understanding of cybersecurity teams and partners.
His commitment to the cyber community extends to mentoring and leading the Dr. Joseph J. Burt-Miller Jr. (DRJJBMJ) Study Hall, held virtually, aimed at shaping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
He further amplifies his passion for cybersecurity through his podcast, The Cyber Coffee Hour, co-hosted by Alfredzo B. Nash Jr. The podcast prioritizes underappreciated and undervalued Black men and women in cybersecurity, providing a platform for showcasing their skills and affirming their belonging in the field.
Actual Capella alum who agreed to appear in our promotional materials.