Capella alumna Deenya Craig earned a Master of Science in Human Resource Management and now serves as Director of Total Rewards for a Minnesota nonprofit organization. Passionate about creating opportunities for others, she uses her expertise to support employees while sharing her knowledge with the broader community. In this Q&A, Deenya shares what inspired her career, how Capella’s FlexPath learning format supported her educational journey, and the advice she has for others who want to create positive change.
What inspired you to pursue work supporting mental health and community wellbeing?
Deenya Craig, MS: What inspired me to do work in community well being is that I am deeply moved by the passion of shared responsibility to help each other do better, be better and live better. My community are my neighbors and it’s important to me that they live with purpose intently. Knowing that my community has felt left out of conversations about them without them inspired me to not only stay in HR but to grow in the field so that my knowledge can help the next one grow. I have done many workshops in my community with the tools and education I’ve learned at Capella.
How has your Capella experience, including the Capella Fellows program, influenced your work or career journey?
Deenya Craig, MS: The Capella experience, specifically the Flex Program was created with people like me in mind. Education is important but it can’t come with costs that I cannot afford to pay. the Flex Program opened up a learning opportunity that without it, I would not have been able to start or finish my degree. Working full time is a necessity that provides a base, balance, and structure. Without flexibility to do work on my own term and times, it opens up my mind when I’m at my best. I’ve completed assignments in all available work shifts because that’s what the particular season was calling for. I was able to look ahead at my class schedule and move to classes that had issues we were facing in the workplace. I could live out real time, my assignments and felt that better prepared me for my class even above the reading material. Now with this degree completed, the flex path has been a great learning tool as I now am enrolled and on course to complete by DBA in Strategy and Innovation.
What message or advice would you share with others who want to make a difference in their communities?
Deenya Craig, MS: The message I would share with others who desire to make a difference in their communities is to move beyond the thought that others may be doing it or will do it. Multiple restaurants offer burgers but each one has a uniqueness that draws people to it. There are people who may be drawn to you for the purpose making a difference in their lives. Don’t make them wait! Someone who decided to act ran across an eager “you” once day and changed your perspective. Coin that thing and do it.
Are you a proud Capella graduate making an impact in your field or community? We’d love to hear your story. Share your accomplishments and be considered for a future alumni spotlight by submitting the Alumni Accomplishments Form. Your journey could inspire others to keep reaching for their goals.
