Real Story: Destiny Morgan
Destiny Morgan
CSM Class of 2015, General Studies
Current Job Title: Founder/CEO, Kuinua Tech; Sergeant, U.S. Army Reserve
Accolades, Accomplishments, and Highlights: B.A. in Communications, University of Maryland Global Campus ‘20; Charles County Chamber Member Board of Directors 2022-24
Current Institution: University of Maryland Global Campus (M.A. in IT: Informatics)
If I had to put a word to who I am today, I would say “driven.” I am a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve, and on the civilian side, I have a focus in software engineering and application and web development.
I actually came to CSM after attending Alfred State College and Regent University. After realizing their animation programs weren't exactly what I was looking for, I regrouped at CSM while diving headfirst into the opportunity of a lifetime: working at Bethesda Softworks, one of my favorite game studios, with hopes of becoming a game developer. CSM allowed me the flexibility to work and still figure out exactly what I wanted to do as far as degrees were concerned.
This faculty embraced me with open arms and understanding during a pivotal moment in my life. My teachers, with their unwavering enthusiasm and flexibility, supported me wholeheartedly as I juggled full-time schooling and a demanding job. Balancing 13-hour workdays, six days a week, to help release triple-A titles while still committing to my education was undoubtedly challenging. Yet, looking back, I realize it was worth it.
After graduating with my degree in general studies, I continued on to the University of Maryland Global Campus to earn my bachelor’s in communications and joined the military to pursue my aspirations in IT. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in IT at UMGC and hope to obtain my doctorate as well. Technology is a space where many people do not look like me, and I hope to show others that they can do it, too!
I started my company, Kuinua Tech, to give back and provide people with opportunities, especially men and women of color interested in IT. Kuinua Tech’s first initiative was to give laptops to students in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I am happy to say we were able to support students in Maryland and New York.
Growing up, my mother instilled in me the importance of not only elevating oneself, but also uplifting others and creating opportunities for the community. The values of selflessness and communal support that I witnessed here at the College of Southern Maryland have become ingrained in my being. Today, as a former student and alum, I find myself coming full circle. Once the recipient of support and guidance, I now stand ready to pay it forward, to pour into the next generation of students who walk these halls.
For me, my education represents the milestones and experiences I needed to find something I would truly be happy doing, which is application engineering and development. It combines my lifelong love of creation and my need to be challenged on a technical level. For my mother, my education is a source of pride, and it stands as proof that all the sacrifices she made for me were worthwhile. My core belief is that, as long as you're alive, you should always be learning. Knowledge is forever and is the best tool for evolution.
Last updated: 4-8-24