Student-led chapter supports inclusive pathways into cybersecurity careers and aligns with the College’s mission to prepare workforce-ready professionals

University of Phoenix is spotlighting its Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Student Chapter during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, underscoring the College of Business and Information Technology’s commitment to fostering pathways into cybersecurity careers. Launched earlier this year, the chapter has grown to more than 500 members and reflects a broader effort to help students build skills, confidence and professional connections in the cybersecurity field.

“The WiCyS Student Chapter is a powerful addition to our educational ecosystem,” said J.L. Graff, Ed.D., associate dean, College of Business and Information Technology. “It creates a space where learners can grow their skills outside the classroom, connect with industry leaders and begin to see themselves as future cybersecurity professionals.”

The University’s student chapter provides students with direct access to mentorship, technical workshops, leadership development and networking opportunities with cybersecurity professionals. Open to all students interested in cybersecurity, the chapter is led by Stephanie Benoit-Kurtz, DIT, lead cybersecurity faculty for the College of Business and Information Technology.

“At University of Phoenix, we see the WiCyS Student Chapter as a catalyst for developing cybersecurity talent,” said Kurtz. “It encourages students to think critically, engage with real-world challenges and begin shaping their professional identity in a field that demands both technical skill and strategic insight.”

University of Phoenix WiCyS Student Chapter President Jacqueline Pean, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, described the chapter as focused on building a strong community within the cybersecurity field. “We’re committed to professional development, hands-on learning, and networking. Our goal is to empower students to become confident, innovative leaders in the cybersecurity field, and we’re here to elevate voices and help our members thrive as future professionals,” she said.

Vice President Rosa Valenzuela-Maldonado, a student in the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, added that the chapter’s impact goes beyond professional networking. “For me,” she said, “it’s about more than networking. It’s about building relationships that inspire, encourage, and empower us all. I’m excited to help create opportunities that strengthen our community and provide meaningful experiences for everyone involved.”

University of Phoenix has long been recognized for excellence in its cybersecurity programs, earning the EC-Council's Academia Circle of Excellence Award for five years in a row and receiving the EC-Council 2024 Academic Partner of the Year Award. The University’s College of Business and Information Technology offers students access to faculty that possess an average of 33.2 years of professional experience. Current faculty includes 313 directors, 172 presidents, 69 Information Technology/System Administrators and 70 c-suite officers.

Learn more here about University of Phoenix College of Business and Information Technology cybersecurity programs.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life^® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu/blog.html.

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