Daniela Henderson ’23

Daniela Henderson’s determination to stay connected at UNCW has transformed into a mission to connect online alumni and on-campus students, helping create a more engaged network at her alma mater. 

Henderson is the first full-time online alumnus to serve as a member of the UNCW Alumni Association Board.  

“I wanted to be the voice for the online and non-local students. Just because we aren't on campus and choose to be remote doesn't mean we don't want to feel included and be part of the UNCW family,” she said. “Being an online student makes you even more determined to be a part of the school because you have to be intentional to stay connected or even make that drive to campus. Being on the alumni board is a way to stay connected, contribute to UNCW's ongoing success, and help foster opportunities for current and future students.” 

One of Henderson’s goals is to focus on strengthening networking and career opportunities between alumni and students, especially for those in online or nontraditional programs, she said. “Creating accessible, meaningful connections can make a big difference in finding your next mentor or career,” she added.  

Henderson earned her undergraduate degree in public relations from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Strayer University and a master's in business analytics from UNCW. 

“I am a first-generation grad student, now with a double master. This means a lot to me because it represents breaking barriers, especially being a black woman and having the support and praise from my friends and family,” Henderson said. “Being able to be a role model to my friends and family is always a blessing because I have been able to show them that if I can move barriers and stay resilient and determined, they can do it, too.” 

Henderson completed a graduate assistantship with the Cameron School of Business and received a Graduate Tuition Scholarship. To her, becoming an online student was the obvious choice, and UNCW provided the perfect amount of flexibility and community.  

“Being a fully online student offered the perfect blend of academic rigor and flexibility. The program was thoughtfully designed, and the professors were highly engaged,” she said. “Despite being online, I always sought ways to connect to the UNCW community through day trips to UNCW, discussions, group projects and virtual events.” 

Joining the alumni board was a way for Henderson to provide online students with a voice and offer insight into their unique college experiences. She hopes to create awareness for online and nontraditional students and to ensure they have the same opportunities as traditional students.  

“I'm incredibly grateful to be part of the UNCW community,” she said. “I look forward to contributing in any way to help the Seahawks soar even higher.”