As seen in the Spring 2026 DU Review digital magazine

 

Everyone has a story. Davenport alumni explain how Davenport fits into their life stories and their successes. Here are a few faces of DU.

 

Joanna Udo, BS ‘14

Computer Networking & Network Security

Job Title: Manager, End User Technology Services, Corewell Health

Founder, Bridges in Tech

Work Passion: I love that no two days look the same. In my corporate role, I lead large-scale end user technology strategy; everything from device lifecycle management to digital employee experience, which allows me to solve complex operational challenges that impact thousands of employees. As an entrepreneur, I build systems, brands and experiences from the ground up. Whether it’s technology, hospitality or digital education, I enjoy creating structure where there’s chaos and turning ideas into scalable solutions. The flexibility to continuously learn, build and lead across different industries is what energizes me most.

Davenport Highlight: What I appreciated most about Davenport was how practical and hands-on the learning experience was. The coursework wasn’t just theoretical, it prepared me to step directly into real-world environments with confidence. I also valued how business fundamentals were integrated into technical programs. That combination of technology and business strategy shaped how I think today — not just as an IT leader, but as someone who understands operations, finance and long-term growth.

Key Mentor/Decision: One of the most impactful decisions I made was choosing to fully lean into technology early and commit to mastering both the technical and business sides of it. Instead of staying narrowly focused, I intentionally expanded into leadership, operations and strategy. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors along the way who challenged me to think bigger, not to just execute, but to lead. Ultimately, the defining factor in my journey has been betting on myself. Whether stepping into leadership roles, launching businesses or pursuing continued education, I’ve consistently chosen growth over comfort and that mindset has shaped both my career and personal success.

 

Justin Buiter, ABA, ‘05

Web Development

Job Title: Co-founder of Railtown Brewing Company and Good Mooed Cafe

Work Passion: I love bringing people together! There is something universal about food and beverage. It’s a gift to be a third-place in our community where folks can gather together and enjoy themselves.

Davenport Highlight: I undervalued the breadth of core business classes that were required when I was attending. Since beginning my entrepreneurial journey, I recognize more and more each day the value in having a general understanding of a diverse foundation of business concepts. I wear many hats, and they change daily. The foundational knowledge I obtained through my degree program has allowed me to switch gears quickly and provide value regardless of the hat I’m wearing.

Key Mentor/Decision: My dad has been a huge influence in my life. Growing up, I got to see what small business ownership is all about first-hand. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it can be incredibly rewarding. He continues to be my sounding board and guide. A key decision I made, and continue to make, is to move past the fear of failure. That fear can keep you in the starting blocks your entire life if you let it. It wasn’t easy changing careers from software development to brewing and hospitality, but through that change, I was able to become my true self. It’s better to try, fail and learn than to never try at all.

 

Antoinetta Freeman, BBA, ‘02

Management

Job Title: Vice president, investment executive, Fifth Third Securities

Work Passion: What I love most about my work is making finances simple and approachable. Financial planning can feel overwhelming, and I’m passionate about helping people gain clarity and confidence in their decisions. Empowering individuals and families to become better stewards of their finances and to build secure futures is incredibly fulfilling.

Davenport Highlight: My time at Davenport was truly unforgettable. I built lifelong relationships and had the opportunity to be involved in several organizations that shaped my leadership and professional growth. As a member of the DECA program, I traveled to compete in different states across the country — experiences that strengthened my confidence, competitive spirit and passion for business. Davenport gave me both the foundation and the exposure I needed to grow.

Key Mentor/Decision: My very first financial advisor, Delta Jones-Walker, had a profound impact on my life. She helped me secure life insurance for my son, who was born with sickle cell disease, and guided me in planning for my family’s future. More than that, she encouraged me to pursue my passion for helping others through financial services. Seeing a woman who looked like me excel in a male-dominated industry was both inspiring and empowering. She not only provided financial guidance, but also mentorship, coaching and belief in my potential. Her example gave me the confidence to step into this field and ultimately become a leader in it.

 

Noah S. French, BBA, ‘22

Digital Marketing and Advertising

Job Title: Director of E-Commerce, MDS

Work Passion: I went into e-commerce because it has some of the largest growth potential in business today. I am passionate about the constant evolution of new technologies, automation tools and digital solutions that allow companies to scale faster and operate more efficiently. What excites me most is working in the manufacturing sector, which is still a relatively untapped market when it comes to e-commerce. There is tremendous opportunity to modernize how industrial products are marketed and sold online, and being part of that transformation is incredibly rewarding.

Davenport Highlight: I appreciated how Davenport combined practical business education with real-world application. The professors brought industry experience into the classroom, which made the learning feel relevant and immediately applicable to my career. My involvement in student organizations and leadership opportunities also helped me build confidence, communication skills and professional relationships that have continued to benefit me after graduation.

Key Mentor/Decision: One of the most important decisions I made was pursuing hands-on experience early and being open to opportunities that pushed me outside my comfort zone. Through internships, leadership roles and professional experiences, I was able to develop both technical marketing skills and business acumen. I have also been fortunate to learn from mentors and leaders who emphasized discipline, adaptability and continuous learning, which has played a significant role in my professional growth.