For Danielle Lewis (‘21), the University of Dayton School of Business Administration offered more than a business education. It gave her a community where she could discover her potential, develop as a leader, and build the skills and confidence to launch her career.
A first-generation and Flyer Promise Scholars student, Lewis graduated with majors in management information systems and marketing with an emphasis in digital marketing. Today, she puts both sides of her education to work as a digital marketing analyst at Cintas.
We caught up with Lewis to reflect on her Dayton experience, the lessons she still carries with her and her advice for the next generation of Business Flyers.
What drew you to UD and the School of Business Administration?
I chose the University of Dayton because, from the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt a sense of belonging. During my campus tour, I realized I was not just visiting a university; I was experiencing a community.
I chose the School of Business Administration because of its emphasis on experiential learning. The countless student organizations, leadership opportunities, and internships offered experiences that extended far beyond the classroom.
Choosing the University of Dayton meant choosing a community that believed in me before I fully believed in myself. It became more than the place where I earned my degree—it became the place where I discovered my purpose, developed as a leader, and built lifelong relationships.
How did the University of Dayton help you develop skills and prepare you for your career?
The University of Dayton prepared me for my role as a digital marketing analyst by giving me more than technical knowledge; it gave me the experiences, relationships, and mindset to become a thoughtful professional.
Through organizations, internships, leadership roles, and hands-on learning, I developed skills in collaboration, problem-solving, communication, and strategic thinking that I use every day in my career.
Looking back, Dayton taught me how to combine strategy with empathy, data with storytelling, and business knowledge with a desire to make a meaningful impact.
What experience at the University of Dayton had the greatest impact on you?
The experience that had the greatest impact on me was serving as the Lead Peer Advisor within the School of Business Administration’s Mittelstaedt Center for Academic Advising and Business Student Success. It became the place where I learned to fly while helping others soar.
Helping students overcome obstacles, build confidence, and discover their potential taught me that leadership is about empowering others, not holding a title. It reinforced the Marianist value of community and showed me that a leader's greatest impact is helping others succeed.
How would you describe the University of Dayton Business community?
I would describe the community within the University of Dayton School of Business Administration as supportive, collaborative, and united. From the beginning of my journey, I experienced a culture where people genuinely cared about one another’s success.
I learned that success was not achieved alone—it was built through the relationships, collaboration, and support of the people who helped me become the person and leader I was meant to be.
Was there a challenge at University of Dayton that helped you grow?
One of the greatest challenges I experienced during my time at the University of Dayton was facing rejection after making it to the final round of a rigorous interview process for a premier campus organization, Flyer Consulting.
Instead of letting the rejection discourage me, I used it as motivation to continue growing, getting involved, and seeking new opportunities.
That experience taught me to embrace challenges, trust the process, and understand that growth often comes from moments that do not go according to plan.
How does your Marianist education influence the way you lead today?
My Marianist education at the University of Dayton prepared me to lead for the common good by teaching me that leadership is about serving others, building community, and creating a positive impact.
Today, I carry those lessons into my career by leading with empathy, collaboration, and purpose. Dayton taught me that true leadership is not just about personal success. It is about using my skills to uplift others and contribute to something greater than myself.
What advice would you give current Dayton Business students?
My advice to current Dayton business students is to embrace every opportunity to get involved, build relationships, and step outside your comfort zone.
Don't be discouraged by challenges or setbacks. Every experience—even rejection—builds resilience and often leads to opportunities you never imagined.
Most importantly, know that you belong here.
What would you tell a prospective student or family considering Dayton Business?
I would tell a prospective student or parent considering the University of Dayton that it is more than a place to earn a degree; it is a community that invests in your growth and potential.
If you're considering Dayton, look beyond the academics and experience the community. It became my home and provided the foundation for both my personal and professional success.
