Staying in the Loop is a new post series from the Chapter of Black and Latino Alumni (CBLA) that seeks to create connections between alumni, faculty, staff, and other supporters of UMBC and CBLA. Click here for more information about CBLA.

Name: Donta Henson
Major: Health Administration and Policy
Grad year: 2013

Q: What do/did you enjoy most about being a part of the UMBC community?

The energetic and diverse learning environment.

Q: UMBC is approaching its 50th anniversary (2016) and certainly the campus has come a long way – from a small commuter school to the nation’s #1 “up-and-coming” university – in such a relatively short period of time. What, in your opinion, makes UMBC so unique/special? What’s your most memorable experience/moment at UMBC?

Hands down, the leadership of Dr. Hrabowski is what makes UMBC such a special place.

Q: If you could meet one person in the world who would it be?

Dr. Mae Jemison.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

“Stay the course.” This advice was given to me during my early years in the Navy and while so simple the message of perseverance has carried me to unbelievable heights.

Q: What is one book you think everyone should read?

Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye.

Q: What is one thing you can’t live without?

One thing I couldn’t live without is my family. They’ve been my biggest supporters and my biggest source of pride.