Baltimore, Md. – Today's Senior Spotlight goes to Nnenne Odukwu, a nursing student. Odukwu was a member of the NDMU tennis team for two years, in 2018 and 2019. 
 
In her two years on the team, Odukwu made a big impact. She was named to the 2019 CSAC All-Sportsmanship team after recording three doubles victories, and one single victory. During the 2018 season, Odukwu made appearances in 11 doubles, and 10 single matches in her rookie tennis season. 
 
"Nnenne was clearly the person of choice to lead our closing cheer at the end of each practice, and was always willing to step up and take the lead on any team project," said head coach Mark Ortiz. "My transition to head coach was made much easier by Nnenne and all her time and efforts. She is a big part of our Gator spirit!"
 
Off the court, Odukwu excelled in many areas. During her time at Notre Dame, she served as an Orientation Leader, and a peer educator. Odukwu also served as the Vice President of the African Caribbean Student Association, and was the Communication Liaison for the American Red Cross from 2017-2018. She also served as the class of 2020's Secretary, helping plan events, and fundraise. 
 
On top of everything, she served in the Bonner Leadership Program, where she will have served over 1200 hours of community service by the time she graduates. Throughout her time at Notre Dame, she has served in non-profits such as Strong City Baltimore (fundraising volunteer), The American Red Cross (College Communication Liaison for the Mayor's Office), and My Sisters Place Women Center (Meal Service Volunteer). The past two years, she has been at St. Joseph's Medical Center. 
 
Odukwu is a nursing student in the GBMC Medical ICU. Following graduation, she plans to work as an RN and complete her new grad residency program in Baltimore Hospital. Within the next few five years, she plans to move out of Maryland, and explore the United States. 
 Why did you choose NDMU?
I got into all over the country, but Notre Dame was the only one that guided me through every step of picking a university. It was no doubt, the people that I met, solidified my choice. Many of the first impressions that I had of NDMU initially told me that I would make relationships and connections that I wouldn't find anywhere else.
 
How has your life changed since attending NDMU?
I've grown up a lot more than I was expecting to in four short years. I've learned how to advocate for myself and others and find the opportunities, big or small that make a difference. Notre Dame taught me the power of responsibility, both personal and social.
 
What was the best part about being a student-athlete?
The best part of being student athlete is my team. I've learned that success can only come with growth, and growth in a team can only come through trust and cooperation. I've never been so sure that a group of people love, respect me and only strive for my happiness. At the same time, I'm sure they know that I only seek the same for them. My greatest hope is that my team stays just as strong as they are now after I leave NDMU, a goal that I have no doubt they'll achieve.
 
What is your favorite memory with your team?        
Practice is always a fun time for us. I think that we're really goofy team (or maybe that's me), but as long as there's music, balls and us (and our coach's dogs), that's the best part of my day.
 
What is one thing you enjoy doing outside of school and sports?
I usually attend 2-3 kickboxing classes in Towson if I'm not super busy. Other than that, I just love spending time with my friends, trying any new restaurants in Baltimore City.


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