Donna Warfield, Class of 1975

Donna Warfield, a member of the Rush-Henrietta Class of 1975, has enjoyed success in multiple fields, including as a recording artist, composer, author, and ordained minister. Her career as an inspirational speaker, teacher, coach, and volunteer spans more than two decades.

Donna graduated with a dual MBA degree from Atlanta University and spent 13 years in Georgia, building her business skills and expanding her faith-based initiatives. She has enjoyed a rewarding career in information technology, working for some of the biggest names in business, including 3M, UNISYS, Xerox Corp., Amoco Oil/BP, and MCI/WorldCom. Today, she is a senior regional trainer for Kaiser Permanente.

Early in her career, influential coaches and mentors inspired Donna to give back. One of those mentors was Lee Iacocca, former president and CEO of Chrysler Corporation, who mentored Donna when she participated in one of the company’s internship programs. Among Iacocca’s lessons: Use the gifts and talents you have been given to help others.

In 2005, Donna wrote, the bestselling self-help book, “Whatever Floats Your Boat.” In 2012, she wrote and recorded “Dramatized - Your Life a Song Only YOU Can Sing,” a collection of inspirational spoken words coupled with songs that represent Donna’s life experiences and express her spirituality.

A strong advocate of serving the community, Donna has served on a number of boards in greater Atlanta, including Goodwill Industries North Advisory Board, The Center for Children and Youth, The Center for Children and Young Adults, The Sullivan Center and the Georgia Association of Personnel Services. Donna attributes her strong interest in community service to the influence of her parents.

Her volunteer efforts have taken her around the world. In 1999, Donna served as a missionary to Africa, where she visited countries such as Kenya and Uganada. There, she taught children and adults in classroom settings and villages.

Donna lives in Silver Spring, Maryland.