From the moment she first heard about McMurry University, Deena Duarte felt something click. She was just a seventh grader in Sanderson, Texas, when McMurry first landed on her radar through friends she met at church camp. The ties to the First United Methodist Church gave her a glimpse of the strong community McMurry offered, and the idea stuck.
Years later, as a high school senior, fate nudged her again. Coach Sam Nichols called to talk about playing basketball at McMurry. Deena decided to visit the campus, and the moment she stepped foot there, she knew—this was where she belonged.
Life at McMurry was vibrant for Deena. She poured herself into the Communication program, chasing her love of journalism and broadcasting through The War Whoop student newspaper. She joined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, pledged T.I.P. and eventually became its President, and served on the Student Ambassador Board and Interclub Council. She was even honored as HEI Sweetheart. But more than the titles or activities, it was the people who made her experience unforgettable. “The connections with professors, campus leaders, and classmates were truly special and lasting,” she reflects. “You don’t see that same level of engagement and care at larger universities.”
After graduation, her path took a few twists. At first, Deena dreamed of being a sportscaster for Telemundo. She landed in local news for two years, then moved to Houston to work as a tech recruiter—with Enron as one of her main clients. When that chapter closed suddenly, it became an unexpected blessing. She followed her heart into education, earning her teaching certification and becoming a bilingual teacher in Houston ISD. She later moved to the Austin area, where she continued teaching before transitioning into training teachers on integrating technology into their classrooms.
That shift sparked a new lifelong passion. Fifteen years later, she is still helping educators combine teaching and technology, all while building bridges between families, schools, and communities. At the heart of it all is McMurry’s lesson of servant leadership, a value she says has shaped everything about her professional journey. “McMurry strengthened the values I saw in my parents—service, care, and leadership—and those continue to guide me today.”
As much as McMurry influenced her, Deena has always looked for ways to give back. When she learned about the Alumni Association Board of Directors, she knew it was the right fit. The chance to shape student experiences, reconnect with old friends, and meet new ones drew her in. Serving on the Recognition Committee allowed her to shine a light on alumni making incredible impacts, and now, as President of the Alumni Board, she’s excited to expand that influence.
For Deena, the McMurry connection never fades. She encourages alumni to come back—not just for Homecoming, but anytime. “Stop by the new Campus Center, catch a game, grab Chick-fil-A, or join a virtual alumni panel. There are countless ways to engage, whether you live nearby or across the country. If your efforts impact just one student, it’s time well spent.”
As she thinks about her legacy, Deena hopes to leave behind a spirit of warmth and welcome. “If I could bottle up the feeling of returning to campus and share it with our alumni, that’s the legacy I would want. When I was a student, alumni opened doors for me. Now, it’s my turn to keep those doors wide open and roll out the maroon carpet for the next generation.”
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We’d love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.