Brandi Hudson

FOR BRANDI HUDSON, the hard working mentality exemplified by the University of Michigan's slogan, “Leaders and Best,” has driven her to success both in and out of athletic competition. Ultimately, it has inspired her to give back to a university and community that she says has given so much to her.

Hudson grew up east of the Ann Arbor campus in Detroit, and attended Marian High School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. There, she played basketball and participated in track and field. She describes herself in high school as competitive at the state level, finishing in the top 10 for Michigan's Miss Basketball and excelling in track, although not reaching national caliber. Her talents ultimately garnered her attention from smaller schools, however for Hudson and her family, receiving an education from a tier-one institution was a top priority. Given the close proximity of a school meeting this criteria, she decided to attend the University of Michigan, where she would essentially walk on to the track and field team.

“Joining the track team gave me an invaluable sense of belonging from the moment I arrived on campus. It offered a close-knit community that prevented me from feeling lost among the 40,000 students at Michigan. This built-in support system made the transition to university life much smoother and more meaningful.” Hudson entered her freshman year on a scholarship that covered the cost of her books, but through her dedication to improvement as well as the help and encouragement of James Henry, longtime head coach for the track and field team, she grew into one of the conference's best long jumpers.

“As a walk-on, I was initially intimidated,” Brandi stated. “Many of my teammates were featured in magazines and ranked among the top high school athletes. They had full scholarships, while I was just starting out. But Coach Henry saw something in me. He'd say, 'You're really good,' and when I'd doubt myself, he'd simply respond, 'No, no, no.' He consistently reminded me of what was possible, helping me see beyond my initial self-imposed limitations.”

She recalls one of her favorite Michigan memories as a defining moment in her track career. As she lined up to take her last jump at the Big Ten Championship of her junior year, she remembers the crowd clapping in unison. She had entered the weekend as the favorite to win the long jump, but after a less than ideal start, she was losing going into her final attempt. Using the energy of the crowd to propel her forward, she jumped nearly 22 feet, setting both the school and conference record in the event.

“Coach Henry's words, 'It only takes one jump,' have resonated with me throughout my life,” Brandi explained. “This philosophy extends far beyond track and field. When you consider excellence in any field, people are often remembered for a single moment of exceptional performance. It's that one instance where they reach a level of pure excellence. Of course, countless hours of preparation lead up to that moment, but ultimately, it's about seizing that one crucial opportunity when it presents itself.”

After a successful few years on the track and in the classroom, Hudson received a full scholarship for her senior year and graduated with her degree in organizational studies from the College of Literature, Science and the Arts in 2001.

Her life then led her to enter a career in pharmaceutical and medical device sales where she sought a profession that both fulfilled her passion for helping people in the best way possible, while also balancing financial stability for herself as a 22-year-old. Over nearly 15 years in the field, she advanced in her roles and consistently finished in the top percentage for performance, whether in sales or in managing hundreds of people within her organization. What she loved most was the leadership aspect of her position, helping people advance in their careers and find their own success in the industry.

Upon becoming a mother to her now seven-year-old son, Hudson decided it was time to step back from her demanding career as a sales executive, which required a busy, traveling lifestyle. She wanted to reassess what was important to her and what fulfilled her in life. In this self-reflection, she realized that the philanthropic work she was already doing was what she wanted to pursue more fully.

“I view my philanthropic commitments through a holistic lens, seeking to make an impact across various domains,” she explained. “Whether it's my involvement with the University of Michigan, serving on multiple committees, addressing poverty in the Bay Area through The Tipping Point Foundation, or supporting the arts with the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the underlying principle remains the same. It's always about expanding access to opportunities and empowering individuals to realize their full potential.”

Currently at Michigan, Hudson is involved in many aspects of campus life. She serves on the LS&A Dean's Advisory Council, which she notes has given her an amazing perspective on student life and the kind of improvements that can enhance the student experience.

She also founded “The Raise: Generations of Black Excellence” on campus, whose executive committee consists of 17 alumni who have all made major gifts to the university. This group works to ensure adequate representation on all school and unit councils, increase the percentage of black students at the university, and foster increased philanthropy from black alumni. Hudson states that founding this organization is “one of the things I'm most proud of Creating.”

Hudson has also chosen to give her time and resources to Michigan Athletics by endowing the Brandi and Charles Hudson Women's Track and Field Scholarship. In the process of deciding how to best give back, she wanted to find a way to honor Coach Henry for his support during her time with the Maize and Blue. Hudson settled on endowing a scholarship after discussing it with Henry and planning with the development office. This decision reflects her dedication to supporting student-athletes and fostering their growth both on and off the field. Hudson also maintains a close relationship with the student-athletes who benefit from her scholarship, offering mentorship and guidance as they navigate their academic and athletic careers.

“I believe the athletic department's commitment to student-athletes sets Michigan apart from other top institutions. It's a testament to our dedication to being at the forefront of collegiate athletics. From Athletic Director Warde Manuel down to the coaches, trainers, and administrative staff, there's a universal commitment to supporting our student-athletes. This comprehensive support is a key reason our family continues investing in the athletic department.”

For Brandi, the journey from student-athlete to successful professional and dedicated philanthropist is a testament to the enduring impact of the University of Michigan. Her commitment to the values of leadership and excellence continues to inspire those around her and ensures a lasting legacy at her alma mater.

“What's remarkable about giving to the athletic department is the opportunity to tailor your contribution to your personal values and interests,” she says, offering advice to potential donors to the athletic department. “The development team works closely with you to identify what truly matters to you and find meaningful ways within athletics to make an impact. This personalized approach allows donors to uplift the areas they're most passionate about, aligning their philanthropy with their own values and vision for the program.”

“The Brandi Hudson Scholarship has meant so much to me. Without it, my college experience would have been entirely different. This scholarship has allowed me to attend an amazing university, travel while competing in a sport I love, and meet some of my best friends. I couldn't be more grateful. I'm aware that opportunities like this can be scarce for girls that look like me. I made sure not to take it for granted! I am forever grateful for this scholarship, as it is the reason that i have a great foundation moving forward.”