Stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors you never expected. That was the message University of West Georgia student Maria Mendes received to the tune of a $1,500 scholarship when she joined keynote speaker Durran Dunn onstage recently at UWG’s 2025 Black History in Business Luncheon.
Hosted by the Richards College of Business, presented by Southwire and sponsored by the City of Hope, this annual event celebrates Black leadership and entrepreneurship. Dunn shared his journey from Jamaica to Wall Street while challenging the audience to embrace principles that shaped his own success.
“Black History Month is an opportunity to intentionally reflect on the resilience, achievements and lasting contributions of African Americans,” said Dr. Christopher Johnson, dean of the Richards College of Business. “Durran Dunn’s remarkable journey – spanning the worlds of accounting, athletics, business and leadership – is a testament to the power of diligence, vision and perseverance.”
This year’s theme, “Work that Inspires, Leadership that Endures,” underscored the vital role of Black entrepreneurs in shaping industries and paving the way for future generations.
Near the end of his keynote address, Dunn asked for a student in the audience to join him on stage. Mendes, not knowing what she agreed to, volunteered, introducing herself to the audience and sharing that she is an entrepreneur.
To reward Mendes for her courage in stepping out of her comfort zone and speaking before the crowd, Dunn awarded the mass communications major with a $1,500 scholarship to assist her in continuing her studies.
Caleb Murphy, UWG finance major and Dunn mentee in the C-Suite Mentorship program, introduced Dunn, a Forbes’ top CPA of 2024, who would share insights on navigating business challenges and capitalizing on opportunities.
“I’m fortunate to have Durran Dunn as my mentor,” Murphy said. “He not only inspires me as an aspiring business executive but also exemplifies excellence in every aspect of his career and life.”
Taking the stage with enthusiasm, Dunn greeted the audience warmly and began reflecting on growing up in Kingston, Jamaica.
“When people think of Kingston, they imagine beaches and great food,” Dunn said. “I was just trying to survive every day.”
When he was 12 years old, Dunn’s mother moved to the United States in search of better opportunities, leaving him behind. Determined to create a better future, he pursued education and athletics, excelling in track and field at Jamaica College. Those talents eventually led him to the U.S., where he spent a year in New York before securing a job on Wall Street.
During this journey in business and athletics, Dunn developed what he calls his “Four-Point Play”—a framework for success built on belief, commitment, resilience and relationships.
“Success isn’t just about talent or opportunity,” Dunn said. “It’s about the mindset you bring to the table every single day. These four principles have guided me through every challenge.”
Highlights from Dunn’s Four-Point Play
I. Belief
“If you don’t even believe in yourself, then why should somebody believe in you?” he asked the audience. “More people fear taking that step instead of betting on themselves.”
To illustrate, Dunn shared a personal anecdote about his role as The Freeze for the Atlanta Braves.
“Some of you have been to a Braves game and seen me run. That run lasts about 18 or 19 seconds, but the preparation takes months.”
II. Commitment
“Most successful businesspeople, athletes and entertainers share this trait of discipline and the ability to focus,” he said. “The ability to block out distractions and stay true to your goals is crucial.”
For example, his grueling training routine begins before the sun rises.
“People ask me how I juggle everything—work, family, training,” he said. “Here’s the truth: I get up at 4:15 a.m. and wait for the gym to open. And why do I [workout] so early? Because every second counts. I want to help my kids get ready for school. I don’t want to miss those moments. If you’re not willing to make sacrifices, you won’t reach your goals.”
III. Resilience
Dunn acknowledged that failure is an inevitable part of success and even recounted a time he was passed over for a promotion.
“Most people take that as a sign to stop,” he confessed. “Instead, I changed my computer password to reflect my goal and kept pushing forward. Within 90 days, I got promoted.”
For Dunn, setbacks have been just as valuable as successes, shaping his approach to resilience.
“I have failed much more often than I’ve succeeded, but each setback has only made me stronger,” he added. “Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about learning from it and pushing forward.”
IV. Relationships
Beyond personal success, Dunn stressed the importance of relationships. He highlighted the role of mentors in shaping his journey and encouraged students to seek out those who inspire and guide them.
“You cannot do this alone,” he advised. “Surround yourself with people who believe in you, challenge you, and push you to be better. Find people who will help you unlock doors and show you what’s possible.”
