SXU Alumna Turns Passion into Entrepreneurial Career
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alumna Vania Hudson '96 is executing entrepreneurial accomplishments in multiple areas – she's publishing a poetry book, launching a fitness app, and taking on the role of franchisee of Wine Crawl Chicago South Suburbs, all while leading her own digital marketing firm, Sweetness Communications, and helping patients as a certified cancer trainer.
Though Hudson spent a few years figuring out which subject area she wanted to pursue, she eventually landed on English and liberal studies, and she began her undergraduate career at Saint Xavier's weekend college in 1992. As a single parent with a full-time job, Hudson needed a program that would provide flexibility and faculty who would provide support, both of which she found at Saint Xavier. A literature buff who loves reading, writing, and editing, Hudson found her SXU professors to be excellent mentors who offered important insight on the richness of literature from every spectrum.
"My professors were so compassionate and willing to build relationships and mentor us. That's also what I loved about the small population – it truly felt like a close-knit family at Saint Xavier. The professors really took me under their wings and wanted to see me succeed, and that felt huge," said Hudson.
Hudson was part of Saint Xavier's inaugural Student Success Program in 1993, which she found to be a very enlightening experience. She enjoyed working with other non-traditional students and appreciated how much support she received in the classroom.
Upon graduating, Hudson entered the corporate world and began working in marketing for software companies, but she reached a turning point after experiencing some burnout and decided to pursue her passions and dedicate her life to giving back. Earning a master's degree in exercise science and sports nutrition, Hudson became certified to teach cancer exercise. Hudson finds that SXU's Mercy mission was deeply ingrained in her life as she began this new chapter.
"After my mom got very ill, I needed to take a step back from the corporate world and return home to be a caregiver. As I took care of her, I realized how meaningful it would be to me to work with people like my mom. I work with clients who need post-recovery recommendations once they are approved to exercise after chemo. It's something you have to truly be dedicated to, and I absolutely am," said Hudson.
Hudson has worked with numerous organizations, including Timothy Center, Wellness House and Gilda's Club Chicago. Her work is especially meaningful as she is a cancer survivor herself and has been cancer-free for four years.
"I think God puts things in your way to help you open your eyes and use you as a messenger," said Hudson.
Hudson's reflections about her life and experiences can be found in her upcoming poetry book, "I Am a Product," which shares her personal stories of overcoming adversity. Hudson credits one of her old SXU professors, Dr. Pat Monohan, for the inspiration.
"Dr. Monohan told me that if I really put myself to it, she could see me flourishing as a big author. I didn't think much of it as a young single mother, but I had an epiphany over the years, and I think the message you can send through poetry will really resonate with people. I did dedicate that book to her," said Hudson.
Recently, Hudson announced her latest venture as franchisee of Wine Crawl Chicago South Suburbs and looks forward to creating unforgettable experiences for clients through wine tastings. Her entrepreneurial footprint expands even further through the upcoming launch of a fitness program aimed at women over 50. The program, "From Granny to GlamMa," is a body weight and flexibility class that has helped numerous participants improve their health.
Hudson plans to try and retire before she is 70 but has lots of goals to accomplish before then. She most looks forward to being happy and healthy.
To learn more about Hudson, visit her website.