Her Story
About Kendra
Kendra Sanders is a dedicated social work professional and community advocate with six years of experience in property management and a passion for serving individuals and communities through advocacy, education, and support. She currently works full-time as a Leasing Consultant with Fogelman Properties while pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Central Florida. Kendra previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from UCF, with a focus on Public Affairs and Education and a minor in Mass Media. As part of her continued professional development, she is pursuing a Military Social Work Certificate to strengthen her trauma-informed care practice and better serve veterans, a population she feels deeply connected to through her family’s military background.
Alongside her academic and professional responsibilities, Kendra demonstrates a strong commitment to leadership and community engagement. She serves as Communications Chair for the Master of Social Work Student Association (MSWSA) at UCF, where she leads marketing and communication initiatives, and was selected as a 2026–2027 Student Ambassador for the National Association of Social Workers Florida Chapter (NASW-FL), representing UCF’s School of Social Work. Her social work journey has been shaped by her personal experiences growing up in foster care, being adopted, and overcoming stage 4 malignant melanoma skin cancer. These challenges strengthened her resilience, compassion, and dedication to supporting others through life’s most difficult moments.
Kendra has gained valuable hands-on experience through her social work internships, including her generalist placement with Orlando Health’s REACH Program, where she successfully closed more than 300 cases while supporting individuals navigating complex healthcare and social challenges. She has also contributed to community initiatives through UCF’s Center for Public and Nonprofit Management, assisting individuals experiencing homelessness and women seeking essential resources, while continuing her commitment to service through volunteer work with Husky Haven of Florida. Kendra credits her perseverance and determination to her foster mother, who fostered more than 100 children and adopted 16, serving as a lifelong example of compassion and strength. Looking ahead, Kendra aspires to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earn a doctorate in educational leadership, with the goal of mentoring students, advancing mental health advocacy, and creating lasting positive change in the lives of others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kendra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the resilience, perseverance, and strength instilled in me by my foster mother, who later adopted me and changed the course of my life. She saved my life by detecting my stage 4 skin cancer and has always been an extraordinary example of compassion and determination. Throughout her life, she fostered more than 100 children and adopted 16, dedicating herself to creating opportunities and providing care for others. Her unwavering commitment to service, her ability to overcome challenges, and her continued drive to stay active and contribute to her community, even at nearly 90 years old, continue to inspire me and shape the person I am today.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to not wait until they feel completely qualified before taking the next step. Growth, confidence, and expertise are built through experience, and many of the most valuable lessons come from stepping into opportunities and learning along the way. Every challenge, setback, and accomplishment becomes part of the journey and a story that can one day inspire and empower someone else. Believe in your abilities, embrace continuous growth, and recognize that your unique perspective is a valuable contribution.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, compassion, and service to others. I believe true influence comes from using my experiences and opportunities to create a positive impact, support others, and open doors for those who may not have had the same opportunities. I strive to lead with empathy, authenticity, and purpose, leaving people better than I found them and building a legacy defined by character, kindness, and meaningful contributions.
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