Her Story
About Orlanda
Dr. Orlanda Whitfield, EdD, is the Founder and Director of HelloJoy Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering single mothers through mentorship, leadership development, and community support. With more than 27 years of professional experience spanning education, nonprofit leadership, communications, and entrepreneurship, she has built a career centered on helping individuals recognize their potential and create meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth. In addition to leading HelloJoy Inc., she has served as a Communications Technician at CenturyLink since 1999 and is the owner of Still Poppin Gourmet Popcorn, successfully balancing business ownership with a lifelong commitment to service.
Dr. Whitfield earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the College of Saint Mary, along with a master's degree in Organizational Leadership from the same institution and a Master of Science in Adult Education from Peru State College. Throughout her career, she has taught as an adjunct instructor and professor at both the College of Saint Mary and Doane University, where she inspired students in leadership, communication, organizational behavior, and professional development. She also serves as Board Chair of the Omaha Cares Mentoring Movement and has been a board member of Pink Lotus, supporting cancer survivors through advocacy and community engagement.
Driven by her faith, passion for lifelong learning, and dedication to mentorship, Dr. Whitfield believes that leadership is rooted in service, resilience, and empowering others to write their own stories. Her personal journey as a single mother has shaped her commitment to helping women overcome barriers, reject limiting labels, and pursue their goals with confidence. Whether mentoring future leaders, expanding opportunities through HelloJoy Inc., or serving her community, Dr. Whitfield continues to inspire others through compassionate leadership, unwavering perseverance, and a belief that lasting success is measured by the lives uplifted along the way.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Orlanda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, a lifelong commitment to learning, and the motivation I have received from my children. I believe education is a lifelong journey, and my passion for continually growing has helped shape both my personal and professional life. My children taught me the meaning of unconditional love and inspired me to become the best version of myself while remaining committed to serving others through leadership, education, and mentorship.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is "Never quit." That mindset has guided me throughout my career, helping me persevere through challenges, pursue advanced education while raising my family, build a successful business, and remain dedicated to a career that began in 1999. I believe persistence is often the difference between simply having goals and achieving them.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to create their own narrative rather than allowing others to define who they are. Do not let negative labels or societal expectations limit your potential. Continue learning, invest in your education, remain resilient through challenges, and never stop believing in your ability to grow. Leadership begins with confidence, purpose, and a willingness to keep moving forward despite obstacles.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in nonprofit leadership is securing sustainable funding while balancing organizational growth with responsible governance and board oversight. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to build stronger community-based programs that empower women, particularly single mothers, through mentorship, leadership development, education, and meaningful support networks that help them create lasting change in their lives.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are faith, lifelong learning, service, mentorship, perseverance, and compassion. I believe leadership is rooted in humility and a genuine desire to help others succeed. Whether I am teaching, mentoring, leading a nonprofit, or serving my community, my goal is to empower others to recognize their potential, embrace resilience, and create positive change in their own lives.
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