At the intersection of compassion, purpose, and leadership stands DeNiece Harrison-Hudson, a powerhouse in both the corporate and community arenas. By day, she leads Community Affairs efforts in the financial services industry at OneAmerica Financial. By night, she proudly wears the title of “Mom” to her bright and beautiful 10-year-old daughter.
Fueling Her Mission: From Humble Beginnings to Purpose-Driven Leadership
DeNiece’s journey is rooted in her own experience growing up on the near eastside of Indianapolis. Raised by a single mother alongside three siblings, she faced homelessness, food insecurity, and hardship. Yet through it all, she discovered a powerful truth: “The only thing I could control was my education.” She excelled in school, becoming a top student year after year despite the odds.
Her turning point came through a community center that became her second family—staff who poured into her dreams, guided her college aspirations, and affirmed her worth. “That support changed everything for me,” she reflects. “It truly takes a village.”
Building Bridges Through Community Affairs
Since 2019, DeNiece has been leading community affairs at OneAmerica Financial. One of her proudest achievements is launching a program designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity in Central Indianapolis.
This initiative addresses barriers young people face—offering job opportunities, mentorship, and ongoing engagement that opens doors to corporate spaces many thought unreachable. Through strategic grantmaking and intentional community partnerships, her work uplifts nonprofits and plants seeds of change across the city.
Championing Financial Empowerment
Among OneAmerica Financial’s most impactful contributions is its free financial literacy program, Know Yourself, Grow Your Wealth. Offered through local nonprofits, the course equips individuals with the knowledge to build economic stability and take control of their financial future.
DeNiece couldn’t be prouder of working at a company whose values mirror her own: “We believe in economic empowerment for everyone—and we’re taking real steps to make that happen.”
Self-Care & Strength
Outside of work, DeNiece prioritizes self-care in simple but meaningful ways. “I love massages, reading, and trying new activities with my mini-me,” she shares. Her favorite reads include Finding Me by Viola Davis and The Four Agreements.
Though life has presented her with tremendous challenges—including the sudden loss of her brother and the ups and downs of single motherhood—DeNiece chooses joy daily. “There’s always something to learn from pain. It’s all about your mindset.”
A Decade of Impact—and Still Growing
This year marks a milestone: DeNiece’s 10-year anniversary at OneAmerica Financial. She was recently honored with the Excellence in Execution award—an achievement that symbolizes her dedication and drive.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, DeNiece plans to continue growing as both a person and leader. As her team expands, so does her vision. “I want to be the kind of leader who truly develops others and creates space for people to thrive.”
You can catch OneAmerica Financial in action at the upcoming Broad Ripple Art Fair, May 17–18, proudly sponsored by the OneAmerica Financial Foundation.
Connect with DeNiece
📍 Indianapolis, IN
🔗 LinkedIn – Search: DeNiece Harrison-Hudson
