From Refugee to UMKC Student: How One Journey Led to Becoming a Bestselling Author

Every year, the UMKC Alumni Association honors amazing alumni at an awards event. This year, Diana Kander (B.A. ’02) received the Class of 2025 Defying the Odds Award.

Diana lives by the motto: “Try Hard, Never Quit, Have Fun.” This mantra has guided her through many challenges. She fled the Soviet Union at just 8 years old, excelled in debate as a scholarship student, and graduated from UMKC in only two and a half years. Later, she became a Georgetown-trained lawyer, a university professor, and the founder of ten companies. She also advises major corporations and government agencies, all while being a New York Times bestselling author.

Diana reflects on her journey, saying, “I came from a place that valued conformity and memorization. UMKC nurtured my entrepreneurial spirit and showed me what was possible in America.”

What drives your entrepreneurial journey?

As a young girl, I often felt out of place. It made me curious. I learned to question everything because it was the only way to find my own path. Now, that curiosity still fuels me. It helps me see new possibilities and challenge the status quo.

What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs today?

You don’t have to quit your job right away or invest all your money in your idea. Start small. There are many ways to test and refine your ideas before taking the big plunge. Build a foundation first to increase your chances of success.

What is your favorite memory from UMKC?

My favorite memory is when my husband, Jason Kander, took a semester at UMKC. We got to attend classes together, which was special. Being part of the debate team also helped me build confidence and friendships as I began college.

What is your proudest achievement?

I’m most proud of my work as an author, consultant, and speaker. It gives me the chance to do what I love while spending time with my family. My parents worked hard to give me and my sister a better life, and I’m proud to honor their sacrifice by making the most of the opportunities I’ve had.