Dakota joined the Marketing and Communication Department in September 2022 as Marketing and Communication Manager for Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy and was promoted to University Communication Manager in January 2024. Originally from New Orleans, AL, she graduated from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a BA in Christian Ministry and from UAB with an MA in Communication Management.

Prior to her work with Samford, Dakota worked with the Jimmie Hale Mission in development and community relations. Her work with Jimmie Hale included overseeing their Young Professional Board, writing donor appeals, planning all fundraising events, and sharing client testimonies. She has also worked with Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park as a Marketing Consultant.

She and her husband, Jason, live in McCalla where they are members of Bellview Baptist Church.