On October 8, 2025, DSC Consulting celebrates its first business anniversary—marking one full year since founder Dr. Dana Starr Cummings launched the firm and stepped into the world of entrepreneurship. It’s a milestone that brings with it a mix of joy, reflection, and deep gratitude.
The past twelve months have been filled with powerful moments—meaningful client work, new partnerships, and the steady evolution of a dream turned reality. There have also been plenty of challenges. Leaving a steady role inside an organization, complete with a reliable monthly paycheck, was scary. As Dana puts it, “Making sure I continue to provide for my family is always at the front of my mind—and now, that’s tied directly to my ability and willingness to get up every day and hustle.”
It hasn’t been easy—but it’s been worth it. For Dana, DSC has become something more than a business. It’s a platform for influence—a space for women to lead and a place where consulting isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about building a firm with heart.
In August 2025, Dana was joined by longtime friend and colleague Andrea Gash, who came on board as business partner and Senior Consultant. Together, they’re shaping DSC into a women-led, mission-driven consulting firm committed to helping organizations thrive—and to modeling a kind of leadership culture that centers integrity, flexibility, and trust.
“What we’re building at DSC is really special,” says Andrea. “We’re clear about our values, committed to our clients, and we deeply believe in doing work that matters. I couldn’t be more excited to be on this journey.”
That journey is rooted not just in experience, but in scholarship and purpose. Dana’s doctoral dissertation—Spinning Plates: A Qualitative Study of Women’s Experiences Pursuing Leadership Roles in Higher Education—explored the barriers women face in rising to leadership, and what’s possible when they are genuinely supported. DSC Consulting is, in many ways, a real-world expression of that work.
“I’ve always believed that everyone benefits when women are empowered to lead,” Dana says. “Their families benefit, their organizations benefit, and entire communities benefit. One of my goals as we scale is to create a workplace where women can do their best work without sacrificing who they are.”
Last month, Dana and Andrea met with a trusted facilitator to map out goals for 2026 and beyond. Their vision is bold, future-focused, and full of possibility. They’re aiming to grow DSC into a firm that not only delivers outstanding work for clients, but also creates space for smart, capable women to thrive professionally—on their own terms.
To every client, partner, friend, family member, and supporter who’s helped make this first year possible: thank you. We wouldn’t be here without you—and we’re just getting started.
