Dawne Widener-Burrows

B.S. Journalism/Public Relations , 1976

Founder, WBA Research, Inc. and Widener Research, LLC
Vice President and Director of Research at Needham, Harper & Steers (now DDB)

Hall of Fame 2025

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Dawne Widener-Burrows is the founder of two prominent communications and advertising research firms in the Washington-Baltimore area: WBA Research, Inc. (established in 1987) and Widener Research, LLC (established in 2005). WBA Research quickly became one of the largest market research firms in the Mid-Atlantic region, serving clients such as the got milk? campaign, National Public Radio, The Washington Post, and Johns Hopkins University.

Before launching her businesses, Widener-Burrows was Vice President and Director of Research at Needham, Harper & Steers (now DDB), where she worked on award-winning advertising campaigns for McDonald’s.

A dedicated supporter of UFCJC, she has served on the CJC Advertising Advisory Council for 11 years, culminating in her role as chair. She also contributed to establishing The Agency at UF and was appointed to the CJC Dean’s Leadership Council in 2024.

Widener-Burrows is actively involved in nonprofit work, particularly with the Spina Bifida Association (SBA), where she serves on the Board of Trustees. Her research for SBA has been published in multiple medical journals and presented at national conferences.

Amid her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Dawne remains committed to education and mentorship. She and her husband Larry have been long-term sponsors of many US Naval Academy midshipmen and women, offering guidance, support, and a home away from home for students.