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Long before she was leading global companies, Deborah Overdeput built the foundation for her career at the �鶹app. It’s a place she still credits with shaping how she approaches problems and leadership today.

That impact has come full circle as she has been named the recipient of the 2026 College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS) Distinguished Alumni Award, an honor recognizing outstanding contributions in engineering, science, or mathematics that enhance the reputation of the university.

“I am genuinely honored and humbled to receive this recognition,” says Overdeput, who has a proven track record of scaling organizations across fintech, data and professional services. “UNH has been an important part of my life, and it means a great deal to be recognized for staying involved and giving back.”

Overdeput currently serves as chief operating officer at Innovative Systems, where she leads global commercial and product strategy for financial crime and data solutions. She is also the founder of DO Marketing Services, advising companies on growth strategy and market positioning, and a board advisor to Loresse.ai, an enterprise AI platform. She was recently named to the TechRound50 “Women in Startups & Tech” list and is the co-author of Walk Away: Step Out to Step Up, which explores career-defining decisions and leadership.

“UNH gave me a foundation in how to think, not just what to learn,” Overdeput says. “Studying interdisciplinary mathematics taught me to approach problems from multiple angles, which became critical in every role I’ve had.”

Overdeput began her career as an engineer developing fault-tolerant systems for space missions before transitioning into business leadership. Throughout her career, she says she has been most proud of the impact she has had on others.

“Building businesses and driving growth matters, but what stays with me is developing teams, mentoring individuals, and helping others see what they’re capable of,” she says.

That commitment to people and mentorship has remained central to her connection to UNH. Overdeput serves as chair of the CEPS Advisory Board and has mentored a different UNH student every year since around 2010.

Her continued engagement reflects the same sense of community she experienced as a student—working through difficult problems with classmates and the satisfaction that came when everything finally clicked.

“There was a strong sense of community and shared effort that I’ve never forgotten,” says Overdeput. “It wasn’t always easy, but it taught me what you can accomplish when you’re willing to stay in the room and do the work.”

For current students, her advice is rooted in her own experience navigating a nonlinear career path.

“Don’t feel like you have to have it all figured out,” she says. “Careers are rarely linear. Focus on building strong fundamentals, stay curious, and be open to opportunities that don’t look like your original plan. Trust yourself. There will be moments when something doesn't feel right. Pay attention to that. Some of the most defining decisions in my career came from having the courage to change direction.”