Leading from the Heart

“This work isn’t just a career for me—it’s a calling,” said Lacey Felder, a program manager at Donate Life California who dreams of becoming CEO. “This organization and its mission are deeply personal to me, and I want to continue serving it at the highest level.” 

Lacey is the recipient of both a heart and kidney transplant—a life-changing gift that she said not only shaped who she is, but also became the force behind her life’s work. 

“From a young age, I began sharing my story and advocating for donation awareness,” she said. “Those early experiences made it clear that my purpose was to help others—especially those navigating health challenges—and to use my voice to educate and uplift. At Donate Life California, my personal journey and professional mission come full circle.” 

Looking to take the next step toward fulfilling her dreams, Lacey turned to the Executive Leadership Program at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education to build on her existing leadership experience. 

“It was an opportunity to intentionally prepare for the kind of servant leadership I aspire to bring to the role in the future,” she said. “The Executive Leadership Program gave me the tools to strengthen my strategic thinking, develop a more confident leadership voice and approach organizational challenges with a broader perspective.” 

I wish I had known just how personally impactful the program would be. It’s about discovering more of who you are as a leader and leaving with the confidence to grow into who you’re meant to become."

Tell us more about yourself and what motivates you. 

I’m a passionate, service-driven nonprofit professional with an MPH from UCLA and more than a decade of experience in community engagement, education and event production—primarily focused on organ donation and patient advocacy. 

At Donate Life California, I’ve led statewide outreach efforts, built lasting community partnerships, overseen public campaigns and organized large-scale events that advance the life-saving message of donation. I’ve also supported and led teams, developed communications strategies, and acted as a bridge between policy, the public and the stories that matter. 

At the heart of it all, I’m driven by gratitude. I show up every day with empathy, energy and a commitment to make a difference. 

What motivated you to enroll in the Executive Leadership Program? Was there a specific challenge or goal that sparked your decision?

It was a genuine desire to grow—not just in title, but in impact. I wanted to learn from other leaders in our region, hear their experiences and gain insight into how I could show up as the best leader possible for my team and community. 

While I’ve led many programs and initiatives, I knew there was more to learn—especially when it comes to leading with strategy, clarity and vision. I was driven by both a personal goal of stepping into higher leadership and a professional responsibility to serve my organization with greater confidence and capability. 

What were you hoping to achieve by completing this program? 

I was hoping to gain a deeper understanding of what truly defines a great leader—not just in theory but in practice. I wanted to explore the skills, mindset and habits that set effective leaders apart and learn how to apply those qualities in my own work. It wasn’t just about professional growth—it was about becoming the kind of leader who inspires trust and supports others. 

How did the program help you move toward your goals? Did it change how you think or approach your work? 

This program truly shifted my perspective on leadership—especially around the importance of self-advocacy and owning your voice. It gave me the confidence to lead with more clarity and purpose and deepened my understanding of how to navigate challenges with resilience and integrity. I walked away with practical tools and a renewed sense of empowerment that I now carry into every aspect of my work. 

What aspects of the program did you find most valuable? 

One of the most valuable aspects was hearing the real-life experiences shared by the incredible guest speakers and instructors. Their honesty, vulnerability and wisdom brought leadership concepts to life in a way that was both inspiring and practical. 

I also found it incredibly meaningful to learn alongside leaders from such diverse backgrounds. Hearing their stories and challenges reminded me that no matter our industry or title, we’re often navigating similar issues. That sense of connection and shared growth was both comforting and empowering. 

Can you share a moment or insight from the program that really stood out to you? Something that felt like a turning point or eye-opener? 

One of the most impactful parts of the program was the leadership coaching sessions. They were truly eye-opening. Having a safe, supportive space to talk through some of my most personal professional challenges was incredibly powerful. Those conversations helped me reflect more deeply on my leadership style, my values and the barriers I sometimes place on myself. It felt like a turning point—where I not only gained clarity but also the confidence to move forward with more purpose and self-trust. 

What’s next for you? How are you applying what you’ve learned? 

This program helped me clearly identify the areas I need to focus on to reach my long-term goals, and I’m now actively working on those areas with greater intention. I’m more committed than ever to growing into the kind of leader who can guide with both confidence and compassion—and I know the tools and insights I gained through this program are helping me take those next important steps. 

What advice would you give to someone considering this program? Anything you wish you’d known before starting? 

My advice is simple: Go for it. If you’re looking for a truly transformative and introspective experience—one that will challenge you, stretch your thinking and help guide you toward your next step—this program is absolutely worth it. 

I wish I had known just how personally impactful the program would be. It’s not just about gaining new skills, it’s about discovering more of who you are as a leader and leaving with the confidence to grow into who you’re meant to become.