Board Member Highlight: Donna Chen
Donna Chen, Chair, Leadership Hillsborough
Donna Chen, Chair, Leadership Hillsborough
Donna is the Community Relations Manager for Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART). Prior to that position she served for four years as the Business Development Specialist at HART.
Most Memorable LH Moment
A graduate of the class of 2006-2007, Donna has been a member of Leadership Hillsborough for four years, serving on the Board of Directors, holding several different positions for the past three years. A memory that stands out in her mind as being one of the most notable moments was attending the Change of Command Ceremony for fellow class member, Major Grant Izzi at MacDill Air Force Base. It was a very moving experience.
Professional Experience
Before moving to Tampa Donna worked for Downtown Oak Park, a Chicago area downtown association that managed and marketed the historic, central business district. In her role as the executive director she honed her skills in marketing and nonprofit management. As a community leader, she discovered her strengths in developing strategic partnerships and consensus building.
Leadership Tips
Significant achievement is seldom a solo act. We asked Donna about key relationships that helped her professionally. Donna responded, “I believe you can learn from everyone around you by keeping an open mind. My family, friends and co-workers have been instrumental in my career and personal growth. I also have benefitted from personal coaches and interestingly, a self hypnosis instructor. But my most valued mentor is my husband, Mike, who recognizes my strengths and encourages me to be my best.”
Leadership Hillsborough is dedicated to the development of leaders. We asked Donna for any coaching tips she may have for aspiring managers. “The Leadership Hillsborough program is a great way to develop your leadership skills while learning about Hillsborough County. Also, continue to work with your support network and mentors throughout your career. Never stop learning.”
Donna offers this final leadership tip: “Know and leverage your strengths and the strengths of others. Become an expert listener and keep people engaged.”
Personal Tidbits
As the old adage goes, all work and no play… Donna was trained classically in music, and also played guitar with a Chicago blues band. She likes to read old Russian authors, spends time watching movies with her husband, and is proud of her two grown children who are in the television production industry in Los Angeles.
Leadership Hillsborough is thankful to have Donna as the current Chair.
