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Hayley Heckmann

RN, MSN, MBA, CPTC
In 2025, I am answering the call to... optimize program efficiencies for streamlined operations.
Job Title: Director, Compliance and Development
Organization: DonorConnect
Age: 37
Years in Donation and Transplantation: 9
What makes your career in organ donation and transplantation special? Working in organ donation has been such a gift, and every day feels like a new opportunity to contribute in both small and large ways. Holding space and working with families as they navigate such an incredibly difficult and transitional experience is important, and I sincerely value knowing my colleagues and I share that sentiment. This work centers around the truth that everyone deserves dignity and respect through end-of-life planning, including when that means providing an opportunity for embracing the donation legacy and associated grief support.

Biography

Hayley Heckmann, RN, MSN, MBA, CPTC, serves as the Director of Compliance and Development at DonorConnect, where she leads cross-functional teams focused on organizational excellence, regulatory compliance, and clinical education. With a decade of experience in nursing and nine years in the donation field, Heckmann is a transformative leader committed to empowering professionals and optimizing quality throughout the organ recovery process.

She was nominated for The Alliance 40 Under 40 by Camron Dovalina, Chief Clinical Officer at DonorConnect. “Hayley is an exceptional leader who inspires and motivates others through a powerful vision and clear direction,” Dovalina shared. “She brings people and departments together through collaboration and empathy, always leading with integrity and authenticity.”

Heckmann’s early experience as a clinical coordinator introduced her to the meaningful integration of palliative care, advocacy, and education in organ procurement. Guided by influential nursing mentors, she quickly stepped into leadership roles and began championing workforce development and clinical standards.

At DonorConnect, she has led the design and implementation of a comprehensive staff education program, enhanced internal compliance frameworks, and developed continuous improvement protocols that have elevated organizational accountability. Her leadership has helped ensure that DonorConnect’s operations remain aligned with evolving regulatory expectations and industry best practices.

Heckmann’s dual Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration degrees have allowed her to bridge clinical insight with systems-level thinking. She is recognized within her organization for her transparent communication style, strategic mindset, and unwavering commitment to staff development.

Hayley Heckmann is shaping the future of donation through operational clarity, collaborative leadership, and an enduring focus on people. Her influence extends across clinical, educational, and compliance domains — creating sustainable infrastructure to support both performance and purpose.

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