Jen Zundel, MS, serves as Administrator for Critical Care at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening partnerships between intensive care and transplant services. With two years of focused experience in the donation and transplantation field, she has quickly distinguished herself through her dedication to advancing donor management, enhancing interdepartmental collaboration, and championing a culture of respect for donor families and clinical teams alike.
She was nominated for The Alliance 40 Under 40 by Katie McKee, Transplant Administrator at Mayo Clinic. McKee shared that “Jen’s leadership has directly influenced the success of organ donation within our health system. Her thoughtful coordination between ICU teams and the donation process has elevated our outcomes and deepened our institutional commitment to honoring the gift of life.”
Zundel brings both administrative expertise and a deep personal commitment to her work. As a systems-level leader, she focuses on optimizing clinical workflows, ensuring regulatory alignment, and fostering strong communication between donor hospitals and organ procurement organizations. Her colleagues describe her as a bridge builder — someone who brings clarity and cohesion to complex, high-stakes environments.
In her own words, Zundel describes her work as “profoundly meaningful,” citing the privilege of supporting donor families and care teams during some of the most important and emotional moments in healthcare. Her leadership reflects a blend of operational insight, emotional intelligence, and unwavering respect for the donation process.
Jen Zundel is helping shape a more connected and compassionate future for donation and transplantation. Her impact is already being felt across Mayo Clinic and beyond, as she continues to lead with both heart and precision.