Stefanie Dziedzic is a dedicated and accomplished leader in the donation, procurement, and transplant space. Her verifiable skills include hospital partner relations, authorization and affirmation, donor family support, marketing, and fundraising.
Stefanie holds a Master of Science degree in end-of life studies from Marian University in Fond Du Lac, WI., and is a graduate of the Gift of Life Institute’s “Art and Science of Leadership: Driving Results for Donation and Transplantation Professionals.” She is also a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE).
Presently the Chief Development Officer at the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin (LEBW), Stefanie is proud to be part of the cure for corneal related visual impairments and blindness. Her current priorities include raising awareness and funds to ensure that all who need them have access to sight saving and enhancing corneal transplants, regardless of their location or economic status.
In addition to her professional achievements, Stefanie is part of a donor family, and is a transplant recipient.
Stefanie’s unique combination of academic excellence, professional certification, and firsthand experience makes her a valuable asset to any organization she serves. Her lived experience in donation, procurement, and transplantation, combined with her powerful public speaking and advocacy skills, makes her an inspirational and influential voice within the broader donation and transplant community.
Hospital Buy-in and Communication: Strengthening Hospital Partnerships Through the Huddle Process
Trust in organ, eye, and tissue donation is facing unprecedented scrutiny in light of recent media coverage and public concerns. For donation professionals, strengthening hospital partnerships has never been more vital. During this session, we will explore the role of structured “huddles” as a practical, evidence-based approach to building trust, aligning care teams, and improving donation outcomes. Best practices for enhancing the huddle process will be outlined, including defining roles, aligning messaging, anticipating challenges, and using storytelling, visuals, and technology to support collaboration. Through real-world examples, tools, and actionable strategies—including AI-enabled performance aids—donation professionals will gain practical steps to foster stronger partnerships, ensure consistent communication, and improve hospital satisfaction.