When asked to describe a typical day, Lisa Nguyen ponders, “Is there even such a thing at a UC? In a role as dynamic as mine, there’s never a dull moment. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
As director of digital marketing for the UC Davis Graduate School of Management, Lisa’s days are a whirlwind of creativity, analysis and collaboration. One day, you might catch her tapping into her graphic design background, crafting eye-catching digital ads to entice talented individuals to join UC Davis’ esteemed graduate programs. The next, she could be knee-deep in data, deciphering the secrets hidden within website analytics and email marketing metrics. “It’s like being a digital detective, uncovering what content resonates best with our target audiences,” she says.
And, she’s quick to point out, she’s always in good company. “Every day, I have the pleasure of collaborating with an incredible group of staff, students, alumni and faculty. We brainstorm and exchange ideas and, then, together, we deliver our absolute best to recruit top-tier students, staff and faculty. The projects I’m particularly proud of are those where our collective efforts come to life: successful recruitment campaigns that bring in talented individuals who will shape the future of business and innovation; data-driven strategies that yield remarkable results; the easy-to-navigate website that factors into a student’s decision.”
In addition to her higher education experience, Lisa has worked as a marketing and communications expert in sustainable transportation, advocating the commercialization of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles; in the aerospace industry, supporting NASA launches; and as a consultant for food and agriculture companies.
“I’ve had some exciting experiences in these industries, but I chose to work at UC because this is a place where ideas clash, minds collide and innovation runs rampant. Curiosity is not just accepted but encouraged. I wanted to be a part of that energy, where every day brings new challenges and a chance to explore new solutions. Working in higher ed means being surrounded by bright minds, hungry for growth and eager to make their mark on the world. The enthusiasm is infectious and being able to contribute to someone else’s educational journey is a reward in itself,” she says.
Equally important, Lisa adds, is “being able to bring my authentic self to work every single day. I can unleash my creativity, share my ideas and contribute with the full force of my personality. It’s liberating and inspiring, and it brings out the best in me. At the same time, I feel accepted and appreciated for who I truly am. And I hope that I inspire others to do the same.”
Lisa and her father at the 2016 hockey game when the
Pittsburgh Penguins won the Stanley Cup
Meet Lisa
Name: Lisa Nguyen
Title: Director of Digital Marketing
Department/unit: Graduate School of Management
Location: UC Davis
When did you start working for UC? 2016
In five words or less, what do you do for UC? Bring the best and brightest
Why do you love working for UC? The welcoming and vibrant community, combined with the opportunity to support exceptional students, staff and faculty through digital marketing fuels my passion. Each day, I immerse myself in strategic initiatives that yield tangible results, drawing inspiration from the remarkable talent surrounding me. The university also offers a wide range of training opportunities that keep me on my toes and help me grow professionally.
What’s something people don’t know about you? I’m an unabashed hockey fan, and my heart belongs to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In 2016, I had the incredible opportunity to be just two rows from the ice in San Jose when the Penguins clinched the Stanley Cup. Talk about a dream come true and a bucket list item checked off.
Who’s your dream dinner guest (living or dead) and why? I would love to have dinner with my deceased dad again. He was a hard-working, loyal man who dedicated 35 years of his life to General Motors as a skilled tool and die maker. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I realized how much wisdom and knowledge he had to offer. We would spend hours playing cards, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. During our late-night card games, he would often share nuggets of wisdom. His words continue to guide me, and I’m grateful for the friendship and love we shared. One simple yet powerful idea he shared was, “You never know unless you ask, and it never hurts to ask.” I’ve drawn upon this guidance in countless personal and professional situations since. It’s a reminder to find the courage to speak up, take chances and seek what I want or need.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received? Never stop learning and to bring your authentic self to work.