SDS Clinical Staff Member Maria Nauman Graduates from the Gift of Life Institute

At Sierra Donor Services, we’re honored to recognize a remarkable achievement by one of our dedicated team members, Maria Nauman, Assistant Clinical Director of Organ Procurement, who has successfully graduated from the esteemed Gift of Life Institute. This rigorous and comprehensive program is designed to equip professionals in the organ, eye and tissue donation field with the skills and expertise necessary to lead in an ever-evolving and critical sector.

The Gift of Life Institute is no ordinary program. It is a multifaceted certificate course tailored to address the unique needs and challenges of donation and transplantation professionals. What sets this program apart is its collaboration with two of the world’s leading universities, the Aresty Institute of Executive Education at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Fox School of Business at Temple University. These institutions bring together a combination of cutting-edge business theory and industry-specific insights that ensure participants receive both academic rigor and practical, hands-on learning.

The program’s distinctive design merges in-person sessions, virtual classroom training, and personalized one-on-one mentoring, offering a well-rounded educational experience that prepares professionals for the dynamic demands of organ procurement and transplantation. Maria’s graduation is not only a personal achievement but a testament to the depth of training and leadership development that the Gift of Life Institute fosters.

“Each year, DCIDS selects representatives to participate in the Arts and Science of Leadership (ASOL) program offered by our OPO colleagues at Gift of Life Institute. And over the past six months, Maria Nauman has demonstrated incredible hard work and dedication throughout her ASOL experience. Her commitment to learning and growth was evident in every aspect of the program. Maria delivered an outstanding presentation this week in Philadelphia, where the students delivered their capstone projects. Maria’s project was entitled “Implementing DCIDS Referral Management”, showcasing thoughtful insight into how to implement the most effective practices within DCI Donor Services. Congratulations, Maria, on a successful capstone and on all you’ve achieved,” said Jill Grandas, Tennessee Donor Services, CEO.

Key Takeaways from the Program

The Gift of Life Institute focuses on developing both emerging and seasoned leaders by helping them master essential business concepts and leadership skills. Through this program, Maria has gained a deeper understanding and sharpened her abilities in areas critical to her role in organ procurement and transplantation, including:

• Transformational Leadership
• Change Management
• Talent Acquisition and Performance Management
• Team Building and Design Thinking

Maria’s graduation from the Gift of Life Institute marks a milestone in her already impressive career in organ procurement. With her enhanced leadership skills and deeper industry knowledge, Maria is even better positioned to continue her work in saving and improving lives through organ donation. At Sierra Donor Services, we are confident that Maria will continue to serve as a powerful example of commitment, leadership, and excellence within our organization and the donation community at large.

Congratulations, Maria! We are proud of your accomplishments and excited for the impact you will continue to make in the lives of others. 💙

If Maria’s story inspires you and you want to learn more about Sierra Donor Services and the work we do, please reach out to us. We are always looking for passionate, driven individuals who are committed to making a difference.