Sandra Chen Lau
Sandra Chen Lau has carved out a distinguished path as a vanguard in philanthropy and higher education. Her career encapsulates the essence of innovative leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing academic exploration, equity, and diversity. Throughout her journey, she has demonstrated a profound strategic insight and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence, making her a beacon of progress in her field.
Education
Sandra obtained her Master's degree in Urban Planning from UCLA, where she concentrated on Leadership, Civil Society, and Nonprofit Management. She also holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from UC Riverside, complemented by a minor in Chinese Literature. This educational background laid the groundwork for her future endeavors, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex landscapes of philanthropy and higher education.
Professional Journey
USC Arcadia Hospital Foundation
Sandra serves as president of the USC Arcadia Hospital Foundation, where her primary role involves spearheading the foundation's philanthropic activities to bolster hospital support. Her expertise in fundraising is pivotal, as she oversees the comprehensive programs and works closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to pinpoint and realize potential funding opportunities.
American Film Institute
During her tenure at the American Film Institute (AFI), Sandra was instrumental in transforming the philanthropic culture from transactional to transformative giving. Under her guidance, the organization prepared to launch a comprehensive campaign. Her leadership resulted in a notable 250% increase in donations to the AFI Conservatory, emphasizing significant gifts and individual contributions. Her strategic initiatives included advanced fundraising analytics and advocating for transformative giving, which led to substantial six-figure donations and the integration of donor data analytics into AFI's fundraising model.
Japanese American National Museum
Sandra's tenure at the Japanese American National Museum marked a period of significant expansion. She initiated an ambitious $65 million comprehensive campaign—the largest in the museum's history—and successfully secured $33 million during its initial phase. Her innovative strategies, such as transitioning to virtual galas during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in a 400% increase in annual fundraising. Her ability to adapt and modify strategies ensured the museum's financial stability and growth during challenging times.
University of Southern California - Advancement
At the USC Pacific Asia Museum, Sandra played a crucial role in boosting development efforts, leading to increased grants, memberships, and individual donations. Her efforts laid the foundation for an upcoming $45 million campaign. Additionally, she managed the Advancement team at the USC School of Architecture, ensuring cohesive and effective operational outcomes.
UCLA School of Public Affairs
Sandra began her development career at the UCLA School of Public Affairs, where she led the development team and significantly contributed to UCLA's $3.4 billion campaign. Managing a portfolio that included over $7 million in significant gift requests, she secured $1.5 million for student fellowships within just two years. Her efforts also led to a 15% increase in alum donations and a 25% rise in board contributions.
Acknowledgements and Achievements
Throughout her career, Sandra's contributions have been consistently recognized. From 2005 to 2010, she was listed in Who's Who in Asia America and participated in Leadership Southern California, reflecting her impactful leadership and commitment to excellence. These accolades highlight her influence and dedication in her field.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Sandra's dedication extends beyond her professional duties to active involvement in various community organizations. Since 2018, she has been a governing board member for the Pasadena Area Community College District and served on the board of the Los Angeles County School Trustees Association from 2019 to 2023. Her extensive involvement underscores her commitment to community service and leadership.
Sandra Chen Lau remains a pivotal figure whose influence stretches across various sectors, driving advancements in philanthropy and community engagement. Her leadership is characterized by integrity, innovation, and a commitment to inclusivity and fairness, distinguishing her as a notable leader in her industry. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate those around her, cementing her status as a key player in her field.
Portfolio: http://sandrachenlauca.com
