Her Story
About Crystal
Crystal Laqua serves as Regional Director of Operations in healthcare, bringing nearly two decades of experience in healthcare administration, clinical operations, and organizational leadership. She began her career in the industry in 2006 after earning a degree in Healthcare Administration Management, initially pursuing nursing before transitioning into healthcare leadership. Throughout her career, Laqua has gained diverse experience across a variety of specialties, including administration at Sutter Health, dermatology, Mohs surgery, nephrology, endocrinology, occupational medicine, concierge healthcare, women’s health, and pediatrics.
In her current role, Laqua oversees regional healthcare operations, supporting clinics throughout the Bay Area by partnering with staff and providers to improve processes, enhance patient care, and strengthen team performance. Her responsibilities include leading operational meetings, collaborating with executive leadership, facilitating team huddles, and developing initiatives that promote professional growth, including a women in leadership program designed to mentor and empower future leaders. Earlier in her career, she found great fulfillment working with a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the homeless population in Las Vegas, an experience that reinforced her commitment to accessible and compassionate healthcare.
Laqua is continuing her professional growth by pursuing an RN program with an expected graduation in 2028, with future aspirations of serving on boards and advocating for nurses’ rights. She credits her success to the strong work ethic modeled by her parents, particularly her father’s dedication and career progression, which inspired her own commitment to excellence. Guided by the values of honesty and accountability, Laqua recognizes the challenges women and women of color face in traditionally male-dominated fields, but encourages young women entering healthcare to remain focused, build resilience, embrace challenges, and stay patient as they pursue their passions.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Crystal
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong example set by my parents, whose dedication, work ethic, and commitment to personal growth shaped my values and ambitions. Watching their hard work and career progression, especially my father’s determination and rapid advancement, inspired me to pursue excellence and continuously strive for improvement. I am also grateful for the unwavering support my parents provided throughout my educational journey, encouraging me to pursue opportunities that helped me grow personally and professionally. Their guidance, sacrifices, and belief in my potential have been foundational to my achievements and continue to motivate me to reach new goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is that earning respect is far more important than simply being liked. This perspective has guided the way I approach my work, relationships, and leadership, reminding me to stay true to my values and maintain professionalism in every situation. I believe that honesty and accountability are essential qualities for building trust and achieving long-term success, both personally and professionally. By consistently acting with integrity, taking ownership of my responsibilities, and treating others with respect, I have been able to create meaningful relationships and make a positive impact throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to stay focused, develop resilience, and build the confidence to navigate challenges with a thick skin. Be patient with your growth, remain committed to your goals, and do not allow setbacks to discourage you. Most importantly, follow your passion and trust the process, because when you pursue work that genuinely inspires you, everything will ultimately work out in your favor.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the field continues to be navigating a traditionally male-dominated environment, particularly when it comes to increasing representation and recognition of women and women of color. There are still instances where qualifications and expertise may be overlooked, requiring women to work harder to have their voices heard and their contributions acknowledged. While these challenges remain, they also present opportunities to advocate for greater inclusion, create pathways for future generations, and continue breaking barriers within the industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty and accountability. I believe in being transparent, maintaining integrity in my actions, and taking responsibility for my decisions and commitments. These values guide how I build trust with others, approach challenges, and strive to make a positive impact in everything I do.
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