Her Story
About LaTisha
I transitioned into the data and analytics field in 2022, bringing with me over a decade of experience in education as a teacher and administrator. With an undergraduate degree in mathematics, I consistently leveraged data to drive strategic outcomes and support students, educators, and families, well before formally entering the analytics profession.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I recognized that my work had long been rooted in data analysis. I formalized this expertise by completing a data science and analytics boot camp through Columbia University, which enabled my transition into healthcare analytics. I began my career at New York-Presbyterian Hospital within the Dalio Center for Health Justice, where I supported initiatives focused on health equity and the integration of social determinants of health.
I now serve as Manager of Data and Analytics at Planned Parenthood Northern California, where I lead daily team operations and collaborate closely with executive leadership to prioritize enterprise-wide initiatives. My work spans from patient encounter reporting to the development of advanced dashboards, including the Priority Populations Report, an analytics tool designed to identify and support vulnerable patient populations based on clinical outcomes and socioeconomic factors such as race, ethnicity, language, and geography. This enables more strategic and equitable care delivery across a broad service area from San Ramon to the Oregon border.
I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in data science at Eastern University, with a focus on machine learning and artificial intelligence to further enhance data-driven innovation in healthcare.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LaTisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep commitment to continuous learning, discipline, and consistency. I firmly believe that growth is ongoing. You can always evolve, refine your craft, and expand your impact.
I approach every goal with intention and accountability, knowing that sustained effort and focus drive meaningful results. This is a principle I not only live by, but also instill in others: set clear goals, remain disciplined, and stay consistent. The outcomes will follow.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to invest in your network before you need it. Relationships are one of the most valuable assets in any career. They open doors, provide perspective, and create opportunities that you may not access on your own.
Networking is not just about making connections; it’s about building genuine, mutually supportive relationships over time. Some of the most pivotal moments in my career have come from conversations, mentorship, and connections that helped guide my next step.
Strong networks don’t just advance your career. They challenge you, support you, and expand your vision of what’s possible.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask for support, build your network, and take decisive action. Growth often requires stepping outside of your comfort zone.
When I transitioned careers after more than a decade in education, I experienced imposter syndrome and initially allowed fear to hold me back, even turning down a significant opportunity. That moment became a turning point. I made a commitment that I would no longer let fear dictate my decisions.
Since then, I have approached every opportunity with confidence and intention. My advice is simple: don’t let fear paralyze you. The greatest growth often comes from the risks you’re willing to take.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Success in data analytics requires both strong technical expertise and well-developed communication skills. While coding and data proficiency are essential, the ability to clearly interpret, present, and translate data into meaningful insights is equally critical.
My background in education strengthened my ability to communicate complex information effectively across diverse audiences. This has been a key differentiator, enabling me not only to analyze data, but to tell compelling, actionable stories that drive decision-making.
For those entering the field, I strongly emphasize investing in both technical and soft skills. Presentation, public speaking, and tools such as PowerPoint and Excel are not secondary. They are essential. Data alone is not enough; the true impact comes from how effectively you communicate the story behind it.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are integrity, continuous growth, discipline, and impact. I believe in showing up with honesty and accountability in everything I do, whether professionally or personally.
Continuous learning is a core value that drives me. I am always seeking to evolve, improve, and expand my knowledge. Discipline and consistency keep me grounded, ensuring that I follow through on my commitments and goals.
Above all, I value impact. In both my work and personal life, I strive to make a meaningful difference. Whether that’s supporting my team, advancing health equity, or positively influencing the lives of others.
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