Influential Woman · We Care Solar

Laura Stachel

Physician

Editor, UC Berkeley Wellness Letter, UC Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Public Health School (since 2002) Degree Conservatory of Music for Piano Cert Physician Cert Obstetrician-Gynecologist

Her Story

About Laura

I've dedicated my career to improving maternal health and public health outcomes. I spent about 14 years as an obstetrician-gynecologist before transitioning to public health school in 2002. In 2008, I began the work that would become We Care Solar, which officially opened as a nonprofit in 2010. For the past 15-16 years, I've served as co-founder and executive of We Care Solar, an organization whose motto is 'we bring the power to save lives' because we believe no woman should die giving life. I also serve as editor of the Berkeley Wellness Letter. Currently, I'm working on major projects including writing a book and producing a documentary about We Care Solar, as well as planning a concert tour in Africa and Europe. I work around the clock, often 18-hour days, driven by passion for this work. Even in my 70s, I feel really excited that I have the opportunity to do this kind of work.

Quick Facts

IndustryWe Care Solar
Based inBerkeley, CA
Specialty We Care Solar, Maternal Health, Public Health
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Volunteers with Volunteer body worker for grief and dying retreat

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Laura

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to having a very strong work ethic and being passionate about the things that I do. My motto is 'no means yes' - if there's something I really want to get done, I find a way to make it happen. I have an indefatigable intensity and determination to have success. I think what's important is to have passion for your work and love what you're doing. I try to stay grounded by doing meditation, by doing exercise every day, by being a good listener to people, and trying to listen before I react to things. I also focus on having very clear goals and trying to ensure that I'm on track to do those.

02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me in my work and personal life are openness and transparency, empathy, collaboration, and understanding. I also value being a continual learner and having curiosity. These principles guide how I approach both my professional work with We Care Solar and my personal relationships.

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