Her Story
About Lucinda
I’ve always believed that leadership is less about having a title and more about what you do with the influence you have.
My career in HR began in 2013, and what started as a profession quickly became a passion for helping people and organizations grow. I’m naturally curious and a lifelong learner, so I’m always asking questions, looking for a better way to do something, and finding opportunities to grow—both personally and professionally. That mindset has continued to shape my journey, from building my career in HR to pursuing graduate work in Organizational Leadership and Development.
But some of the experiences that have shaped me most have happened outside of my job. Through SHRM, Rotary, nonprofit leadership, and community service, I've learned that some of the most meaningful leadership happens when you're simply willing to show up, contribute, and help someone else succeed.
I’m especially passionate about creating opportunities for others. I’ve been fortunate to have people who encouraged me, opened doors for me, and believed in me along the way. I believe one of the greatest responsibilities of leadership is to do the same for someone else.
At the end of the day, I want my impact to be bigger than my résumé. I want to be remembered as someone who helped people recognize their potential, made organizations stronger, and left every community I was part of a little better than I found it.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lucinda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to curiosity, perseverance, and the people who have invested in me along the way. I've always been a lifelong learner, and I've learned not to wait until I feel completely ready to step outside my comfort zone or say yes to an opportunity.
I also recognize that I haven't gotten where I am alone. I've been fortunate to have mentors, colleagues, friends, and leaders who encouraged me, challenged me, and opened doors along the way. Their support has shaped my journey and reinforced my belief that success is not just about what we accomplish for ourselves, but also about how we use our experiences and influence to create opportunities for others.
For me, success has never been about having a perfectly planned path. It has come from continuing to learn, embracing new challenges, and making the most of the opportunities in front of me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
"Don't wait until you are ready"
Some of the best opportunities in my career came when I didn't feel completely prepared. I've learned that you don't have to have all the answers before taking the next step. Be willing to say yes, ask questions, learn along the way, and trust yourself enough to figure things out. Growth rarely happens when we stay comfortable, and sometimes the opportunities that stretch us the most are the ones that shape us the most.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Know your value, use your voice, and never stop learning.
HR is a people profession, but it is also a business profession. Early in your career, don't be afraid to speak up, ask questions, take on challenges, and make your perspective known. You don't have to know everything, and you certainly don't have to wait until you feel completely confident to contribute. Find mentors who will challenge you, surround yourself with people who believe in your potential, and be willing to take opportunities that stretch you. Most importantly, don't make yourself smaller to fit into a room. Your voice belongs there.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities and challenges in HR right now is the rapid integration of AI into our everyday work. AI is changing how we recruit, analyze information, communicate, and make decisions, and I believe HR professionals play an important role in ensuring we use these tools thoughtfully and responsibly. The opportunity is to leverage AI to eliminate administrative work and create more time for the human side of our profession: building relationships, developing people, and solving complex organizational challenges. The challenge is learning how to balance efficiency and innovation with human judgment, ethics, privacy, and trust. I think the future of HR belongs to professionals who can embrace technology without losing sight of the people at the center of our work.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, growth, connection, and service are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe in doing the right thing, even when it isn't the easiest thing, and leading with honesty and authenticity. I value continuous learning and growth, not just for myself, but for the people around me. Relationships are also incredibly important to me; I believe we are better when we listen, support one another, and genuinely invest in people. Finally, I believe in using whatever influence or opportunities I have to make a positive difference. For me, success is not just about what I accomplish, but about the people I help along the way.
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