Ayanna Anderson

I come to this work having had the lived experience of spending a significant part of my career in the tech/healthcare PR agency sector before making the tough decision to leave it behind as an act of self-preservation; I didn’t feel that I had the requisite support system to truly thrive. As such, I feel uniquely qualified to support our diverse staff while also fortifying our talent pipeline and industry partnerships.

I am focusing on recruitment with an emphasis on Black and LatinX hires; strong retention and career advancement opportunities for diverse staff; and evangelizing our DIBs journey—both internally and externally.

Prior to joining Highwire, I spent a decade in the field of donation and transplantation. I led strategic initiatives to drive awareness and promote advocacy for increasing the number of organ and tissue donors throughout the Bay Area. It was, by far, one of the most transformative professional experiences that I ever had. I never tired of the mission.

My love of storytelling, writing and creative ideation.

Launching the first national industry-led conversation about strategies for engaging African Americans about the need for more organ and tissue donors in the BLM era.

During my first month as a newly-minted AE, I mispronounced Reuters as Route-ers, and my peer trainer gave me SUPER side eye before correcting me. Lesson learned! Thankfully, I went on to secure some pretty sweet Reuters media coverage years later.

I grew up in the most idyllic neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Our family has been there for more than three generations, and I loved everything about it: the architecture, the warm/friendly Midwest vibes, the eclectic shops and of course, the food! Good times.

I’m a reformed party animal, however these days it involves lots of Bay Area adventures with my hubby/two sons as well as girlfriends. Though we have been slowed down a bit by COVID, we have managed to enjoy: lots of hikes, road trips, backyard bbqs, garden/landscaping projects, impromptu 90’s dance parties, baking and lots of Zooms and video calls with our extended family members. In 2021, I added crocheting into the mix, and this year, 2024, I’ve taken up pickleball lessons. Excited to see what next year might bring!