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Deena Bower
Senior Manager, Learning & Organizational Development
Orange County
How do you explain to others what you do?
As a Learning & Organizational Development Senior Manager at the County of Orange, I’m grateful to work alongside an incredibly talented team that supports a wide range of initiatives that help employees across the County grow, lead, and work better together. We’re deeply involved in helping employees develop their skills, strengthen collaboration, and feel supported in the important work they do. When our people grow, our ability to serve the community grows with them.
What drew you to public service?
What drew me to public service really comes from the women in my family, my mom and my aunts, who built their careers in public service. The way they carried themselves with strength, character, and a real sense of leadership made a big impression on me. I spent much of my early career in the private sector, but stepping into public service just felt right (and my mom sending me countless County job postings as a not‑so‑subtle hint definitely played a role). It means a lot to know that the work I do supports the community I’m part of.
What’s the best piece of advice that you ever received?
I’m not sure I could narrow it down to just one, mostly because I’ve been fortunate to have so many thoughtful mentors and leaders here at the County. But the advice I come back to most often is to ‘assume good intent’ and to lead in a people‑first way. Those two ideas have gotten me through tough conversations, big projects, and the occasional moment where I need to take a breath and remind myself, we’re all human and trying our best. It sounds simple, but it’s shaped how I show up every day.
Three A’s: what’s your favorite Artist, Attraction, and Appetizer.
My favorite artist is Death Cab for Cutie. Their music has been the soundtrack to so many parts of my life. As for an attraction, living in Orange County makes it tough to pick just one. Between the parks, the beach, Disneyland, and all the places to wander and explore, I kind of love it all depending on the day. And for appetizers? Anything that involves a dip. If there’s a dip on the table, I’m automatically happy.
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