Autumn Ziemba McKenzie Transitions to Lifebanc Leadership Role

Autumn Ziemba McKenzie has recently taken on a significant role as the new manager of community services at Lifebanc, a nonprofit organization dedicated to organ, eye, and tissue recovery. This transition marks a pivotal shift in her career after more than two decades in television journalism, focusing now on mission-driven work that resonates deeply with her personal experiences.

McKenzie, a resident of Lakewood, Ohio, previously worked for four years at Milestones Autism Resources. Her new position at Lifebanc aligns closely with her commitment to community service, particularly in the context of her family’s journey with autism and pediatric cancer. “Anything mission-driven really is a touchpoint for me,” she said, reflecting on her path from journalism to nonprofit work.

Personal Journey Inspires Professional Commitment

As a mother of two children on the autism spectrum, McKenzie has experienced the profound impact of community support. Her son’s autism diagnosis, followed by a leukemia diagnosis just three months later, led her to discover a network of resources in Northeast Ohio that inspired her to give back. “We’ve been the family that was in a really difficult spot,” she explained. “Knowing what it’s like to be exceptionally vulnerable and often in a dark place has shaped my desire to help others.”

In her new role at Lifebanc, she will oversee strategic outreach and educational initiatives focused on promoting organ donation. This involves collaboration with over 80 hospitals across a 20-county region to enhance the organization’s efforts in saving lives and supporting healing. Lifebanc aims to connect the generosity of donors with those in need, fostering a legacy of giving.

Community Engagement and Environmental Passion

McKenzie’s dedication to service extends beyond her professional commitments. She has volunteered with the Lakewood City Schools PTA and previously served on the Lakewood Animal Shelter Citizens Committee. Additionally, her passion for gardening has flourished, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when she became involved in raising butterflies. As a participant in the Monarch Watch Monarch Waystation Program, she and her family have maintained pollinator habitats, successfully raising and releasing nearly 600 monarch butterflies since 2021.

“It’s a pretty cool process,” McKenzie shared. “My daughter in particular loves helping with it and, of course, names all of the butterflies before we release them.”

McKenzie finds a poignant connection between her interest in butterflies and the mission of Lifebanc. She views the process of organ donation as a transformative gift, much like the metamorphosis of a butterfly. “When you think about it, the whole idea of organ donation is giving the greatest gift you could possibly give to someone—new life,” she stated. This metaphor resonated with her even more on her first day at Lifebanc, highlighting the profound beauty in both her personal and professional life.

As she embarks on this new chapter, Autumn Ziemba McKenzie is poised to make a meaningful impact in the community, driven by her personal experiences and unwavering commitment to service. Her journey reflects not only a career transition but also a heartfelt dedication to fostering a supportive environment for those in need.