Doug Niemela

Executive Director @H2o For Life

White Bear Lake, MN, US

H2O for Life offers a unique service-learning model that connects U.S. students with global partner schools to fund water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects. As Executive Director, I lead the strategy, growth, and mission execution for an organization that has engaged over 1 million students, funded more than 1,200 global water projects, and empowered a generation of young changemakers.Key accomplishments: Launched the Land of WELLS, a bold 10-year campaign to engage 1 million U.S. students and fund WASH projects worldwide. Secured the organization’s largest multi-year commitment to annually for five years. Built and sustained impactful partnerships with educators, corporate leaders, NGOs, and funders. Championed a service-learning approach that improves academic outcomes and student well-being while addressing the global water crisis. Led a small but mighty team through a phase of strategic growth, while prioritizing values-driven leadership, equity, and collaboration.At the heart of this work is a belief that students are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they\'re the problem-solvers of today.

University of St. Thomas

Mini-MBA for Nonprofit Organizations, Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management

University of Minnesota

Bachelor of Arts, Communication Studies and Political Science