Putting the Human in Human Resources: Grace’s Focus

Grace He, GO2 for Lung Cancer’s director of people, culture, and belonging, makes it her mission to unite people across the organization to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

We chatted with Grace, and she shared why she is a “people and culture nerd” and how she creates “moments that matter” for staff.  

What is your professional background before coming to GO2 in 2023?  

I joined GO2 as a human resources (HR) executive with more than 20 years of progressive, hands-on experience. Throughout my career, I have shaped employee culture in various industries, from private startups to the public sector.  

I started my career in training and development. After receiving my master’s in human resources management from Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations, I expanded to HR. In 2013, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business recognized me as a “Best Asian Executive” finalist.   

I am a people and culture nerd. I am not afraid to reinvent HR, putting the “human” in our people and culture initiatives with a focus on business acumen.     

What drew you to GO2 as an organization?  

During the pandemic, many of us were overwhelmed and anxious in both our personal and professional lives. After losing my father to cancer and briefly working with a couple of nonprofit organizations during the pandemic, I decided to choose my next professional challenge by focusing on the two Ps: people and purpose. I felt a strong calling to align my career with my desire to make a lasting difference.   

In addition to working with a company whose mission resonates with my values, I chose GO2 because of the people I connected with during my interview process. I knew I would join a team of people I would love to work with.   

What is your favorite part of working at GO2?  

The people!   

My journey at GO2 has been incredibly fulfilling since the first day I started working for the organization in 2023, and it continues to be meaningful and satisfying.   

My role at GO2 is unique. In my day-to-day work, I have direct access to a cross-functional team. I lead GO2’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee and the Mind Body Wellness Committee. These committees are cultural change agents and bring employees together across the organization. The project leaders on these committees never settle for simply doing a good job when they can do a great one!   

I love our monthly staff meetings, where we hear about all the incredible work our different teams do.  There are so many inspiring, intelligent employees at GO2, and they all motivate me to improve.   

How does your role promote a positive culture at the organization?  

There is a quote that resonates with me: “Company culture is not words on the ‘About Us’ page.  It’s how people feel on a Sunday night.”  When you cultivate a culture where people can thrive, your teams and company will thrive. 

The most vital aspect of my role is creating a positive employee experience for current and future team members. I prepare the company to attract, retain, and develop talents by creating a sense of connection, belonging, purpose, and fulfillment throughout our employees’ journeys with GO2.  

My process includes key touch points that enable us to create “moments that matter” for our staff, from talent acquisition, compensation philosophy, training, development, and off-boarding. Each moment marks an opportunity to build trust, meaningful experiences, and lasting impressions. 

What do you like to do in your free time?  

Baking is my meditation, traveling and food inspire me, and coaching is my passion. As a cheese lover with a sweet tooth, you can find many delicious creations from my own GH Café.  

Is there anything else you would like to share? 

We all are leaders in our lives!  As individuals, we have the power to influence and shape our lives and the lives of those around us.  

The GO2 team is fully dedicated to the lung cancer community, driven by our mission, and devoted to supporting each other. Even though we are fully remote, I always remind our team and myself to stay informed, connect, and share experiences that inspire us all!