About Designing Divergence

Amanda Steidlmayer

Amanda grew up in Colusa, California - a town of 5,000 people who continually invest in their families and community. The principles of community found in small towns like Colusa guided Amanda's educational and professional pursuits. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and a Master's degree in international economics and policy from the University of California, San Diego. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of the Pacific, where her research focuses on how to help individuals thrive in organizations like families, schools, and communities.

​​

In her career, Amanda specializes in the professional development of gifted individuals. For the past 12 years, she has worked at the University of California, Davis, with roles at the Graduate School of Management and the Davis Graduate Division. She currently coaches graduate students at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, which is perennially ranked as the top veterinary program in the United States.

​​

In addition to her academic and professional qualifications, Amanda is a Senior Human Resources professional. She holds certifications in strategic change management, positive psychology, strengths and career coaching, and situational leadership. She specializes in creating training on professional development, career management, communication, conflict resolution, and creating positive learning environments.

​​

She lives in Woodland, CA, with her husband and three daughters. Eric is the Men's Tennis Coach at UC Davis. Their three daughters are bright, competitive, and manage their parents with humor and grace.