Stanford Youth Solutions is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Laura Heintz as Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Heintz brings 22 years of progressive and significant industry experience along with a passion for serving her community to her new role. “I am excited to be a part of such an exceptional organization that serves the community where I grew up and live,” says Dr. Heintz. “I look forward to building on the deep history and quality services to broaden our reach to more young people and families.”

After an extensive search, the Board of Directors is confident Dr. Heintz will preserve the rich history of Stanford while leading the team in extending the reach of services offered to youth and their families. “We consider ourselves very fortunate to welcome Laura, a proven leader whose expertise and dedication will maintain the integrity of our mission, expand our proven programs, and ensure that Stanford Youth Solutions succeeds well into the future,” says Board President, Amy F. Lerseth. 

Dr. Heintz comes to Stanford from Victor, where she served since 2010 as the organization’s Northern Regional Director and was responsible for oversight of Residential Programs, Nonpublic Schools, and Community Based Mental Health Programs for children and families.

Before her leadership role at Victor, she had more than 15 years in increasingly important roles at EMQ/FamiliesFirst.  Dr. Heintz played a key role in the merger between EMQ and FamiliesFirst and oversaw the Wraparound, Mental Health, Residential, Nonpublic School, Crisis Nursery and Outpatient programs in the region in all realms – compliance, fiscal, personnel, quality, and clinical operations. She is revered in Yolo County as “the mother of the Yolo Crisis Nursery” opening the successful venture in 2001.

Dr. Heintz serves as a (statewide) Prevent Child Abuse Advisory Committee Inaugural Member and as a member of the Yolo County Children’s Alliance and Child Abuse Prevention Council. She is certified as an Executive Coach and a Group Home Administrator.

A native Sacramentan, Dr. Heintz holds a Doctorate in Psychology, a Masters in Holistic Studies and a double BA in Human Development and Psychology. She is a member of Sacramento Rotary Club, volunteers with Girl Scouts and coaches volleyball. She lives in Carmichael with her husband and two children.