Donna Lee brings hands-on entrepreneurial expertise to her classroom at LMU. As the founder of two venture-backed technology startups later acquired by Fortune 500 companies, she shares firsthand stories — from raising capital to navigating acquisitions—to illustrate key business concepts. In each course, Donna enriches learning by inviting entrepreneurs, investors, and executives to speak, and by using case studies that challenge students to apply theory to real-world scenarios. Her practical, interactive approach — backed by startup success — prepares students to think critically, build resilience, and thrive in dynamic business environments.
How do you incorporate your industry experience into the classroom?
I bring my industry experience into the classroom in three key ways. First, I lecture through storytelling—sharing real-life experiences from building companies, raising capital, and navigating acquisitions helps bring abstract concepts to life. Second, I regularly invite guest speakers from my network of entrepreneurs, investors, and executives to provide students with diverse perspectives and firsthand insights. Third, I utilize case studies to bridge theory and practice, enabling students to develop critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world business challenges.
What are you most proud of professionally and why?
I’m most proud of having founded two venture-backed technology startups that were successfully acquired by Fortune 500 companies. These experiences not only shaped my understanding of the entrepreneurial journey—from idea to exit—but also gave me the opportunity to build products and teams that created meaningful value in the marketplace.
What do you enjoy most about teaching at LMU?
What I enjoy most about teaching at LMU is seeing bright, motivated students come through the classroom each year. Their potential is unlimited, and some truly surprise you with their creativity, work ethic, and vision. It’s incredibly rewarding to play a small role in their development.
What advice do you have for graduate business students?
In your professional life, you’ll often feel like you're taking two steps forward and one step back. That’s okay—it still means you're moving forward. Growth is rarely linear, and resilience is just as important as ambition.
What’s a fun fact you’d like others to know about you?
I’m a master LEGO builder. Whether it’s architectural sets or custom creations with my kids, I find it to be a great way to combine creativity, precision, and play.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I believe education is most powerful when it’s rooted in real-world experience and paired with curiosity. I’m always looking to learn—from students, colleagues, and the ever-changing world of business.
To learn more about Donna Lee's professional and academic experience, please visit her LinkedIn profile and faculty bio.