Director of Communications
Hometown
I grew up all over Utah, but much of my childhood was spent in the Brigham City/Willard areas and Sandy.
What was your favorite thing about being a child, and do you try to hold onto that spirit as an adult?
Growing up, my mother worked for Delta Airlines to keep us connected with our 'ohana in Hawai'i. I developed a love for the "standby" life, which luckily continues still to this day as I love to travel.
What was your favorite hobby or extracurricular activity as a child, and did you pursue it further later in life?
As a child, my dad would create his own art pieces to decorate our home. I was really inspired by his artwork and enjoyed the process of crafting my own drawings and experimenting with vibrant colors. Now as an adult I do a lot of visual design and graphic work.
What was your favorite meal or dish that your family would make, and do you still enjoy it today?
My mother was raised in a restaurant. I spent my summers at that restaurant where I also waitressed as a teen, so I ate really well! My grandfather would make me my favorite dish all the time: chowmein with crispy noodles.
What was the most challenging experience you faced as a child, and how did you overcome it?
My parents worked constantly when I was young, leaving us kids home alone often. This caused lots of sibling fights. Later, my sister and I moved in with our dad, which was an adjustment. But working hard in school and getting a part time job helped me stay focused, and my siblings and I eventually grew closer.
What advice would you give to your younger self, based on what you've learned throughout your life so far?
People don't have as much power over you as you think they do...and don't buy stupid stuff.
Biography
Laneta has been at Voices since 2020. Prior to coming to Voices, she spent several years working in higher education in financial aid, academic advising, and program coordination. She also served as the Racial Ethic Disparities Coordinator with the Utah Board of Juvenile Justice and program manager for the University of Utah Internal Medicine-Pediatrics rural residency program.
Laneta’s love for her community is at the forefront of her work. She is an active board member with the Utah Pacific Islander Health Coalition (UPIHC) and a member of the Community Research Collaborative with University Neighborhood Partners where she currently chairs the West Side Community Review Board. Laneta has master’s degrees in both Public Administration from the University of Utah and Strategic Communication from Westminster College. Her favorite activity is spending the whole day at a beach. She loves shoes and has a bag for everything.
