Doug Behl-Remijan, a Bruin since 2005, made the intentional decision to step away from full-time work to focus on parenting, a choice he describes as “one of the hardest, but most rewarding decisions” he has ever made. This experience reshaped his perspective on risk, growth, and impact. He notes, “Spending time around kids has helped me reframe what it means to take a risk. What do you really have to lose in trying something new?”

As a product design leader, Doug has built digital tools that serve millions. He has helped shape mobile news at The New York Times and has expanded healthcare access through innovation at Planned Parenthood.

Doug’s approach was influenced by his time at UCLA, where he studied Design/Media Arts, participated in Dance Marathon and was an active leader in the Student Alumni Association. He distinctly remembers a course taught by David Gere on World AIDS history which deepened his understanding of social change and the responsibility that comes with building for others.

Doug’s story serves as a reminder that leadership can take many forms and that stepping back can sometimes be the most powerful step forward.