Leading With Heart – A Conversation with Aurora’s Dedicated Public Servant
In this month’s Siti Girl Spotlight, we’re honored to feature a changemaker whose leadership is rooted in deep love for her community. A longtime resident of Aurora, she’s more than just a public servant—she’s a homeowner, a parent, a neighbor, and a visionary committed to shaping a better future for the city she has called home for over 30 years.
A Deep-Rooted Calling
What inspires someone to step into public service? For this Aurora leader, the answer is simple but profound: her community. “My deep-rooted connection to Aurora and having lived here for over 30 years has motivated me to give back to a community that has shaped my life,” she shares. “Being a resident, a homeowner, and a parent inspired me to serve and improve our city for future generations.”
Her decision to run for office wasn’t sparked by a single event, but by a lifetime of living, growing, and witnessing the potential of her community. It’s this enduring connection that fuels her desire to make lasting change.
Vision Grounded in Equity
Her mission as a public servant is clear: “To create a welcoming Aurora that prioritizes equity for all citizens.” She envisions a city where families have access to quality education and healthcare, where neighborhoods are safe, and where every resident has the opportunity to build generational wealth.
This vision isn’t just an ideal—it guides every policy priority, community meeting, and campaign decision she makes. Her leadership style is deeply community-centered, driven by a belief in transparency, inclusion, and listening.
Adapting with Integrity
As political and social landscapes shift, staying true to core values can be challenging. But she meets this head-on by staying in constant dialogue with the people she serves. “I prioritize community input in my decision-making process,” she explains. Her “Lead With Steed” campaign emphasizes collaboration with both local organizations and everyday citizens, ensuring that her work reflects the evolving needs of Ward 1.
Practical Leadership in Action
Balancing the demands of public office takes more than good intentions—it requires discipline and flexibility. Her method? A well-organized to-do list, smart delegation, and the humility to seek help when needed. “I believe in collaboration and recognize that seeking help is a strength that enhances productivity,” she says.
Conflict, too, is part of the job. Her approach to resolution is rooted in transparency and active listening. “I maintain an open-door policy to foster trust,” she adds, and is working toward launching a citizen concerns line to directly address issues and find common ground.
Community at the Core
She understands that progress is a team effort. Her track record in building partnerships—especially as a co-founder of a parent organization—demonstrates the power of working together. These collaborations have uplifted student success and expanded resources for families across Aurora.
Her strategy for relationship-building is based on trust and communication. Whether working with local businesses, civic leaders, or grassroots organizations, she’s committed to advancing policy goals that reflect shared values and community needs.
Facing Challenges Head-On
Among the challenges ahead, Aurora’s financial health is top of mind. “I plan to work with city officials to understand these issues better and find solutions that benefit Ward 1, ensuring equitable resource allocations,” she says. Her approach is proactive, grounded in research, dialogue, and accountability.
When tough decisions arise, she leans on a trusted circle—community members, friends, and even her pastor—to ensure that every choice is informed by a range of perspectives.
Innovation, Sustainability, and Long-Term Goals
To her, innovation in government means more than new technology—it means new ways of listening. “I believe innovation should prioritize community inclusion,” she emphasizes. She supports citizen-driven solutions that shift the decision-making landscape toward greater equity and transparency.
Financial sustainability is another key priority. “I intend to collaborate with city leadership to create an equitable budget that protects the most vulnerable citizens,” she says. Her approach to fundraising reflects this, focusing on long-term partnerships and open communication to support lasting impact.
Measurable Change, Lasting Impact
Policy effectiveness isn’t just about good ideas—it’s about results. She is committed to evaluating her initiatives through measurable outcomes and community feedback. And her work has already led to tangible improvements in student support and family access to resources through her grassroots efforts.
Looking ahead, her long-term vision is bold and hopeful: “I want to create an Aurora where citizens thrive—where neighborhoods are safe, opportunities are abundant, and access to education and resources is equitable.”
A Leader Who Listens
What keeps her team and supporters motivated? It’s her commitment to shared goals, community-driven work, and ensuring that everyone involved feels heard and valued.
And if she could change one thing in the world? “I would like to see an Aurora where all residents are given the opportunity to thrive, not just survive… where systemic inequities no longer exist and policies promote equity, safety, and community building.”
In an era where trust in public institutions often wavers, leaders like her remind us that real change starts at the local level—with compassion, collaboration, and a fierce commitment to community.
Siti Girl Magazine Thanks you Lea Steed for your service and leadership to community you serve.
