After an extensive national search, the Santa Barbara Foundation (SBF) announces the appointment of Elizabeth Thasiah as its new Vice President, Programs, who will join SBF beginning October 2, 2023.
A long-time South Coast resident, Thasiah brings more than 15 years of relevant experience – most recently four years with the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, where she led key strategies of the Foster Youth. Prior to that, she served for six years as division manager with County of Ventura’s Children and Family Services and Behavioral Health, and program manager for the Commission for Children and Families First 5 Ventura.
Thasiah brings to her new role extensive engagement with strategic philanthropy, program management, evaluation, operations and community development, along with a passion for serving vulnerable individuals, children, families and communities. She elevates work that improves access to vital resources and develops opportunities for belonging and well-being.
“I am deeply excited to join the Santa Barbara Foundation team,” explained Thasiah.
“I am dedicated to the well-being of children and families, and my work until now has squarely centered the voices of youth and adults with lived experience, who provide the expertise needed to address effective systems change and equitable access to resources.”
“We are thrilled that Liz will soon be joining our team,” said Jackie Carrera, SBF President and CEO. “We will all benefit from her wealth of experience that aligns directly with our strategic priorities.”
“She also brings personal knowledge and commitment to our region, with all its complexities, and cultural, environmental and human richness,” Carrera continued.
As Vice President of Programs and part of the executive leadership team, Thasiah will develop and oversee implementation of the Foundation’s programmatic and community work, and direct the programs department of SBF, including strategic initiatives and partnerships, grantmaking, evaluation and learning, and the Collaboration for Social Impact teams.
About Santa Barbara Foundation
The Santa Barbara Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life throughout Santa Barbara County for all who live, work, play and visit here. Working in partnership with individuals, community organizations, nonprofits and government, the Foundation strives to address local communities’ most challenging needs. Recognizing that its work depends on the strength of the social sector, the Foundation is committed to the health and vitality of local nonprofits. Nearly every Santa Barbara County nonprofit organization and essential community project has been supported by the Foundation during its 95-year history. The Foundation connects philanthropists, experts in areas of challenge, and our community members facing challenges – and all who dream of stronger communities. To learn more, please visit SBFoundation.org.
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