Glendale Community Foundation appoints new executive
This just in -- the Glendale Community Foundation, a nonprofit which distributes funds to local charity groups, has a new executive director. Sharon C. Collins takes over from Tom Miller, who unexpectedly died of a heart attack in December. Here's the release:
Glendale -- The Board of Trustees of the Glendale Community Foundation announced today that they have selected Sharon C. Collins to be the Foundation’s new Executive Director.Collins’ work background includes management positions in large private non-profit agencies, midsize health services organizations, and community hospital and medical research foundations. Her public service career began with eight years at the State of California Department of Social Service as a senior administrator.
“I am very pleased to have been selected for this prestigious position,” said Collins. “What could be more worthwhile than helping our community’s generous donors connect with important causes that provide social enhancement, cultural enlightenment and education.”Bruce Hinckley, chair of the Selection Committee consisting of seven current Board members and two past Presidents of the Glendale Community Foundation said, "after reviewing numerous resumes and interviewing many well-qualified candidates from all over the country the Selection Committee was delighted to present Sharon Collins to the Board for their consideration and unanimous approval as the Foundation's new Executive Director.”
A Glendale resident since 1999, she has been actively involved in many local causes. Her background includes membership in nonprofit organizations such as the YWCA, American Association of University Women, and Big Brothers-Big Sisters. In addition, Collins serves on the executive committee for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Los Angeles and is a member of the Planned Giving Roundtable.
"The Glendale Community Foundation celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2006 and is prepared for growth with the goal of improving the quality of life in Glendale and the Foothill area," said Doris Boyer, Board president. "Sharon's experience as a volunteer with so many good causes gives her a real understanding of the important role of the Foundation."
Board member Dr. John Davitt, recently retired President and Superintendent of the Glendale College said: "Miss Collins brings a wealth of experience in working with non-profits and we look forward to her expanding the influence of the Foundation in the years ahead. She will be able to continue the fine work of Tom Miller to make the Foundation the heart of philanthropy in the Glendale area."
Collins holds a master of business administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a bachelor of arts from California State University, Northridge.
The mission of the Glendale Community Foundation is to provide counsel to donors and financial support to diverse needs for the people of the greater Glendale community — Glendale, La Crescenta, La Cañada Flintridge, Montrose, and Verdugo City. Established in 1956, the goal of the Foundation to furnish leadership and act as a catalyst in identifying and addressing evolving community needs. For more information, please contact us at 818.241.8040 or go to www.glendalecommuntiyfoundation.org
I didn't know Tom that well -- Jason and I had lunch with him when I first started covering Glendale last summer, and Jason was beginning to pitch valleynews.com. The sense I got was that he really knew and loved this city, despite all the challenges it faces. As for the foundation and new leadership -- good luck.