The Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara announced a change in leadership Monday, appointing Len Smolburd, a nonprofit professional who has led community betterment programs in San Francisco and San Luis Obispo County, the new Chief Programming Officer effective Oct 21.
Mr. Smolburd began his career at the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco, serving initially as teen services director before being rapidly promoted and ultimately becoming director of citywide services, according to a Foundation press release.
In his current role as grants manager at the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, Mr. Smolburd directs an annual grants program that has awarded more than $8 million over the last two years. His Community Foundation efforts have also included managing an annual college readiness resource fair, and developing a scholarship and mentorship program for foster care youth pursuing college or vocational training.
“Len comes to us with an unusual mix of skills and experience. The first person in his family to graduate from college, he is passionate about serving as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of young people. His impressive energy and enterprising nature are sure to serve us very well,” said Scholarship Foundation president and CEO Victoria Juarez.
