WBCP Team

Personable and Professional
Meet our outstanding team members

Wendi Brown, President

Wendi is the President of WBCP, an executive search and human resources consultancy serving clients in six states and expanding. Wendi is passionate about serving our clients’ needs while also fostering a positive work culture where WBCP staff can develop their careers and feel eager to provide exemplary customer service. She has over 20 years of experience in marketing and advertising and combines this with her background in recruiting to successfully place hard-to-fill, management, and executive-level positions. She has worked in various industries — advertising and public relations, real estate, and global manufacturing – and has experience working with nonprofit and public sector organizations since 1999. Formerly, she was an internal Human Resources Consultant for the County of Orange, California, providing countywide communications, human resources, executive search and recruiter training services to the Assistant Chief Executive Office/Human Resources Director and, at that time, 25 decentralized departments, with 17,000 employees, serving a community of 300,000. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing from Colorado Technical University; has earned several certificates in Project Management, Global Business, Marketing and Human Resources; and is working toward a Master’s in Management at Southern Oregon University.

Heather Jack, Chief Operating Officer

Heather Jack is WBCP’s Chief Operating Officer and lead Project Manager. Since starting at WBCP in 2015, she has grown into an integral part of the business. Heather uses her strong organizational skills and attention to detail to support all recruitments from start to finish, coordinate timelines, and oversee the team’s productivity. Meeting clients’ deadlines and major milestones is one of Heather’s top priorities, making her our go-to person for all things calendar and project management-related. Heather also assists with projects in human resources with several municipalities in Oregon and California. Other aspects of her role include supporting employee engagement, salary and benchmark studies, and business operations. During her time at WBCP, Heather has modernized processes and scaled technology systems for the company. Prior to working with WBCP, Heather worked at Hannon Library, developing organizational, research, and interpersonal skills. Heather has a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology and a double minor in Environmental Studies and French from Southern Oregon University.

Lauren Gerson, Executive Recruiter

Lauren Gerson is a seasoned Executive Recruiter at WBCP, where she draws on over 15 years of experience in career services, customer relations, and operations. Her recruiting expertise extends across various industries, with notable success in health and human services, utilities, and finance. Lauren has helped organizations across multiple states fill hard-to-hire positions at every level, from individual contributors to executives. Lauren’s diverse professional journey began in operations and events management, where she honed her expertise in human resources, business management, and regulatory compliance. She later transitioned to career services, and prior to joining WBCP, worked with a career coaching company helping job-seekers better leverage their skills and overcome barriers to employment. Lauren holds a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Whittier College. She brings a unique perspective to her role, and is committed to making a positive impact both professionally and personally. With her unwavering dedication and client-centric focus, Lauren continues to drive success and excellence in executive recruitment at WBCP.

Levi Kuhlman, Executive Recruiter

Levi Kuhlman is an Executive Recruiter at WBCP, and a seasoned professional with a multifaceted career spanning across executive recruitment, real estate, and entrepreneurship. Drawing upon his background, Levi assists his clients in the realms of affordable and workforce housing, executive leadership, and strong commitment in branding your organization as an employer of choice. He serves as a skilled and diplomatic liaison, earning a reputation for recruitment excellence. Before joining the ranks of WBCP, Levi advocated on behalf of tenants, landlord, and clients. Levi has worked extensively with local municipalities, special districts, and not-for-profit organizations. In addition to his real estate expertise, he services as a local business owner that works closely with the community. With a diverse skill set and a commitment to excellence, Levi continues to make significant contributions to WBCP, his clients, and broadening the professional community one recruitment at a time.

Josette Reina-Luken, Executive Recruiter

Josette, an Executive Recruiter at WBCP, specializes in government finance and the water industry with nearly 30 years of experience. Her career began in IT, managing software implementations and leading training and sales teams. After earning her MBA, she transitioned to municipal agencies, holding various management positions, including Administrative Manager and Financial Manager. With expertise in budgeting, strategic planning, and organizational development, Josette has made significant contributions to the agencies she’s served. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science/Public Administration from the University of South Florida, an MBA from the University of Phoenix, and certificates in Human Resources from the California State University and Leadership from the University of Davis.

Maggie Alexandre, Executive Search and Class and Compensation Associate

Maggie Alexandre is a Human Resources professional with over 30 years of experience, and is WBCP’s key consultant performing all classification and compensation studies. Prior to working at WBCP, Maggie was a Human Resources Director in the San Francisco Financial District and led an 80 person team of human resource professionals. She began her career in HR at Robertson, Stephens & Company, a boutique investment bank, and continued in the HR Director role at other investment banks and private equity firms until 2016. Maggie has worked in all areas of HR as a generalist with a focus in employee relations, recruitment and classification and compensation. She has been working as an Executive Search Associate and Classification and Compensation Specialist for WBCP since 2018. Maggie studied Anthropology at California State University, Long Beach and received her Human Resources Management Certificate from California State University, San Francisco.

Stephanie Lawson, Recruitment Manager

Stephanie started working for WBCP in 2019. She acts as support for all facets of the recruitment process, as well as any other tasks to assist the WBCP team. Some of her core responsibilities include candidate and panel coordination, candidate review, calendar and timeline management, and interview material preparation. Prior to working for WBCP, Stephanie had several roles in hospitality where she further developed her client relations, communications, and clerical skills. Stephanie has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Administration with a focus in Hospitality from Southern Oregon University.

Karlee Beckstead, Marketing & Communications Manager

Karlee Beckstead is WBCP’s Marketing & Communications Manager. Karlee is instrumental in planning WBCP’s conferences and events, while also forming valuable connections with clients and consultants alike. Using her natural leadership abilities, Karlee serves as a mentor to junior-level staff while presenting insights to the entire WBCP team. She works diligently to promote the WBCP brand through proposals, social media posts, and email marketing campaigns. She is always looking to the future and integrating herself with our community, serving as a Board Member on the Rogue River Chamber of Commerce. Prior to joining the WBCP team, Karlee worked in customer service and social media management, where she sharpened her skills in customer relations, communications, and marketing. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Southern Oregon University in Communication Studies, with minors in Political Science and International Studies.

Naomi Orr, Operations Specialist

Naomi is WBCP’s Operations Specialist and is part of WBCP’s support team. She has project management experience in report writing coupled with data entry and client relations experience. She directly supports the executive leadership team with operations, project management, candidate coordination, and rigorous attention to detail. Prior to joining the WBCP team, she spent three years working at an environmental research laboratory where she aided clients in regulatory compliance, sample collection, and report production. Naomi holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy from Southern Oregon University.

Theresa Collins, Project Manager

Theresa is one of WBCP’s Project Managers, boasting over two decades of invaluable experience. With a solid foundation in Organizational Management and Marketing, she seamlessly combines technical expertise with a collaborative approach, creating environments conducive to project success. Theresa excels under pressure and consistently goes the extra mile to meet last-minute deadlines, making her an indispensable asset. Her work is characterized by impeccable organization and unwavering precision. Her adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges set her apart. Theresa’s exceptional capacity to oversee multiple projects, along with her seamless interdepartmental collaboration and outstanding communication skills, reflect her unwavering dedication and determination. She played a pivotal role in two major public sector projects in California: the proposed $3.5B revitalization of San Diego’s central embarcadero at the Port of San Diego, and the development of the City of Irvine’s Great Park—an impressive 1,300+ acre urban park within the former 4,700-acre El Toro Marine Air Station in central Orange County.

Leah Murphy, Project Manager

Leah serves as one of WBCP’s project managers, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Her professional journey began within a residential facility program for “at-risk” youth in the Portland area, where she discovered her passion for fostering connections within communities and families. This realization inspired Leah to embark on a teaching career. In parallel with pursuing her degree, Leah took on the challenge of working and managing a local brewery in Portland, acquiring invaluable insights into the intricacies of running a small business. Following the completion of her degree, she ventured to South Carolina, dedicating several years to teaching minority and underserved populations. Holding a Master’s degree in Teaching and a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Lewis and Clark College, she brings a strong academic foundation to her multifaceted role at WBCP, where some of her primary duties include meeting with clients, screening candidates, preparing for interviews, and overseeing candidate coordination. Her diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to education and community engagement make her an invaluable asset to the WBCP team.

Katie Hilbert, Project Manager

Katie is one of WBCP’s Project Managers, with a robust background in process improvement and project management. Holding a BA in Sociology from the University of Cincinnati and an MS in Public Service Management from DePaul University, her career took root in a Quality Improvement Pediatric Patient Safety Learning network, where she adopted the impactful “all teach all learn” philosophy. This experience laid the foundation for her approach to project management. Katie’s transition from healthcare to diverse industries showcases her adaptability and skill in leading projects that enhance team dynamics, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Equipped with a PMP certification and a Six Sigma Green Belt, and driven by a knack for building strong team connections, she stands out as a dynamic force for innovation and excellence at WBCP.

Kimika Rozier, Project Manager

Kimika brings a diverse and dynamic background to her role as Project Manager at WBCP, Inc. Her career journey began on the volleyball courts, where she excelled as a professional player before transitioning into the role of a volleyball agent in Canada. This experience laid the foundation for her expertise in recruiting, honing skills that she further developed while recruiting college athletes. In 2019, Kimika pivoted into the corporate world, leveraging her mathematics background to carve out a successful career in finance and accounting. She served as a Finance and Accounting Recruiting Manager at prominent firms. Throughout her career, Kimika has utilized her project management skills extensively, especially in her capacity as a full desk recruiter. With over ten years of recruiting experience, including four years within the corporate agency sector, Kimika brings a wealth of knowledge, a unique perspective, and proven expertise to her role at WBCP, Inc.

Ellen Schweikert, Copywriter

Ellen Schweikert is WBCP’s Copywriter, who works to craft compelling and engaging career brochures for clients. She strategically builds the WBCP reputation online through her internal marketing efforts, including blog writing, email marketing, and other deliverables. Prior to working at WBCP, Ellen was an entrepreneur, first building her business as a Virtual Assistant, then as a Freelance Copywriter and Content Writer, eventually contracting as a Copywriter for marketing agencies across North America. With experience in all facets of marketing, Ellen has a keen sense of how to maximize the potential of written copy and content across all channels. Ellen holds a BA in Art with an emphasis in Printmaking from Southern Oregon University. Before that, she attended Portland State University Honors College.

Sofia Obaidi, Sourcing & Outreach Specialist

Sofia Obaidi is one of WBCP’s Sourcing & Outreach Specialists, bringing a diverse background from executive assistance to C-level executives and a transition into recruitment. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from San Jose State University, Sofia combines a deep understanding of human behavior with expertise in full-cycle agency recruitment, candidate relationship building, and HR policy compliance. With proficiency in applicant tracking systems like Lever, Greenhouse, Bullhorn, Salesforce, and LinkedIn Recruiter, as well as HRIS knowledge in Rippling and Workday, Sofia is adept at leveraging technology for seamless talent acquisition. Her commitment to exceptional candidate experiences and a passion for career development make Sofia an invaluable asset in connecting individuals with their ideal roles.

Anna Brown, Sourcing & Outreach Specialist

Anna Brown brings over a decade of expertise in Recruiting and Talent Acquisition to the WBCP team, complemented by a distinguished 10-year military service across diverse global locations. Currently pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Business Administration at Horry Georgetown Technical College, Anna demonstrates a steadfast commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Anna’s core competencies encompass change management, administration support, staff training & leadership, benefits & compensation, performance management, stakeholder communication, sourcing/full cycle recruiting, client relations, and project management. This diverse skill set, combined with her keen eye for talent, positions Anna as an instrumental force in optimizing recruitment processes and cultivating meaningful connections with stakeholders, contributing significantly to WBCP’s success.

Ryan Brown, IT Technician II

Ryan Brown holds the position of IT Technician II at WBCP, overseeing the company’s technological infrastructure and driving innovation. He is at the forefront of implementing advanced IT solutions – including daily technical support for both in-office and remote staff, researching technology solutions, and long-range planning for a growing team. Ryan brings a wealth of experience from his service as an Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class in the Navy, where he honed his technical and analytical abilities. This, combined with his background in customer service, contributed to the diplomacy, resilience, and flexible thinking he demonstrates in his role. Ryan’s skills as a strategist and analyst are immensely beneficial to the growth and advancement of WBCP.

Kim Catoire, Executive Assistant

Kim Catoire is WBCP’s Executive Assistant, boasting over 25 years of versatile experience across multiple sectors. Kim’s career began as an Orthopedic Technician before expanding into roles such as Medical Assistant, Records Clerk, Secretary, Call Center Operator, and Staff Assistant. With a solid foundation in diverse functions, she has honed her skills in team support, meticulous coordination, and efficient planning. Kim’s proactive approach and attention to detail have made her an indispensable resource, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within her organizations. Leveraging her comprehensive knowledge, she excels in navigating complex administrative tasks and providing invaluable assistance to the executive team. Beyond her professional commitments, Kim remains actively engaged in community volunteer work, reflecting her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence in all endeavors.

Aimee Kuhlman, Operations Assistant

Aimee Kuhlman is an Operations Assistant at WBCP with a rich background in the retail industry, followed by invaluable experience as a Reception/Office Assistant in various healthcare settings, including two general dentists, an oral surgeon clinic, and a primary care/OB doctor. In her previous role spanning two decades, Aimee excelled in overseeing financial arrangements, collections, insurance billing and follow-ups, accounts receivable, and appointment scheduling. Her expertise lies in clerical and customer service skills, complemented by a keen eye for detail and a passion for organizational efficiency. With a track record of driving operational excellence, Aimee is an asset to the operations of WBCP.

Maddy Schwarz, Marketing Assistant

Maddy Schwarz serves as a Marketing Assistant at WBCP. She seamlessly combines her analytical mindset with a profound passion for marketing and events. Working closely with the Director of Marketing & Communications and the Social Media & Marketing Specialist, Maddy assumes a pivotal role in crafting and executing strategic social media and marketing initiatives. Her innate organizational skills and unwavering commitment to efficiency ensure projects run seamlessly, significantly contributing to WBCP’s overall success. Maddy’s dedication and expertise establish her as an asset to WBCP’s marketing endeavors. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Managerial Economics from UC Davis in California.

Jami Gilman, Recruitment Assistant

Jami is one of WBCP’s Recruitment Assistants, bringing her passion for organization and efficiency to keep our recruitments moving smoothly. Throughout her career, Jami supported high-level executives in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. She is skilled in prioritizing competing tasks, managing complex calendars, and handling confidential information with discretion. She is known for her dedication to her community, positive attitude, and proactive approach. She takes pride in her work and is committed to providing exceptional support to the entire WBCP team.

Angela Edwards, Recruitment Assistant

Angela brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to her role as a Recruitment Assistant, which include exceptional organizational abilities, advanced client engagement techniques, and a deep understanding of project management. Her responsibilities at WBCP encompass reviewing resumes, organization and assembly of interview materials, and maintaining effective communication with clients, ensuring the recruitment process runs smoothly. Angela’s diverse background, which spans client experience coordination, health and wellness coaching, practice management in a medical setting, and technical support for a talent management software, has equipped her with a comprehensive skill set that includes the implementation of technological solutions to streamline processes and a profound ability to build and maintain relationships. Her adaptability, technical proficiency, and experience in leading projects and teams make her an invaluable asset to the WBCP team.

Cameron Inkley, Recruitment Assistant

Cameron, one of WBCP’s Recruitment Assistants, brings her diverse skills and experiences to our team. With a background in small business ownership and events management, Cameron excels in customer service and organizational efficiency. Her expertise in training, management, and bookkeeping ensures meticulous attention to detail in all tasks. Cameron’s proficiency in high-level administrative work, including handling confidential information for executives, is complemented by her adeptness in communication and collaboration. Passionate about helping others and fostering teamwork, Cameron’s commitment to continuous learning and growth further enhances her contributions to our recruitment efforts, making her an integral part of the WBCP team.

Lane Nolan, Recruitment Assistant

Lane serves as one of WBCP’s Recruitment Assistants, bringing with him over eight years of experience in customer service, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. His experience in the hospitality sector to WBCP reflects his dedication to serving others. In his role, Lane provides invaluable support to the leadership team, meticulously reviewing resumes, coordinating with candidates, and ensuring a seamless recruitment process. His proficiency in customer service, enables him to navigate complexities with ease, fostering efficiency and excellence. Lane’s dedication to understanding both candidate and organizational needs establishes him as an asset to the WBCP team.

Katie Garrotto, Recruitment Assistant

Katie is one of WBCP’s talented Recruitment Assistants. She brings a wealth of customer service expertise garnered from years in retail and property management roles. With a knack for problem-solving and a positive attitude, she thrives in dynamic environments where adaptability is key. Katie’s passion for helping others shines through in her dedication to assisting both clients and colleagues alike. Katie approaches each day with a willingness to learn and grow, establishing her as a vital contributor to the WBCP team.

Human Resources / IT / Organizational Development

Carl Crown, Human Resources, IT & Facilitation Consultant

Carl has over 35 years of experience in Human Resources and Training. He served as Director of Human Resources for the County of Orange (retired), where he supported 25 decentralized departments in all human resource capacities. His many accomplishments include redesigning and implementing the County’s new selection rules (a comprehensive approach to marketing open positions), streamlining the selection process, recruiter assessment, and overall improvement in the efficiencies and effectiveness of recruiting throughout the County. During his time with the U.S. Coast Guard, Carl served as the Commanding Officer for Coast Guard bases in Honolulu, HI and Southern California, before ultimately retiring as the Director of Training and Development.

Throughout his career he worked on various initiatives including agency and department reorganizations, comprehensive classification and compensation reviews, job redesign efforts and decentralization of Human Resources functions. He also oversaw application development and support and business development, and was responsible for day-to-day operations of the Orange County Data Center and delivery of all Wide Area Network services across the County.

He holds a Master’s of Arts, Organizational and Human Resource Development from George Washington University; a Bachelor’s of Science, Biology, University of Florida.

Cindy Charan, MA, Senior Human Resources Consultant

Cindy Charan is a Senior HR Consultant with WBCP, Inc., bringing 18+ years of human resources management experience, the last 13 years of which have been in an executive management capacity in public sector human resources.

As an HR practitioner, Cindy is passionate about helping organizations with talent management by attracting, retaining, and developing their human capital through workforce development, transforming and modernizing human resources (nuts and bolts), and helping to advance the long-term health and performance of the organization. She has notable experience in strategic human resources planning, organizational development, change management facilitation, workforce development, performance management, recruitment/retention, and executive coaching.

Prior to joining WBCP, Cindy served as the Human Resources Director with the State Bar of California where she managed all aspects of human resources functions. Previously, Cindy served as the Human Resource Director for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission with the City and County of San Francisco, and as the Human Resources Director with the Alameda County Health Care Services Agency. In all her positions, Cindy focused on developing a best practice approach in the modernization of human resources, organizational development, compliance, policy development, talent management, recruitment/retention, strategic planning, staff development, labor and employee relations, performance management, and HRIS systems design and implementation.

She holds a Master’s Degree in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from University of Phoenix. Cindy is a member of the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM). Cindy is also a member of the California Public Employers Labor Relations Association (CalPELRA), and International Public Management Association – HR (NCCIPMA).

Organizational Leadership

Christy Wurster, City Manager Consultant

Christy Wurster is a consultant aiding in the recruitment of city managers and other organizational leaders. She has worked in local government in Oregon since 1995 and has served in various positions up to and including City Manager. She also helps cities going through leadership transitions and works as an interim city manager until they can recruit a new manager. Christy holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Portland State University and a bachelor’s degree from Western Baptist College (now Corban University). She has served as president for the Oregon City/County Management Association, the Oregon Public Purchasing Association, and the Silverton Rotary Club. She also held one of three city manager positions on the League of Oregon Cities Board of Directors between 2015 and 2018. Christy is known for her work in budget development and oversite as well as project management of infrastructure projects. She loves traveling and helping cities secure excellent leaders!

Public Safety & Fire

Chief William O. Landis, Public Safety Consultant

Chief Landis specializes in public safety searches including police, EMS, medical examiner, 911 dispatch, and fire leadership positions. With over 30 years of law enforcement and Fire experience, he has served in multiple roles including Police Officer, Firefighter, School Resource Officer, Corporal, Patrol Sergeant, Detective, Detective Sergeant, SWAT Team Member/ Commander, Negotiations Team Member, Operations Lieutenant, Deputy Chief, Police Chief, and Public Safety Director. Chief Landis was certified as a Firefighter I, Deputy Medical Examiner and holds an Executive Management Certification from DPSST (highest police certification in Oregon). He is a former member of the International Association of Police (IACP), Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), and served as an adjunct criminology professor at Rogue Community College for 10 years.

While serving as Public Safety Director, he created programs such as a “Sobering Center” which required changes in legislation but was an alternative to arrests, mobile food kitchens which served food to the homeless without impacting specific neighborhoods, a Nuisance Intervention Team which addressed nuisance issues affecting the community, and created a “School Marshal Program” which utilizes retired police officers to assist with school safety at an affordable price.

He served 25 years in the United States Navy (6 years active and 19 in the Reserves). He retired from the Navy in 2008 as a Navy Chief Submariner having served in the Navy’s nuclear submarine service.

He holds a Master’s degree in Justice Administration and Crime Management from Bellevue University, a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Service Administration from Eastern Oregon University, and an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from Rogue Community College.

William Racowschi, Fire Consultant

William Racowschi is one of WBCP’s Fire and Public Safety Consultants, bringing over 35 years of public sector experience. William served as the Fire Chief, and previously the Administrative Division Chief, for the City of Torrance before his retirement in 2015. As the Department’s Administrative Division Chief, William was responsible for its Direction, Control and Communications programs. In that capacity, he was responsible for the administrative and communication functions of the Torrance Fire Department. He oversaw the directing, testing, and hiring of personnel as well as integrating the Department’s dispatching function with the Police Department’s public safety communication center. As a Shift Battalion Chief, he directed the Department’s Fire Suppression and Technical Rescue programs, overseeing training, budget, inventory, and implementation of new systems that brought efficiency to departmental operations. During his time as Fire Captain, he served as a Station Supervisor for an area responsible for a 150,000 barrels-per-day production refinery. While serving as the Department’s Training Coordinator, he was responsible for training several fire recruits classes. William holds a bachelor’s degree in vocational studies from California State University, Long Beach.

Health & Human Services

Patrick Duterte, Health and Human Services Consultant

Patrick has over 35 years of experience in Health and Human Services in California public sector organizations. He served as the Director of Health and Social Services for Solano County, where he directed an integrated department (including public health, social services and behavioral health) and oversaw over 1,200 staff and a budget exceeding $280 MM. Previously, he worked as Director of Employment and Benefit Services in Santa Clara County, and additionally has managed child welfare programs and employment programs in San Francisco and San Mateo counties.

Highlights of Patrick’s public sector service include:

• Pioneering the first national model for insuring all children; Santa Clara County’s Children’s Health Initiative.
• Transforming the County health clinics into Federally Qualified Health Centers as well as integrating behavioral health with physical health. (One of the first nationally). These transformations not only made “self-sustaining” programs but delivered higher quality services and outcomes.
• Appointed to the National Association of Counties (NACo) – Health Steering Committee, Chair of Health Disparities Subcommittee, President’s Advisory Committee on Transitional Foster Youth, and President’s Advisory Committee on Healthy Communities.
• Winner of two prestigious awards: SPUR Award- 1991-Managerial Efficiency Award (San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Association); 2014 CSAC Circle of Service Award (California State Association of Counties).

Patrick served his country in Vietnam and received his Bachelor’s from the University of California and a Master’s from San Francisco State University.

Susan Klein Rothschild (MSW), Health & Human Services Consultant

Susan is one of WBCP’s strategic partners, helping our firm with health & human services recruitments. With a career of more than 40 years of improving the well-being of others, Susan has been a leader in health & human service programs including child welfare, human services, and mental health. Susan served as an executive in state and local government across three states. She was Manager of Child Welfare Services for the state of Colorado, providing leadership, vision, and guidelines for 64 counties serving 50,000 children statewide. She also served as the Director of the Department of Family Services with over 500 full-time staff and a budget of more than $132 million, in Clark County (Las Vegas), Nevada. She was Deputy Director at the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department leading all Community Health programs and initiatives serving a California community of approximately 450,000 residents. Susan also expanded her horizons as Managing Director of Executive Education at Stanford University, in the Graduate School of Business. Susan earned her Master’s in Social Work at San Diego State University. Finding, nurturing, and mentoring others to be servant leaders in local communities is ultimately what Susan does best!

Library

Rivkah Sass, Library Consultant

Rivkah Sass received her master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Washington and spent 40 years working in public and state library environments throughout the country as well as in the private sector as a product manager. For the past 12 years, Rivkah has been the Library Director & CEO of Sacramento Public Library, the first library to receive the Gerald M. Kline Community Impact Prize (2019). Rivkah was also Library Journal’s 2006 Librarian of the Year, the 2018 University of Washington iSchool Distinguished Alumna, and the 2020 recipient of the Public Library Association’s Charlie Robinson Award.