California faces serious challenges, including unsustainable income inequality, climate disasters, a lack of affordable housing, persistent and pernicious racism, and the list goes on. Fortunately, there are also signs of progress and new opportunities on the horizon for creating a more resilient and inclusive California. 

As I contemplate the work — and opportunities — ahead, I know the Irvine Foundation is fortunate to have Tim Rios as the new Chair of our Board of Directors. Tim has a deep commitment to supporting economic advancement in California, particularly in our inland communities, that can be traced back to his roots growing up in Fresno as the son of farmworkers.  

Irvine will benefit greatly from his leadership, lived experience, and dedication to serving and supporting communities that are often overlooked — particularly the work of our Priority Communities initiative to create good jobs and inclusive economies in inland California. 

I’m delighted to share this short video of Tim, who became Chair of Irvine’s board at the start of 2023.  

I invite you to take a couple minutes to learn about Tim’s personal story – one that reflects the experience of so many families who have immigrated to this state – and his perspectives on Irvine’s work to create an economy that works for everyone.

I look forward to partnering with and learning from Tim in the coming months and years as Irvine works to achieve our goal of a California where all low-income workers have the power to advance economically.