We recently announced the recipients of the 2019 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards. The awards are important to Irvine because they are an inspiring way to spotlight noteworthy solutions to California’s challenges.

That’s why I’m pleased to introduce to you someone who will play a central role in the Leadership Awards going forward. Cindy Downing joined Irvine in 2016 and was appointed to Program Officer in 2019. She has been a valuable member of our grantmaking teams and played an essential role in the 2019 Leadership Awards.

We’re thrilled that she is bringing her knowledge, passion, and dedication to improving the lives of Californians into her new role overseeing the Leadership Awards program.

For more than a decade, Irvine’s Leadership Awards have recognized and supported leaders advancing innovative and effective solutions to improve California. With a $250,000 grant for each recipient, the Leadership Awards are a substantial investment in leaders who are creating a better future for California.

I invite you to support effective leaders and invest in California’s future by nominating someone for the 2020 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards.

The nomination deadline for the Leadership Awards is April 26, 2019.