As we step into 2026, I want to acknowledge the challenges and resilience that defined 2025. Last year was difficult, and many Californians continue to feel the painful impacts of a political and economic climate that’s especially punishing for workers in low-income jobs, our immigrant neighbors, and the grantee leaders advocating with and for them. Yet, what gives me hope is witnessing how our grantees not only endured these hardships but, for many, emerged stronger, ready to lead California into its next chapter with bold, innovative solutions to address our state’s most pressing issues.  

Charting California’s next chapter is the fundamental task before us. The role of the federal government has changed drastically, and the pace of technological change promises to dramatically reshape our lives. All of us, at the community, regional, and state levels, will need to adapt and so will all of California’s systems — from workforce development to healthcare to climate resilience and beyond. It’s time we define our future, a future where we recapture the California dream, where everyone — particularly low-income workers — have the power to advance economically and thrive. I know our grantees have the leadership and commitment to define this next chapter, which lifts my spirits and fuels my optimism for the year ahead.

I’m also excited about the recent appointment of two new members to Irvine’s Board of Directors: Susan Masten and Vivian Velasco Paz, who officially begin their terms this month. Susan, a member of the Yurok Tribe of Northern California, serves as President and CEO of Women Empowering Women for Indian Nations. Vivian, based in Clovis, is co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of Paz Dermatology, a family-owned practice with offices in Fresno and Visalia. Her previous role as Assistant General Counsel with the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board underscores her lifelong commitment to protecting farm workers’ rights. 

Susan and Vivian bring deep community ties and a shared dedication to improving the lives of Californians—qualities that will benefit Irvine and our grantees. We are honored to welcome their voices and contributions to our board. Learn more about them here. 

We are also fortunate to have Maria Anguiano as our new board Chair. Maria’s diverse experience in technology, education, finance, and philanthropy—combined with her leadership on the board’s Program Committee—will be invaluable as we continue partnering with grantees to create a better California. 

As we look ahead, I am humbled by the privilege of supporting grantees whose unwavering dedication is shaping a brighter future for all Californians. I’m also hopeful about a new era of leadership on Irvine’s Board of Directors. I look forward to seeing what this next chapter brings for Irvine and for California.