Suzanne Elliott, Principal at Envision Consulting, will present at the Association of Fundraising Professionals Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapters’ Symposium, “The New Normal in Effective Fundraising,” on June 12, 2018. In Suzanne’s session, “Finding Career Growth in your Current Job,” she will highlight ways development professionals can advance in their careers without job-hopping. Register to attend the symposium here.

MERCI, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit offering services to the developmentally disabled population, is proud to welcome Jillian Van Leuven as their incoming Executive Director replacing long-time leader Marta Escañuelas. Ms. Escañuelas retired in January after serving the organization for more than 24 years growing its impact and providing life changing programs for clients.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Jillian into the MERCI family,” said Ms. Escañuelas. “With Jillian’s breadth of experience working with the developmentally disabled communities, we know she will take MERCI to new heights.”

Ms. Van Leuven has vast experience working in the nonprofit sector with a proven track record of facilitating progressive organizational change, mentoring and developing staff to move up the ranks and creating long-range fiscal forecasts and financial plans. Her passion for MERCI’s mission and clients is unparalleled. She has years of experience working directly with the developmentally disabled community, providing behavior support plans, family support and one-on-one meetings, and working with a team to develop and implement goals and objectives to improve services.

“Marta is such an influential leader in the sector and she is leaving me with big shoes to fill,” said Ms. Van Leuven. “I’m eager to learn all the ins and outs of the organization to grow it and serve even more of the community.”

Ms. Van Leuven obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University and her Master’s in Nonprofit Management and Administration from California State University, Northridge.

Envision Consulting (Envision), a Pasadena-based nonprofit consulting firm, was retained to conduct the search. Within 45 days, Envision sourced and interviewed more than 60 candidates for the position and selected finalists to meet with the search committee.

“Jillian is a great asset to MERCI. She has an in depth understanding of the population MERCI serves and believes in teamwork to make the transition seamless,” Partner Matt Kamin said. “Marta has left an impressive long lasting legacy not only with MERCI, but throughout the community. We were honored to be part of this transition and entrusted with this critical role.”

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Woodcraft Rangers, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit offering comprehensive after school programs to more than 60 schools, parks and community centers, is proud to announce Julee Brooks as their incoming Chief Executive Officer succeeding interim CEO John Schauweker.

“On behalf of the Board, we are thrilled to have Julee as our next CEO,” said Jonathan Sweet, Vice President Elect and Treasurer of the Board of Directors. “She has the vision, passion and knowledge to elevate the Woodcraft Rangers organization.”

Ms. Brooks is a strategic leader with nearly 20 years of experience guiding nonprofit organizations through dynamic organizational growth. Her many accomplishments include bolstering fundraising by engaging support of strategic partners, foundations and individual supporters, elevating and expanding programs, and strengthening organizations through effective brand building. Additionally, Ms. Brooks has been instrumental in leading Boards in their strategic planning processes.

“It is such a privilege to partner with the Board and staff of Woodcraft Rangers in this next chapter,” said Ms. Brooks. “I am honored to join an organization with such a rich legacy and grateful for the opportunity to build upon nearly 100 years of extraordinary service to the youth of Los Angeles.”

Envision Consulting (Envision), a Pasadena-based nonprofit consulting firm, was retained to conduct the CEO search. After receiving more than 200 applications, recruiting more than 25 and hand-picked professionals, Envision selected four strong candidates to present to the Board.  

“Julee’s experience and outstanding resume speaks for itself,” Partner Matt Kamin Matt Kamin said. “She is an outstanding professional who will take Woodcraft Rangers to new heights, increasing their visibility further positively impacting the lives of students.”

Ms. Brooks obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Centre College in Dramatic Arts and Government, and her Master of Fine Arts degree from University of North Carolina in Theatre for Youth.

See more of Envision Consulting's nonprofit executive search successful placements.

New Horizons, a San Fernando Valley-based nonprofit organization that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities through job training and placement, education, counseling, residential services and social programs, is pleased to announce John Brauer as the organization’s incoming CEO. John will succeed long time CEO Cynthia Sewel, who retired in 2017, after more than 28 years with the organization. COO Roschell Ashley has led the organization as interim since July.

“Roschell’s contribution to the organization has been influential and the Board is appreciative of all her hard work,” said Board Chair John Bunzel. “We are excited to bring John on board with his extensive experience working with the developmentally disabled community. We believe in his ability to take New Horizons to the next level of growth and impact.”

With 25 years’ experience in the nonprofit sector at organizations, including NW Works, Inc., Community Vocational Enterprises and Union Station Homeless Services, Mr. Brauer has managed both large and small staff and created several successful social enterprises. John has committed his career to elevating the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities through life enriching programs and services. Additionally, he has worked with State Senators on numerous advocacy and funding projects, and developed strategic partnerships with more than 75 health and community partners to ensure full wraparound services for his clients.

“New Horizons’ work with individuals with developmental disabilities is unparalleled,” said Mr. Brauer. “I’m honored to lead this organization in this next phase.”

New Horizons retained Envision Consulting to conduct the CEO search. Hundreds of applicants across the United States applied for the position, were screened and put through a rigorous interview process.

“Envision is very passionate about helping communities with persons with special needs and it was an honor to place New Horizon’s incoming CEO,” said Partner Matt Kamin.

Mr. Brauer obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from John F. Kennedy University.

See more of Envision Consulting's nonprofit executive search successful placements.