Brenda Solórzano will lead The California Endowment

Brenda Solórzano will be the new president/CEO of The California Endowment (TCE). She will be in charge of the endowment in early September 2024.

The appointment marks a return of Solórzano to the foundation, where she began her career in 2001. “The California Endowment is where I learned the value of centering community in philanthropic work, and it is something I have carried throughout my career,” said Solórzano in a press release. “The Endowment mission and vision are in my blood, and I am honored to partner with staff, grantees and community to lead this organization into the future.”

The Southeast LA Collaborative posted on Facebook: "Congratulations to Brenda Solórzano on becoming the first Woman and Latinx President and CEO of The California Endowment. Your leadership will undoubtedly shine through, and together, we will continue to fight for equity, justice and a California for all."

Solórzano comes to the Endowment from the Headwaters Foundation in Montana, where she was the founding CEO. 

“Brenda Solórzano exemplifies what TCE stands for and is working to build an inclusive California where everyone belongs,” Kurt Chilcott, board chair of the Endowment, said. “Solórzano is the right leader for the foundation. Brenda understands that listening with humility and collaborating with grantees to build an inclusive community is what The California Endowment’s work and mission is all about.”

“I believe that when philanthropy listens, learns, and trusts the community to take the lead of informing strategy and approach, only then are we, as philanthropists, best situated to support and understand the change necessary to create healthy and thriving communities,” said Solórzano.

“Brenda is a person who brings humility and understanding to a foundation that proudly stands with the community,” said outgoing president/CEO Dr. Robert K Ross, who led the foundation for 24 years.

Solórzano, who was born in Guatemala, began her career in advocacy circles and has continued to ensure that community voice remains at the center of informing her philanthropic work. 

“As an immigrant, I am proud to be a role model for all those who look like me and those who have never seen someone like themselves be in such a powerful and privileged position. I do not take that role lightly,” she said. 

CALÓ News has received grant funding from The California Endowment.