Christopher Callahan President University of the Pacific

“Higher education can play a game-changing role in Valley Vision’s quest for a more livable future, bringing to the region innovation, entrepreneurship, job creation and social justice.”

Lori Rianda  SVP, Greater Sacramento Market Executive Bank of America

“To me livability means a community that has a strong positive identity, economic and natural resources, provides opportunity, has access to excellent healthcare and education, and has an abundance of outdoor space, thoughtful and easily accessible transportation, well planned infrastructure and vibrant culture, arts and entertainment offerings. Valley Vision plays a critical role in driving and maintaining livability standards by, without bias, presenting usable, clear data and fostering conversations and initiatives that create change. I believe that Valley Vision serves in the roles of influencer, convener, instigator and monitor in the Sacramento region and the centrum where solutions are born.”

Laurel Smith Project Coordinator

Laurel joined Valley Vision in August 2022, and serves as Project Coordinator for the Listos California Emergency Preparedness Campaign. She has over 4.5 years of experience working in nonprofit settings dedicated to improving healthy communities in the Sacramento Region. Professional Experience Laurel, a local of the Sacramento region, began her career working in nonprofits following […]

Jessica Lara Project Manager

Jessica joined Valley Vision in 2022 as a Project Manager, supporting the Listos California Emergency Preparedness campaign. Prior to joining Valley Vision, Jessica worked in early childhood education as an administrator in her hometown of Stockton, California.  Professional Experience Jessica began working in the nonprofit sector as a teenage volunteer supporting local  organizations with outreach, […]

Navreet Hundal Project Coordinator

Navreet joined Valley Vision in July 2022 as a Project Associate supporting the Innovation and Infrastructure impact area. In 2024, she was promoted to Project Coordinator. Raised in California’s Central Valley, Navreet’s firsthand experiences taught her the importance of centering community voices in regional decision making, in order to create equitable change. Professional Experience With […]

Kathy Saechou Project Coordinator

Kathy’s ethnicity is Mien-American, and her family’s history is deeply rooted in Northern Laos. She was born and raised here in Oak Park, Sacramento, and her family, background and community are the core reasons why she chose an educational and career path in planning. Community is a very important aspect in Kathy’s life and is […]

Angelina Olweny Project Coordinator

Angelina joined Valley Vision in 2021 as a Project Associate in the 21st Century Workforce Impact Area. She previously served as an AmeriCorps VISTA in the Sacramento Promise Zone, a Federal place-based initiative that seeks to address inequities in the most distressed areas in urban and rural areas across the nation. Professional Experience Angelina promoted […]

Michael Lynch Co-Founder & CEO Improve Your Tomorrow

“I envision working together to create a region in which all young people have the opportunity to a better life.”

Chelsea Carbahal Corporate Director of Public Affairs Raley's Supermarkets

“Sacramento strengthens its reputation for being the world’s breadbasket through technology and innovation. And as Sacramento grows, we continue to be a region of connected and dedicated individuals that together, propels our vibrant community!”

James Jordan Regional Administrator Federal Railroad Administration

“My vison for the Sacramento region that we lead the nation in providing affordable and sustainable housing for everyone as well as in the areas of diversity, equality and inclusion.”

John Costa Senior Manager of Government Relations & Local Public Affairs Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)

“John’s long history of engagement with government and nonprofit as well as his commitment to healthy and sustainable communities will help Valley Vision support clean and sustainable communities for our region.”

Clay Nutting Owner & Operator Canon Restaurant

“My vision is for Sacramento to be a community that supports independent businesses, local artists, and entrepreneurs through policy, intention, and resources.”