Leadership at Rancho Santa Fe Foundation announces the appointment of Linda Kitchens as its new executive board chair, effective Jan. 1, 2024. A dedicated Oceanside resident and well-known community advocate, Linda brings a wealth of experience and a passion for making a positive impact in her leadership role.
A Journey of Dedication and Impact
Linda’s journey with Rancho Santa Fe Foundation began in January 2020 when she joined the Finance and Strategic Planning Committee. Introduced to the Foundation by its former President and CEO, Christy Wilson, Linda quickly immersed herself in the organization’s mission to help individuals create and enhance their impact and family legacy. Her proactive approach led to several enhancements in the Foundation’s budgeting and operational decision-making processes, streamlining grantmaking for greater effectiveness.
In January 2022, Linda assumed the Finance Committee chair role and took on the responsibility of the Foundation’s treasurer. Her background in wealth management has equipped her with valuable investment and business acumen, ensuring a strategic focus on the Foundation’s mission to connect philanthropists with nonprofits for mutual amplification of impact.
A Record of Community Empowerment
Linda’s commitment to community empowerment extends beyond her role with Rancho Santa Fe Foundation. Having lived in North County since 1985, she has been actively involved with various nonprofit organizations in San Diego, including Girl Scouts San Diego, Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club, TERI Legacy Advisory Council, and more. Her leadership as the president of Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club allowed her to travel abroad, developing a keen eye for evaluating community needs and driving remarkable change.
Linda is also a founding member of Hand to Hand, a group focused on empowering local women and girls to implement positive change in their lives. Recognized as a finalist in San Diego Magazine’s 2023 “Celebrating Women” awards, Linda’s dedication to her community has been widely acknowledged.
Setting the Course for the Future
As the newly appointed board chair, Linda is eager to lead Rancho Santa Fe Foundation to new heights of impact. “I look forward to leveraging our expertise and executing our growth plans so we can inspire others to come together for an even greater impact in our community,” she said.
The Foundation’s three collaborative grantmaking pillars—Supporting Our Heroes, Advancing Education, and Building Healthy Communities—provide donors with strategic avenues to contribute to key community needs.
In her role with the financial services provider Aspiriant, Linda co-chairs the Women Taking Charge initiative, fostering mentorship and educational opportunities to empower women. Her dedication to her family, her profession and the growth of Rancho Santa Fe Foundation illustrate her shining example of leadership.
A Bright Future Ahead
Rancho Santa Fe Foundation expresses gratitude for Linda’s dedication. “Not only is Linda a brilliant leader and mentor, she is also someone who isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves and get things done,” said Karen Sprigle, the Foundation’s interim president and CEO. “We are fortunate to work so closely with her, and I am confident that the wealth of experience and strategic vision she brings will propel us to make an even greater impact in our community.”
Linda’s vision, coupled with the Foundation’s collaborative approach to grantmaking, is set to create a lasting impact. For those looking to contribute to Rancho Santa Fe Foundation‘s mission, there are many ways to give. Direct inquiries or contributions to specific impact focus areas can be made by reaching out to the Foundation directly.
As Linda Kitchens takes the reins, Rancho Santa Fe Foundation anticipates a future marked by innovation, collaboration and sustained positive change in the community.