One Arroyo Foundation Welcomes Cynthia Kurtz as Interim Executive Director and Three New Board Members
One Arroyo Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Cynthia Kurtz as Interim Executive Director and the addition of three distinguished individuals to its board of directors, further fortifying the organization’s steadfast commitment to preserving and enhancing the Arroyo Seco.
Cynthia Kurtz brings a wealth of experience spanning both the public and non-profit sectors. Her distinguished career includes serving as City Manager for the City of Pasadena, Interim City Manager for the cities of Covina and Santa Ana, and President of the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership. Currently, Cynthia represents the City of Pasadena on the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and contributes her expertise to the Advisory Board for Leadership Pasadena, as well as the City of Pasadena’s 710 Corridor Planning Committee. With her extensive background in public administration, Cynthia brings invaluable leadership skills, positioning the organization for continued success. “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to work with One Arroyo’s dedicated Board and staff to preserve and restore the Arroyo” said Cynthia Kurtz.
Joining Cynthia on the board are three esteemed individuals:
Dexter Bailey: Dexter Bailey holds the esteemed position of Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). A distinguished member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) 50 Executive Committee, Dexter’s impressive career spans over 25 years in fundraising and alumni relations. His profound understanding of institutional leadership and governance will greatly benefit the foundation. “It is truly an honor to join the One Arroyo Foundation Board. It will be my privilege to work with the distinguished leaders of the foundation and community members committed to the preservation and enhancement of this historic regional treasure,” said Dexter Bailey.
Lisa Evans: Currently serving as President of the Diggers Garden Club, Lisa Evans exemplifies a profound commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship. As a resident and neighbor, Lisa has become a devoted advocate for the Arroyo and its preservation. Her leadership roles within various community initiatives, coupled with her unwavering passion for environmental causes, render her an invaluable addition. “I am thrilled to embark on this journey with the One Arroyo Foundation Board, committed to realizing our shared vision and making a lasting impact on our community’s beloved natural space while improving, managing, and preserving the Arroyo Seco’s history,” expressed Lisa Evans.
Gale Kohl: As the proprietor of Gale’s Italian Restaurant, Gale Kohl brings extensive experience in community engagement and philanthropy to the board. Her enduring support for local non-profit organizations and governance roles, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation and as Chair of Building & Technology for the Armory Center for the Arts, align seamlessly with the foundation’s mission to preserve our region's cultural and recreational heritage.
Moreover, the foundation is delighted to announce that Rick Gould, formerly serving as Executive Director, will now serve as Managing Director, ensuring a seamless transition and leveraging his expertise to bolster the organization’s operations.
“We are honored to welcome Cynthia Kurtz as our Interim Executive Director and embrace the invaluable contributions of Dexter Bailey, Lisa Evans, and Gale Kohl to our board of directors” said Dan Rothenberg, President and CEO of the One Arroyo Foundation. "Their collective expertise and unwavering commitment to environmental conservation will propel our efforts in safeguarding the Arroyo Seco for future generations.”