Lisa Brooks will complete a distinguished and productive 14-year run as executive director of the Glendale College Foundation on Monday, July 31.
Brooks’ retirement ends a decades-long international career that included stints as a researcher in Sydney, Australia; social worker in London, UK; and in Los Angeles where she served as program director for a women’s organization, and fundraising director for a social services agency.
Brooks joined the Glendale College Foundation in 2009 to lead an already established charitable foundation that provides key support to Glendale Community College.
Over the next decade and a half, she guided the foundation into an even more robust organization. Brooks credits her strong working relationship with the foundation board and staff for many of their accomplishments during her tenure. “I have been fortunate to collaborate with many wonderful people around the world and in each situation, we were focused on improving people’s lives,” said Brooks. “I am so grateful that the Glendale community and our Glendale Community College alumni have been willing to invest in that margin of excellence for our students. It feels good leaving the foundation in a strong position where it will continue to build a deep connection to the community with a commitment to always put student needs first.”
“Lisa has the tenacity of a bulldog,” said Rick Dinger, Glendale College Foundation president. “I’ve worked with her for nearly 10 years and have witnessed her impressive skill set. She has the personality to make everyone feel good, yet Lisa’s relentless drive keeps us focused on achieving the goals we’ve set. We will miss her leadership.”
Following her retirement, Brooks says she will continue living in Glendale where she currently serves as Glendale Kiwanis president; she plans to remain active in the community and maintain her other philanthropic efforts. In addition to enjoying the slower pace of retirement, Brooks plans to stay busy with her creative pursuits, which include playing the piano, writing, drawing and painting. She also plans to expand her world travels and visit her family more frequently in Australia and Israel.
“Lisa’s vast experience, internationally and locally, has been an asset to the college; the numbers and relationships built speak for themselves,” said Ryan Cornner, GCC superintendent/president. “Her lasting impact is immeasurable thanks to the programs and systems that she crafted which will benefit the college for many years ahead.”
First published in the July 29 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.
