At the dinner Maria recounted the accomplishments of the Foundation, observing that it had been a year of considerable growth and change, and that growth into new levels of activity often needed new leadership as well. “So, as of January 1, the Foundation will have that new leadership, someone I am thrilled to see take the leadership position and who I know will do a wonderful job,” Maria continued.
Sally Patchen
“Please join me in congratulating the incoming president of the Foundation, Sally Patchen.” Sally has done much to advance the Foundation, from taking the lead on implementing the new software and working on fundraising, to putting together the wonderful gifts for the silent auction. She was named the Volunteer Mediator of the Year by the LA County Bar Association, and is a graduate of the Dominguez Hills program in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, and Peacebuilding. The Foundation Board is thrilled that she has agreed to accept this responsibility and looks forward to her new ideas and approaches.
Shaune Gatlin
Two new board members have also joined the Foundation in the last two months. Shaune Gatlin, previously with the LA County Bar Association, joined the Board in September and will be working on updating a training program for middle and high school students. The program was made available by the LA County Bar Association, and Shaune has been the primary trainer for the Bar for many years. Her expertise and experience with the program are an invaluable asset to the Foundation.
Andrew Culberson
Andrew Culberson joined the Board in October, and is the director of the Veterans Project at Patriotic Hall, overseeing the delivery of pro bono services to veterans in LA County. He was formerly the director of the Bar Association’s Civic Mediation Project and oversaw the training programs at middle schools in Santa Monica as well as providing low and no-cost mediation services to the community. He and Shaune worked closely together on delivering and developing training programs for students, and his knowledge of the field adds expertise to the Foundation.
