The Sonoma Valley Education Foundation will have a new executive director on January 1, as Angela Ryan, currently the nonprofit’s director of programs & grants, takes over for Mary Favaro.
Both Favaro and Ryan joined the organization in March 2019 and have worked closely together to support the development and funding of student programs across the Sonoma Valley Unified School District.
The Sonoma Valley Education Foundation funds educational programs for Sonoma Valley students to help improve student performance and long-term outcomes, and increase access to educational opportunities.
A Sonoma native, Ryan returned to the Valley in 2013 after earning a doctorate in history from Ohio State University and living and working in New York City as a college professor. After volunteering locally, she eventually embarked on a career in the nonprofit world, first at Teen Services Sonoma, followed by a consulting agency, and as executive director of the Petaluma Museum.
“Having been born and raised in Sonoma, I have deep roots and commitment to this community,” Ryan said. “I am a product of the local public schools and my children attend them now. I believe that of all of the things we can do to make our community a better place to live, investing in education is the most important.”
Favaro will be working through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition, and will be assisting with the search for a new Director of Development to fill Ryan’s current position.
“I’m proud of the impact we have had on the students and teachers within the district, particularly during the challenges of a pandemic and fires,” Favaro said. “It has been an incredible honor and privilege to work with and learn from the SVEF Board and staff, and the many dedicated administrators and teachers throughout SVUSD.”
Board Chair Rich Henley noted that under Favaro’s leadership, SVEF has funded over $1 million in student programs annually, including the district’s preschool program and summer literacy academy, as well as funding urgent needs supporting the shift to at-home learning this year.
Looking forward, Henley said, “Angela Ryan brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge about both the local education scene and the nonprofit landscape. As she assumes the executive director position in January, we are confident that our impact in the education community will continue to strengthen and grow.”
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