Kenneth Oplinger
Executive Director, Domestic Violence Solutions for Santa Barbara County
Candidate Responses:
Please summarize the reasons you
are submitting this nomination.
I have over 30 years of non-profit management and board experience and would like to offer what I can to the Board of CPEDV.
How does this person’s values align with the Partnership, including centering underrepresented voices?
I strongly support efforts to ensure the voices of everyone are heard, and support specific efforts to ensure underrepresented voices have a place at the table. At DVS, we actively work to ensure safety, shelter and support for everyone regardless of race, religion, citizenship status, income, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Describe your participation in the Partnership’s regional networks, policy committees, peer learning circles and other components of our Membership community.
I have attended the annual lobbying day in Sacramento, and DVS is active in the Central Coast regional network and in partnership with a variety of sister organizations
Describe your skills, experience or interests that can benefit, strengthen or increase capacity of the Board.
I am the past chair of the Western Association of Chamber Executive and have a total of 17 years of combined experience on non-profit and charitable boards. I have also run non-profit organizations for over 30 years.
What does leadership mean to you? How do you demonstrate leadership?
Leadership is enabling others to reach their full potential. I demonstrate leadership in a variety of ways, including my management of our team at DVS, where staff are empowered to do their jobs with clear ethical standards and supportive autonomy. I believe in hiring the right people, paying them well, and letting them do their jobs while being available 24/7 for assistance and counsel.
Describe how your relationships can enhance the work of the Partnership and the Board (for example, with policy-makers, media outlets, culturally specific communities, and the broader community). Tell us how you intend to cultivate those relationships on behalf of the Partnership.
I believe my strong experience in lobbying in Sacramento and Washington DC can be a great asset to CPEDV. I also have built strong ties to media sources across the State and have strong experience in working with media to help non-profits get their message out. I will gladly use any strengths I have to help the organization, at the direction of leadership at the Board and staff levels
