Who We Are

The Center for Nonprofit Management (CNM) is a strategic advisor, advocate, and catalyst for the social impact sector across Southern California.

For nearly 50 years, we’ve brought practical tools to mission-driven leaders to help them grow their organizations.

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Our Commitment

We Empower The Sector

Today, CNM is redefining how the sector is valued and resourced. We’re reframing nonprofits as essential infrastructure, strengthening collective voice, and advocating for more flexible, equitable funding systems.

With deep roots in the region and a sharp eye on the future,
CNM is championing bold, systemic change to ensure the sector thrives in a time of growing complexity and opportunity.

Mission & Vision

CNM envisions a thriving social impact sector that is a cornerstone of the Southern California economy.


Our Board

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Chair

Ellah Ronen

Founder & Principal

Crestline Collective

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Vice-Chair

Stephania Ramirez

Executive Director

Perenchio Foundation

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Board Member

Scott Pansky

Co-Founder

Allison+Partners

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Secretary

Zahirah Mann

President & Founder

Sustainable Vision Partners

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Board Member

Maral Karaccusian

Senior Children and Human Services Deputy

LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, District 4

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Treasurer

Sam Joo

CEO

Asian American Drug Abuse Program

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Board Member

Brett Heeger

Partner

Gundzik Gundzik Heeger LLP

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Board Member

Patty Riady

Managing Director, Audit & Assurance

Deloitte & Touche LLP

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Board Member

Rudy Espinoza

Executive Director

Inclusive Action for the City

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Board Member

Maricela Carlos

Senior Manager, eMobility Business Development & Partnerships

Southern California Edison

Our Leadership

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Efrain Escobedo

President & CEO

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Cynthia Cortez

VP of Learning & Innovation

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Eric Derghazarian

VP of Research & Social Impact

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Angelica Frias

VP of Action & Engagement

Our Staff

Nathan Witkin

Research Analyst

Leslie Schnyder

Research Fellow

Salma Shakoor

Executive Liaison

David Preciado

Learning Coordinator

Jai Phillips

Senior Director of Special Initiatives

Patricia Navarro

Senior Learning Manager

Mario Palomares

Accounting Coordinator

Stacy Lemus

Administrative Assistant

Monica Llerena

Director of Operations

Phillip Herrera

Systems & Grants Manager

Gilberto Gutierrez

Program Manager, Strategic Partnerships

Gabrielle Felder

Research Analyst

Michelle Escamilla

Engagement & Outreach Manager

Briana Erhard

Program Manager

Alicia Avalos

Senior Learning Integration Manager

Won Jung

Project Manager

Jazmin Aceituno

Accounting Associate