Reported last month, now it is official who Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation choose as their new Executive Director

 

Last month I reported that Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation got over 30 applicants intetested in the Executive Director position. While I knew who their top choice was, I waited until it was official. Today, a press release was issued confirming local business owner, non-profit executive and community organizer Alegria Sita as the new  Executive Director. 

Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation Press Release:

The Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation (SPZF) is honored to announce long-time local business owner, non-profit executive, and community organizer, Alegria Sita, as our Executive Director. Alegria brings a unique mix of talent and expertise to the position. This includes more than a decade of successful entrepreneurship, years of leadership in the Humboldt County non-profit community, and experience working in education and local government. Alegria along with her dedicated SPZF team and this amazing community, endeavor to continue the Foundation’s support of the ongoing transformation of our esteemed Sequoia Park Zoo. “On behalf of the City of Eureka and Sequoia Park Zoo, I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to Alegria Sita as she steps into the Executive Director role at the philanthropic Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation,” says Zoo Director, Jim Campbell-Spickler. “I have enjoyed getting to know Alegria during her years of service as a volunteer Board Member of the Foundation, and I am excited to continue the long history of successful collaboration and innovation between our organizations.”

SPZF Board President Michale Dearden said, “The entire Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Alegria to lead us into a new era at the organization. Her gifts and experience ensure continuity of leadership and vision as the new chief executive of our non-profit. Alegria’s passion for our community and our world-class Zoo radiates. We hope you will join her in her efforts to support Sequoia Park Zoo and Foundation for many years to come.”

Alegria received her Bachelor of Arts in Youth Advocacy from Cal Poly Humboldt. She spent her early professional career working throughout Humboldt County schools and within the non-profit sector, developing programs, projects, and events fostering youth empowerment. She is the founder and owner of the award-winning event planning company, Gala Events and Weddings, which continues to serve individuals, couples, and businesses with event-planning and officiant services. Alegria has supported local businesses with consulting, marketing and communications, event management, membership management, and hospitality. She has served on several local non-profit boards including the Humboldt County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Sequoia Park Zoo Foundation, and currently serves on the Fuente Nueva Charter Council. Alegria is a Humboldt County resident of 25 years and currently lives in Eureka with her daughter. “My daughter, Jamilah, and I are fortunate to make and share lifelong memories at our neighborhood zoo which holds a special place in our hearts. It is an honor to accept this opportunity to contribute to the long-term vision and legacy of Sequoia Park Zoo as Executive Director of the Foundation.”