Barbara Andersen

Barbara Andersen joined the Cecilia Fund in 2020 after working with the organization on its Strategic Plan. After a decade in philanthropy serving as an executive with the Orfalea Foundation and Santa Barbara Foundation, Andersen really resonated with the mission of the Cecilia Fund and its direct financial assistance to working families confronting a health crisis. Andersen currently serves as the Senior Assistant to the City Administrator for the City of Santa Barbara. For over two decades, she has been committed to serving the public and supporting our most vulnerable community members.

Gabriela Dodson

Gabriela Dodson is a committed and collaborative Licensed Clinical Social worker with 25 years experience in the nonprofit sector. She possesses a keen interest in working with marginalized populations in both direct practice and community advocacy. Her top priority is to help individuals live their best possible lives and to advocate for a better society.

 La Shon Kelley

La Shon Kelley became a Cecilia Fund board member in 2016. Spending over 30 years as a retail clothing buyer, La Shon has turned her interest into non-profit organizations. She currently serves as an active board member for Devereux of Santa Barbara, The Center for Successful Aging, The Breast Cancer Resource Center, Santa Barbara Foundation Senior Programs, and the networking organization, Association for Senior Care.

Nikki Rickard

Nikki Rickard joined the Cecilia Fund in 2006 when it was still known as The St. Cecilia Society.  Over the last 17 years she has served on the Benefits Committee that reviews all requests for financial assistance.  Since moving to Santa Barbara 33 years ago, she has served on and been a board member of a number of non-profits that serve the underserved and vulnerable members of our community. She is presently serving on the boards for the Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics and the Assistance League of Santa Barbara.

Marion Schoneberger

Marion Schoneberger joined The Cecilia Fund in 2011. Throughout her career in health care she has worked for public and nonprofit organizations and agencies that serve diverse and low income populations. Schoneberger’s knowledge of and experience in Santa Barbara’s health care community has helped her support the unique and vital work of the Cecilia Fund.

Megan Foster Shapiro

Megan Foster Shapiro joined the Cecilia Fund in 2021. Upon moving to Santa Barbara in 2011, Megan quickly became involved in local philanthropy and joined The Junior League of Santa Barbara. There she held various leadership roles during her nine years of service, and has also been involved in various fundraising and development efforts for The Alzheimer’s Association and The American Heart Association. In addition, Megan has served on the board for The Association for Senior Care. Megan is passionate about supporting our most at risk community members, and her work within the field of senior healthcare and retirement living. She serves as Sales Counselor for a local non-profit life plan community, Valle Verde.

Evie Vesper

Evie Vesper joined the Cecilia Fund Board in 2015. She has a background in healthcare leadership and executive coaching. Evie travels as much as possible and loves art and activities with family and friends.

Emily Zacarias

Emily is a long time teacher and advocate for kids and adults with disabilities. She has worked for multiple school districts, including the Los Angeles, Santa Barbara Unified School Districts, Goleta Union, and the Santa Barbara County Education Office. She received her Bachelor's and Master's degree from UCSB in Psychology with an emphasis in Cognitive Development. She recently became a Board Certified Patient Advocate, as well as becoming an elected official as Trustee for the Goleta Union School Board. She lives in Santa Barbara with her husband and two young daughters and is active in many community organizations.