Laura Pitts Demonstrated Leadership Style, Effectiveness as Interim CEO
Carlsbad, California – Following a nationwide search, Carlsbad Educational Foundation’s board of directors has selected a proven leader in the educational field to serve as its new chief executive officer. Laura Pitts joined the foundation in 2019 as director of operations and educational programs and for the past six months has served as interim CEO.
“Even in her short time as interim CEO, Laura demonstrated a natural ability to foster collaborative relationships and align the foundation’s resources with the most important needs of the Carlsbad Unified School District,” said Board Chair JR Phillips.
While serving as interim CEO, Pitts helped the board of directors complete a bold new strategic plan and restructured the organization to meet the emerging needs of the school district’s 11,000 students and their families.
“As a mother of two boys who will soon enter elementary school, I understand the importance of providing the very best educational experience possible through the public school system,” said Pitts. “Carlsbad Educational Foundation’s partnership with the Carlsbad Unified School District has an opportunity to become the national model for effective private investment in public education.”
Prior to joining Carlsbad Educational Foundation, Pitts served as campus president for Brightwood College (formerly Kaplan College). She earned an M.B.A. from Purdue University Global and a B.A. in organizational studies from the University of Michigan. During her time in college, Pitts was a student-athlete, helping her team win the Division 1 Field Hockey NCAA Championship.
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About Carlsbad Educational Foundation
Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that was founded in 1983, to raise private support for public education and contribute to the enrichment of nearly 11,000 students in the Carlsbad Unified School District. Since its inception, the foundation has contributed more than $10 million in funds to Carlsbad public schools, primarily for science, technology, and music – programs that would not be possible in California’s current school funding environment. 100% of donations go directly to support the Carlsbad Unified School District because CEF’s operating expenses are covered by student enrichment programs and Kids Care, a comprehensive before and after-school K-5 childcare program.
Laura Pitts, Chief Executive Officer
Carlsbad Educational Foundation