Gina Carbajal began serving as chief programs officer at the Scholarship Foundation in December 2024. A native of Los Angeles, Gina completed her undergraduate studies at UCSB before earning a master’s degree in public administration at Cal State Northridge. Immediately prior to joining the Scholarship Foundation, she served as development director for Special Olympics in Santa Barbara County, having previously been the organization’s regional director for almost five years. Previously, Gina served as executive director of United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, director of health promotion at Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, and as regional program manager for the Community Action Commission’s Head Start services in Southern Santa Barbara County. She has served as a Board member for the Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation (MOXI) and Sarah House, among other organizations, and was recently honored by state Sen. Monique Limón and the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women.
What initially drew you to nonprofit work?
While I was a student at UCSB, I took a position as a part-time preschool teacher at the Goleta Head Start site. I discovered that I loved working with children and families, and it was gratifying to know that I was making a difference in their lives. Since then, I have worked in the nonprofit sector for 37 years.
What do you feel you bring to your current role at the Scholarship Foundation?
My years of experience working with a diverse population as well as my own experience navigating the college experience. I came to Santa Barbara in 1986 to attend City College before transferring to UCSB. I married my husband Salud while we were both students at UCSB. Being the first in my family to attend college, I had to learn to navigate the financial aid system and the college application process – all while working part time and raising my daughter.
What excites you about your Scholarship Foundation role?
I am excited to be part of this organization and help local students pursue their career and educational dreams.
Has anything surprised you in the early going?
Not really. I knew that I would have a lot to learn. I am learning something new every day. I have had many friends and acquaintances tell me that the Scholarship Foundation is a wonderful organization, and I would have to agree. I really enjoy coming to work and collaborating with my colleagues.
How has education shaped your career?
The education I received at both UCSB and Cal State Northridge provided me with essential tools – writing and critical thinking – that have helped me adapt to various challenges throughout my career.
Do you have a particular leadership/managerial philosophy?
I strive to lead by example and make myself available to my team, which is essential if we’re to meet our shared goals. I am excited to get out in the field to see firsthand the impactful work that our advisors are doing with students in our community.
How do you define success, in your job and generally?
Meeting the goals that I set for myself and being a team player with my colleagues.
What would you like people to know about you?
That I am very compassionate; I truly wear my heart on my sleeve.
What advice would you give your younger self at the start of your career?
I’ve twice lost jobs because of organizational restructuring and it stung both times. It’s tough to leave an organization and relationships with co-workers you’ve invested many years in. I have come to realize, though, that for every door that closes, another one opens!