Director
San Diego Youth Development Office With expertise in human development, Ian is knowledgeable of those factors necessary for the positive development of children and youth. For twenty years, he has applied theory, research and best practice to a variety of initiatives and programs that have resulted in improved behavioral, educational and employment outcomes for youth. Ian has worked with both public and private partners to advance innovative change that benefit individuals, families and communities. He has successfully managed programs, collaboratives and initiatives at the Federal, State, local and neighborhood levels. As an effectual leader, Ian has had to draw upon a diversified set of skills from business and community organizing to research, training and technical assistance. As Director of the San Diego Youth Development Office, Ian facilitates public system and community level change that supports positive youth development policy, strategies and outcomes. He has done so by engaging and convening education, workforce training, employment systems and youth service providers, to create pathways that embed social supports and youth development activities, and lead to living wage jobs and careers. This work has been the catalyst for a regional focus on Opportunity Youth, and has begun to yield increased resources, improved coordination of systems and services; and improved health, education and economic outcomes. Ian has demonstrated a commitment to the belief that Youth are resilient and, when provided with the right opportunities and conditions, they thrive and succeed. |