Leadership Delegation in Sacramento

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons and Communications Director Adrienne Wilkerson pose for a group photo at the 2025 Leadership Delegation. February 2025.

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons and Communications Director Adrienne Wilkerson joined regional leaders for the 2025 Leadership Delegation to Sacramento to advocate for policies that strengthen our community.

The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce trip focused on critical issues such as housing, healthcare, sustainability, business resiliency, innovation, and public safety.

Through high-impact discussions with local and state leaders, ECS pushed for stronger policies to support our most vulnerable populations and gained insights into upcoming legislation that will shape our region’s future.

By building relationships and driving meaningful policy change, ECS continues to be a voice for those who need it most. Learn more about our work at ecscalifornia.org.

ECS Supports Head Start in D.C.

In light of recent federal funding discussions, ECS advocates for Head Start and the key support it offers to our community. January 2025.

ECS and MAAC in Washington, D.C., for National Head Start Association's Winter Leadership Institute, advocating for early learning, engaging in professional development, and meeting with lawmakers—including visits to the offices of Representatives Darrell E. Issa and Juan Vargas.

With key funding decisions underway, we’re ensuring that Congress understands the vital role Head Start plays in supporting children, families, and communities. Together, we’re raising our voices to protect and expand access to early learning programs.

CEO Swears into City Human Relations Commission

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons signs paperwork as she swears into the Human Relations Commission as a 2025 Mayoral appointee.
January 2025.

ECS’ declared purpose is to cultivate a strong, vibrant, and just San Diego region. This purpose is demonstrated through ECS’ work, but also through the individual advocacy efforts of the ECS community, including our CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons. This week, Elizabeth demonstrated this effort through her appointment to the City of San Diego’s Human Relations Commission.

The Human Relations Commission’s mission is to “conduct and promote activities that foster mutual respect and understanding, protect basic human and civil rights, and create an atmosphere that promotes amicable relations among all members of the San Diego community.” By working with various groups throughout the city, sharing educational resources, mediating discrimination disputes, and advising the Mayor and Council, the Human Relations Commission is able to achieve their mission.

Elizabeth smiles with Chida Warren-Darby, Director of Appointments/Boards and Commissions for San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. January 2025.

ECS’ values go hand-in-hand with the work of the Human Relations Commission, particularly the values of Belonging, Respect, and Empowerment. ECS’ vision to have an abundant and equitable society where all have unlimited potential requires the efforts of groups like this commission.

Appointing nonprofit leaders to civic positions invites fresh, humanitarian focused perspectives which is crucial when it comes to advocating for human relation issues involving understanding and inclusion. Chida Warren-Darby, the Director of Appointments/Boards and Commissions for San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, commented on the significance of Elizabeth’s appointment. “Nonprofit leaders like Elizabeth bring a wealth of experience and compassion that is vital to the mission of the Human Relations Commission,” she said. “Their commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse communities not only enhances the Commission’s work but also enriches our collective pursuit of equity and justice.”

Congratulations to Elizabeth on her appointment to the City of San Diego’s Human Relations Commission! We’re proud to have a leader committed to advancing equity and inclusion in our community.

CEO Participates as LEAD Advance Mentor

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons speaks to the women of the LEAD San Diego Advance program. July 2024.

SAN DIEGO — Authentic leadership shines through mentorship and guidance.

Our CEO, Elizabeth Fitzsimons, is among the respected mentors for the LEAD San Diego ADVANCE program, an initiative of the San Diego Regional Chamber.

The ADVANCE program, designed to elevate women to the highest levels in the workforce, fosters growth and resilience within our community. Through personalized coaching, mentorship, and skill-building, ADVANCE aims to increase the number of women in C-suite and leadership positions across business, government, and nonprofit sectors.

Thank you, Elizabeth, for your commitment to guiding the next generation of women leaders.

Advance supporting the growth of women leaders. July 2024.

Community leaders like Fitzsimons offer guidance to other women through the Advance program.
July 2024.