Meet F. Noel Perry, CCA’s New Board Chair

San Francisco, May 8, 2009

F. Noel Perry took the helm as chair of CCA’s Board of Trustees on May 1, succeeding Ann Hatch who served for four years. Perry is the founder and managing director of Baccharis Capital Inc., a private venture capital firm in Menlo Park. He is a founding director and former vice-chair of Conservation International; the founder of Next 10, a nonpartisan organization working at the intersection of the economy and the environment to educate and empower Californians; chair of the California Leadership Council of the New America Foundation; and a trustee of the Woodside Community Foundation.

Perry is also the founder of 100 Families Oakland, a neighborhood social-change art project that runs programs in partnership with CCA’s Center for Art and Public Life He also developed the California Initiative at CCA, a three-year program aimed at confronting the major challenges facing Californians over the next 20 years. Through academic courses, investigative studios, and public programs, students and faculty across disciplines have been examining, researching, and developing strategies for such issues as global warming, sustainability, government, and education. Perry has served on CCA’s board since September 2005. He is also an artist.

What excites you about this job?

The CCA community is wonderful! The focus is on the students—young, creative people who arrive with ambition and promise. I want to help make their educational experience the best it can be. I am very excited to be working with President Beal. He’s visionary and pragmatic, with a real sense of public purpose. I think he’s the perfect leader for CCA and will build on the school’s many successes. The trustees are passionate and committed advocates for the college. I am inspired by the leadership of five former chairs who are still sitting at the table.

What are your top priorities as chair?

First and foremost, I will be working with the management team to make sure CCA weathers the country’s financial meltdown. We must stay focused on maintaining and enhancing the student experience while being mindful of our fiscal responsibilities.

Second, I will help in developing and implementing the new strategic plan. I have been so impressed with the process thus far, especially because it has involved so many stakeholders. They say the more inclusive the process, the more successful the plan will be.

Third, I will focus on fundraising, particularly for scholarships, but also for programs and facilities.

Fourth, I will continue to support the college’s role in the larger community. I first became involved with CCA through 100 Families Oakland. I believe that by keeping a vital connection to the community, CCA can make a difference in the world.

What would you tell a prospective donor about CCA?

CCA is one of the most exciting colleges in America, and it is on the rise. We have a solid management team and tremendous faculty members who are training the creative leaders of tomorrow—problem solvers who will make important and lasting contributions to society. CCA students are thinking beyond themselves.

How would you describe CCA 10 years from now?

I hope to see expanded state-of-the art facilities, more student housing, stronger programs, and a more diverse community. I would like to see more connections to Silicon Valley, in terms of both fundraising and tapping into its entrepreneurial spirit. CCA will continue to gain national recognition for its academic excellence.

By Chris Bliss