Jodi Samuels

Jodi Samuels is a highly experienced professional with a diverse work history. Jodi most recently served as the Senior Director of Strategic Support for Colleges and Scholars at the Foundation for California Community Colleges, where they directed various scholarship and grantmaking programs for California Community Colleges. In this role, they shaped and implemented the Finish Line Scholars Program, aimed at providing financial aid to students and reducing educational attainment disparities.

Prior to this, Jodi held the role of Director of Strategic Support for Colleges and Scholars at the same organization, where they also contributed to the development of best practices and strategies for scholarship programs. Before joining the Foundation for California Community Colleges, Jodi worked as a Senior Grants Specialist, focusing on building a government grants portfolio as part of the organization's resource development efforts.

Jodi has also worked as a Grants Consultant for various organizations, including the California Primary Care Association, Evergreen Country Day School, Health Outreach Partners, and Pollyanna Theatre Company. In addition, they have served as the Director of Education at the California Society of Association Executives, where they oversaw the implementation of the organization's annual education portfolio.

Earlier in their career, Jodi held positions such as Deputy Director of Development & Training at the California Primary Care Association, Teacher/Trainer at Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions, Director of Grants & Research and Grants & Projects Coordinator at Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, and Planning Commissioner at the City of Sacramento.

Jodi's diverse experience also includes roles such as Business/Technical Director at Le Theatre de la Chandelle Verte, Artistic & Technical Consultant at Francine Conley, and Foreign Language Technologist/AV Services Coordinator at L&S Learning Support Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Throughout their career, Jodi has demonstrated strong leadership skills, securing grants, managing programs, and providing strategic vision to organizations. Jodi has a proven track record of success in the areas of grants management, scholarship programs, education, and resource development.

Jodi Samuels has a strong background in French literature. Jodi obtained their Bachelor of Arts degree in French and Theatre from Wesleyan University in the years 1990 to 1993. Jodi then went on to complete a Master's degree in French from Middlebury College between 1996 and 1998. Jodi further pursued their education by obtaining a PhD in French Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating between 1997 and 2001. In addition to their specialization in French literature, Jodi has also expanded their knowledge in land use and environmental planning. Jodi earned a Certificate in Land Use & Environmental Planning from the University of California-Davis Extension from 2007 to 2010.