Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority
Lea Rauscher currently serves as the Assistant General Manager of Administrative and Field Operations at the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, where operational efficiency and a collaborative culture are prioritized. Previously, Rauscher held various leadership roles at the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, including Vice President of Grants, Gifts, and Compliance, overseeing strategic direction and ensuring compliance with donor intent and regulations. Rauscher's career spans multiple organizations, with a foundation in operational management and compliance dating back to positions at Apples to Oranges, S&M Moving Systems, and Crown Books, where significant management and operational skills were developed. Rauscher holds a BS in Accounting from San Jose State University and a Certificate in Entrepreneurship from West Valley College.
Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority
For 25 years, the Santa Valley Open Space Authority – in partnership with community members, nonprofits, and other agencies – has contributed to the quality of life in our community by efficiently protecting our land and water. The Authority’s legacy includes: • Safeguarding water resources • Preserving iconic landscapes and views, which help attract a highly qualified workforce to support our local economy and protect our high quality of life • Outdoor and science education opportunities for children and other local residents • Providing urban open space and outdoor recreational areas, improving public access to open lands and protecting natural wildlife and habitat • Preserving working lands and ranches, which limit urban sprawl and traffic, protect the Valley’s history, and provide locally-grown food for a healthy food supply and to boost the local economy • We’re proud that our “common sense” approach to urban growth, in partnership with all manner of civic leaders and organizations, has led to permanent protection of 20,000 acres of open space lands