Cari Pang Chen

Cari Pang Chen has a diverse range of work experience spanning over two decades. Cari'smost recent role is Director of Innovation, Strategy, & Planning at The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program, where they lead activities related to organizational innovation, continuity, partnership, and program development. Prior to this, they served as the Bay Area Director for the same organization, overseeing program expansion, building strategic relationships, and cultivating a cohesive regional team. Cari has also worked as a Consultant at Venture Leadership Consulting, where they partnered with nonprofits and public sector agencies to create customized solutions and strategies. Additionally, they have held positions at Stanford University, Rebuilding Together Peninsula, Thrive Alliance, Team-Up for Youth (now Coaching Corps), Wildflowers Institute, and The San Francisco Foundation, where they contributed to various projects and initiatives related to community engagement, program growth, grantmaking, and education. Cari has a strong background in leadership, strategic planning, and building effective partnerships.

Cari Pang Chen holds a Master of Arts degree in Education - Policy Analysis & Evaluation from Stanford University Graduate School of Education, which they completed from 1997 to 1998. Prior to that, they completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Urban Studies - Community Organizations from Stanford University, from 1993 to 1997. In addition to their academic qualifications, Cari Pang Chen has obtained several certifications, including training courses on bias confrontation, DEI implementation, and occupational safety.