Appointment of Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board members

City of Simi Valley
Staff Report
J
une 22, 2026
To: Cit
y Council
Fr
om: Office of the City Manager
Luis Garibay, Assistant City Manager
Subj
ect: Appointment of Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board Members
Sta
ff Recommendation
I
t is recommended that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint , the applicants nominated to the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board.

Ba
ckground
T
he Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation (Foundation) is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides endowment and annual financial support for the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. The Foundation Board is comprised of up to 21 voting members, including seven City Council -appointed public members. All members serve staggered four-year terms of office.

On
April 20, 2026, the City Council appointed Mayor Pro Tem Litster and Council Member Rhodes to serve on an interview Subcommittee to nominate applicants for appointment to the Foundation Board. The interviews took place on May 21, 2026.

Di
scussion
T
here are currently three City-Council appointed vacancies on the Foundation Board with terms beginning on July 1, 2026, and concluding on June 30, 2030 . The City initiated a recruitment on February 20, 2026, to solicit applications for the current vacancies. The deadline for applications was March 27, 2026. Recruitment efforts included a press release, cable television public service announcements, outreach by the Foundation Board members, social media, and posting on the City’s w ebsite. A total of four (4) applications were received. On May 21, 2026 , the S ubcommittee interviewed the four applicants and recommended three for appointment to the Foundation Board, as detailed below. The applications of the nominees are attached.

Nominees
Tanisha Coley
Rondah Delos Reyes
Vivian Translateur
Agenda Item No.

3A(4)
The Subcommittee recommends that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint, the applicants nominated to the Foundation Board with terms commencing on July 1, 2026, and concluding on June 30, 2030.

Fin
ancial Impact
T
here is no fiscal impact associated with this item.

C
ity Council Priority
T
his item supports the Excellent City government and Thriving Community Pillars of Excellence.

S
uggested Motion
I
move that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint , the applicants nominated to the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board, commencing July 1, 2026, and concluding June 30, 2030.

Su
mmary
On
May 21, 2026, the Subcommittee, comprised of Mayor Pro Tem Litster and Council Member Rhodes , i nterviewed the applicants and recommended that the City Council approve, and the Mayor appoint the applicants nominated to the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board. These appointments will commence on July 1, 2026 , and concluding on June 30, 2030.

P
repared by: Sandee McGee, Assistant Community Services Manager A
ttachments
A
ttachment A - Applications
2 Submission # 4702881
IP Address 2600:387:c:7218::b
Submission Recorded On 03/21/2026 4:23 p.m.

Time to Take Survey 47 minutes, 40 seconds

Page 1 ends

Thank you for your interest in serving on the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board (Foundation). The City is currently recruiting to fill three (3) City appointed vacancies. The successful applicants' terms will be from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2030.

The Foundation's purpose is to develop, support, encourage, and enhance the presentation of performing and visual arts, educational programs, and cultural activities within the City of Simi Valley through its fundraising efforts in support of the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. The Foundation provides annual financial support and is currently building an endowment fund for the Center, and hosts its signature fundraising event, the Spotlight Awards, which also recognizes contributions of local performers, volunteers, educators, and patrons.

Board Member responsibilities include assisting with fundraising efforts, pursuing grant opportunities, securing sponsorships, and identifying alternative funding sources to ensure financial sustainability. Members also help plan and support fundraising events, and build partnerships with public agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and other community groups. In addition, they serve as ambassadors for the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, advocating for the arts, promoting cultural engagement, and helping to expand the impact of programs that enhance the community's quality of life.

The deadline for this application is Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. If you have any questions regarding this application or the appointment process, please contact Sandee McGee, Community Services Assistant Manager at [email protected] .
* Full Name
Tanisha Coley
* Full Address
*
* Mobile Phone
Home Phone
**SKIPPED**
*
UEI college
*
Career Services Specialist
*
Provide career readiness support including resume building, interview prep, and job placement assistance. Build employer partnerships to connect students with opportunities. Track employment outcomes and maintain records. Lead workshops and offer one-on-one coaching to support student success and workforce readiness.

How did you hear of this opportunity with the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation? Neighbor/Friend
*
I am the proud founder of Play Cousins Foundation, creating events for Black families and promoting cultural engagement. Active in Girl Scout Zawadi Troop 3246, organizing events, fundraisers, and mentoring youth. Volunteer with SFV Kappa League and Amazing Grace Conservatory, supporting youth programs, arts access, and community connection.

Attach a resume
Tanisha_Coley_communityResume_Styled.pdf
*
Founder of Play Cousins Foundation in Simi Valley, passionate about creating safe, welcoming spaces for families and children who often feel voiceless or unseen. Active in Girl Scout Zawadi Troop 3246 , organizing events, mentoring youth, and supporting community programs. *
Founder of Play Cousins Foundation, spearheading all aspects of community fundraisers from idea to execution. Led AGC dance/choreography classes and organized R&B bingo and spades tournaments for SFV Kappa League, securing donations and partnerships. Passionate about creating fundraising events that bring joy and build community Email
Place of Employment
Job Title
Responsibilities
Please list any relevant work experience, volunteer work, community activities, or memberships. Feel free to list any significant accomplishments, awards, or impact that has resulted in these areas. You may also attach a resume.

Please list any past and current memberships in volunteer or nonprofit organizations and include any Board positions held.

Please describe your background and experience with fundraising, including events, campaigns, or securing alternative funding sources such as sponsorships or community partnerships?
6a/06-26
3 Attachment A
while supporting youth programs and arts access.
*
While I haven’t written grants, I’ve contributed to their ideation and designed programs that align with grant criteria, ensuring goals, outcomes, and reporting requirements are met.
*
While my financial knowledge comes indirectly through my husband, a financial advisor, I have strong experience in marketing and community engagement. I founded Play Cousins from an idea, building awareness and membership from zero to 60 families in under six months through events, social media, and local outreach. *
Events are my passion—I love bringing the community together while serving it. This drive is the foundation of Play Cousins, which I built from an idea to 25 families in under six months through outreach, social media, and creative programming. I create experiences that foster connection, celebrate culture, and support youth and families. *
My passion aligns with the needs of the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Foundation. I believe my skills and experience in community events can engage and welcome people who may have felt the Cultural Arts Center—or Simi Valley itself—wasn’t for them, creating inclusive experiences that celebrate culture and foster belonging. *
Are you willing and able to attend Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board meetings, which are typically held on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center?
Yes
*
Tanisha Coley
Please share your experience writing grants or supporting grant applications. What was your role, and what were the outcomes of your efforts? Please share any financial/accounting or marketing experience that could benefit the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation.

What experience do you have coordinating and implementing community events? Please include the types of events, your role, and any measurable outcomes or successes.

What about the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Foundation is compatible with your experience and why does this compatibility motivate you to serve as a Foundation member?
First and Last Name (by typing my name below, I acknowledge that this application and information contained herein is a matter of public record upon submittal):
6a/06-26
4 Tanisha Coley

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Community leader and founder with a proven ability to build inclusive, family-centered programs that foster connection, cultural pride, and engagement. Experienced in event planning, volunteer coordination, and wellness initiatives. Passionate about creating spaces where diverse communities feel seen, supported, and empowered.

OBJECTIVE
To serve on the Simi Valley Cultural Center Foundation Board, contributing my experience in community engagement, program development, and inclusive event planning to help expand culturally responsive programming and strengthen connections across diverse families in the community.

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP & VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Founder & Program Lead | Play Cousins Foundation (2025–Present) Founded and lead a community initiative creating safe, inclusive spaces for Black families in Simi Valley
Plan and execute monthly events focused on cultural engagement and community building Oversee outreach, communications, and program development Wellness Committee Chair | Amazing Grace Conservatory (2023–Present) Lead wellness initiatives supporting student and family well-being Collaborate with leadership to develop supportive programs Coordinate events and wellness resources
Girl Scouts Volunteer | Zawadi Troop 3246
Assist with troop meetings, activities, and badge coordination Support fundraising and youth mentorship
Kappa League Volunteer | SFV Kappa League
Assist with youth leadership and mentorship events
Support logistics and participant engagement
Event & Fundraising Volunteer | Amazing Grace Conservatory Support community events and fundraising initiatives
Assist with logistics and guest experience

CORE SKILLS
Community Engagement Event Planning Program Development Youth Mentorship Leadership Cultural Inclusion Fundraising Support Team Collaboration 6a/06-26
5 Submission # 4689408
IP Address 2001:560:7:68a:4dbb:ce44:6848:a1fb
Submission Recorded On 03/15/2026 9:52 a.m.

Time to Take Survey 17 minutes, 26 seconds

Page 1 ends

The deadline for this application is Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. If you have any questions regarding this application or the appointment process, please contact Sandee McGee, Community Services Assistant Manager at [email protected] .
* Full Name
Rondah Delos Reyes
* Full Address
*
* Mobile Phone
Home Phone
**SKIPPED**
*
Pleasant Holidays
*
Regional Sales Manager - Luxury, West
*
Drive growth within the luxury travel sector by managing key agency partnerships, expanding business opportunities, and supporting advisors with curated luxury travel offerings. Focus on strategic account management, territory development, consultative sales, and brand representation at industry events while leveraging market insights and internal collaboration to meet sales goals and strengthen long term partnerships.

How did you hear of this opportunity with the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation? Other: Email
*
I bring over 20 years of experience in business development, operations, and strategic partnerships across the travel and service industries. I focus on building strong relationships, expanding market reach, and supporting growth within the luxury travel sector. I hold an MBA in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Mount Saint Mary’s University and remain actively involved in professional and community engagement.

Attach a resume
**SKIPPED**
*
Board Member and Membership Chair, American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Southern California Chapter – A global trade association supporting and advocating for travel advisors. Former President, PROST Beach Cities – A professional network promoting collaboration and education within the travel advisor community. Professional Ambassador Program participant, Mount Saint Mary’s University Los Angeles, supporting student engagement and mentorship. *
Email
Place of Employment
Job Title
Responsibilities
Please list any relevant work experience, volunteer work, community activities, or memberships. Feel free to list any significant accomplishments, awards, or impact that has resulted in these areas. You may also attach a resume.

Please list any past and current memberships in volunteer or nonprofit organizations and include any Board positions held.

Please describe your background and experience with fundraising, including events, campaigns, or securing alternative funding sources such as sponsorships or community partnerships?
6a/06-26
6 I have experience supporting fundraising and partnership development through industry events, sponsorship coordination, and community engagement initiatives. In my professional roles and volunteer leadership positions, I have helped build relationships with partners, coordinate events that generate visibility and support, and collaborate with organizations to create mutually beneficial partnerships that drive participation, sponsorship opportunities, and community involvement. *
I do not have direct experience writing grants; however, my professional background includes developing strategic partnerships, securing sponsorship support, and collaborating with organizations to advance shared goals. Through my work in business development and community engagement, I have experience preparing proposals, presenting partnership opportunities, and supporting initiatives that generate funding and resources. *
I bring experience in business development, marketing, and partnership strategy, including managing budgets, supporting revenue growth, and developing campaigns that increase engagement and visibility. I hold an MBA in Organizational Leadership, which strengthened my skills in financial planning, operations, and strategic decision making.

My experience building partnerships and promoting initiatives can support fundraising, sponsorship development, and community engagement for the Foundation. *
I have extensive experience planning and coordinating professional and community events through my roles in business development and industry leadership. I have organized networking events, educational workshops, advisor trainings, and partner activations ranging from small group sessions to larger industry gatherings. My role has included securing partners, coordinating logistics, promoting attendance, and hosting events, resulting in strong engagement, new partnerships, and participation. *
The Foundation’s mission to support performing and visual arts through fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement aligns closely with my experience in business development, event coordination, and partnership building. I am passionate about bringing people and organizations together to support meaningful initiatives, and the opportunity to help strengthen arts and cultural programming in Simi Valley motivates me to serve and contribute to the Foundation’s impact. *
Are you willing and able to attend Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board meetings, which are typically held on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center?
Yes
*
Rondah Delos Reyes
Please share your experience writing grants or supporting grant applications. What was your role, and what were the outcomes of your efforts? Please share any financial/accounting or marketing experience that could benefit the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation.

What experience do you have coordinating and implementing community events? Please include the types of events, your role, and any measurable outcomes or successes.

Time to Take Survey 54 minutes, 17 seconds

Page 1 ends

The deadline for this application is Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. If you have any questions regarding this application or the appointment process, please contact Sandee McGee, Community Services Assistant Manager at [email protected] .
* Full Name
Vivian J Translateur
* Full Address
*
* Mobile Phone
Home Phone
**SKIPPED**
*
Retired from Nationwide Insurance
*
Sales Manager: marketing, underwriting, sales, service, territory mgt., business development *
Prospect, appoint, develop distributors for Allied/Nationwide in assigned territory. Analyze financial statements, profit and loss statements, write and analyze prospect business plans. Counsel/manage small business owners to success while enhancing corporate initiatives as well as support of fraternal industry associations.

How did you hear of this opportunity with the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation? Current or Past Board Member
*
Vassar College graduate 1978; on-going alumnae admissions regional chairperson with 90% acceptance rate. I've organized college night's; Starbucks meet ups and zoom calls. Soroptimist Int'l under Debbie Thomas - participated in their book event donating more than 350 books acquired by contacts countrywide.

Attach a resume
**SKIPPED**
*
Leadership Simi Valley 2009 - member of Steering Committee through 2019. Organized alumni get togethers inc annual St Patrick's Day celebration, group hikes, volunteer support at Street Fair booth. Prospected candidates for LSV with several participating in LSV. AAUW - Board Member Scholarships. Organized group to walk in SV Day Parade and poinsettia sales. Free Clinic volunteer support as needed. *
See previous comments. Also, I'm an ideas gal. I can get folks excited about an idea, run with it and make it a success. If it fails, there will be another idea.

Email
Place of Employment
Job Title
Responsibilities
Please list any relevant work experience, volunteer work, community activities, or memberships. Feel free to list any significant accomplishments, awards, or impact that has resulted in these areas. You may also attach a resume.

Please list any past and current memberships in volunteer or nonprofit organizations and include any Board positions held.

Please describe your background and experience with fundraising, including events, campaigns, or securing alternative funding sources such as sponsorships or community partnerships?
6a/06-26
8 *
I have no experience with writing grants nor supporting grant applications. I am a published writer, however. Poetry and I've written an insurance column in an "out of circulation" local paper called the Simi Valley Home Pages. Also, I wrote a territory newsletter updating changes in coverage, sales tips and more called Viv's Vibes! I am a quick study and I'd be eager to aid in and support the grant writing and application process. *
As previously stated, my corporate position required me to analyze financial statements, profit and loss statements and ensure that my business plan supported corporate initiatives and the goals of my distributors. I am not afraid to talk to people. I enjoy public speaking and informing folks on the possibility that they can be missing out on something great.
*
I believe I've answered this question by way of earlier responses referencing corporate, community and individual experiences. *
I believe my corporate, community and individual experience will be a great asset to SVCAC. I am concerned that many of our community members are not taking advantage of the many offerings our community provides them. I'd like to help change that. *
Are you willing and able to attend Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board meetings, which are typically held on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center?
Yes
*
Vivian J Translateur
Please share your experience writing grants or supporting grant applications. What was your role, and what were the outcomes of your efforts? Please share any financial/accounting or marketing experience that could benefit the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation.

What experience do you have coordinating and implementing community events? Please include the types of events, your role, and any measurable outcomes or successes.

Simi Valley City CouncilJune 22, 2026

Simi Valley City Council
June 22, 2026