Serena (she/her) builds connection, trust, and collaboration between philanthropists and community partners to advance health equity and social justice in the Bay Area. She leverages her background in social work and the nonprofit sector to develop philanthropic strategies that are sustainable and rooted in community.

Serena has over 15 years of experience leading program development and evaluation for nonprofits. Prior to joining Third Plateau, she oversaw the implementation of complex multi-agency and multi-year contracts and grants for the California Food is Medicine Coalition, which provides medically tailored meals to people living with chronic illnesses. This included the first two statewide contracts with the Department of Healthcare Services that totaled over $15 million. She has expertise in nutrition and food insecurity, and has also led capacity building, community development, and social service programs in affordable housing communities.

Serena holds an M.S. in Social Welfare and a B.A. in Political Science from UCLA. She stays busy most days with an active toddler and an equally active dog but you can also find her running, spending time in nature, thrifting, and enjoying an occasional Netflix binge.