Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) recently announced the appointment of Dr. Manny A. Aceves to chief program officer. Dr. Aceves will provide oversight, vision, and strategy in the areas of programs, grantmaking, and initiatives.
“Born and raised in Los Angeles, as a first-generation college graduate, it’s an honor to join the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation,” Dr. Aceves said in a statement. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to serve the greater Los Angeles community and execute meaningful programs to improve education, health care, homelessness, and social justice for all Angelenos.”
Aceves joins the LADF executive team along CEO Nichol Whiteman and COO Chaitali Gala Mehta.
“Dr. Aceves brings immense experience in developing strategic partnerships and educational leadership in diverse communities, which allows LADF to strengthen its reach,” Whiteman said.
“We’re fortunate to have Dr. Aceves join the executive team where he will help cultivate meaningful relationships resulting in the resources that Angelenos deserve.”
Aceves has leadership experience in education and strategic partnerships, and will work in collaboration with the executive and program teams to develop effective plans and partnerships.
He also will manage major projects and evaluate the success of LADF’s programs and initiatives, including LADF Gives, Dodgers Dreamteam, Dodgers Dreamfields, LA Reads, Science of Baseball, College and Career Accelerator, and In This Together.
Prior to joining the Dodgers Foundation, Aceves served as the Associate Dean for Strategic Engagement at the Loyola Marymount University (LMU) School of Education, where he was responsible for leading external engagement efforts, supporting relationships with existing partners, and cultivating new and mutually beneficial partnerships that supported preparation, professional development, outreach and impact.
Last year, the LADF invested more than $10 million in grants and programs, including $6 million in All-Star Week Legacy project. Their Dodgers Dreamteam program had more than 10,000 participants, and the organization broke ground on Dodgers Dreamfields Nos. 58 and 59.
Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation helped lift spirits
Late last year, the LADF and Baby2Baby hosted more than 500 students from the Los Angeles Unified School District for a holiday party at Dodger Stadium that featured an array of activities, presents, photo opportunity with Santa, fun on the field, lunch and more.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, third base coach Dino Ebel and prospect Miguel Vargas were on hand to interact with the students at various activations. Vanessa Bryant, her daughter Natalia, Lori Harvey, Kelly Rowland, Lauren Sanchez and LAUSD superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho also were among those to attend.
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