San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD) proudly announces the appointment of Megan Barber Allende as the new Executive Director of the San Mateo County Community Colleges Foundation (SMCCCF). With a distinguished career in community-based philanthropy, Megan brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing educational opportunities for all.  

“I am honored to join the San Mateo County Community Colleges Foundation and contribute to its vital mission of supporting students in reaching their educational aspirations,” said Megan. “I am excited to collaborate with the Foundation team and our community partners to create meaningful opportunities for student success.”  

Megan joins SMCCCF following an impressive tenure as the President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, where she spearheaded substantial growth and operational excellence. During her eight-year leadership, she doubled the Foundation’s assets, tripled annual grantmaking, and positioned the organization as a pivotal force for community development, securing the charitable future of the under-resourced county in perpetuity.  

In welcoming Megan, San Mateo County Community College District Chancellor Melissa Moreno remarked, “Megan’s track record of success and her dedication to philanthropy make her an exceptional choice for leader of the Foundation team. Her energetic and positive outlook, coupled with her passion for community engagement and student success, will most certainly catalyze greater community support for our students and transform our Foundation into a premier philanthropic organization in the community college system. “  

Megan’s commitment to students is evident in her accomplishments, including significant expansions of scholarship programs for historically underrepresented and first-generation college students. Her appointment as Executive Director of SMCCCF positions her to build on this success and set ambitious goals for student achievement.  

Megan holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan, a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) certification from the American College of Financial Services.  

Megan will start her new position with the Foundation on July 1, 2024, pending approval by the SMCCCD Board of Trustees at their June 26 regular meeting.