This month, we find ourselves at a momentous crossroads—a time of deep reflection, immense gratitude, and vibrant anticipation. After nearly 25 years of visionary leadership and dedication, our Executive Director, Jennifer Tucker-Tatlow, has announced her retirement.

Jen’s journey with the Academy began in July 2000. Since then, she has been the heart and soul of our growth—transforming us from a small team into a powerhouse of workforce development that provides over 50,000 learning experiences annually. Under her guidance, the Academy has stayed true to its promise to “transform the heart, mind, and practice.” Beyond the metrics and the programs, Jen’s true legacy is the culture she built: one rooted in innovation, well-being, and genuine human connection. While we will miss her presence in our halls, her influence is woven into the very fabric of how we work and lead.

As we honor Jen’s legacy, we are also thrilled to look toward the future. It is our great pleasure to welcome Dr. Kim Giardina as our incoming Executive Director.

Kim is a familiar face and a longtime friend of the Academy. An alumna of San Diego State University for her Master of Social Work, and a Doctor of Social Work from USC, Kim most recently served as the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA). Her career has been defined by a passion for child and family well-being and a commitment to anti-racist, trauma-informed systems change.

Having previously worked with the Academy as a trainer and consultant, Kim understands our “why” on a fundamental level. She brings a unique perspective—having been both a partner to the Academy and a leader of the very systems we serve. Her vision for collaboration and strengthening the human services workforce makes her the ideal leader to carry us into our next era of innovation.

Transition can be a season of uncertainty, but at the Academy, it is also a season of possibility. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide exceptional learning and development experiences for the transformation of individuals, organizations, and communities.

Please join us in celebrating Jen for her remarkable 25-year career and in giving Kim a warm “welcome home” as she steps into this new role.

With gratitude and excitement,

Jen and Kim