Helene Schneider

Board Member

Helene Schneider’s passion stems from connecting with leaders on complex policy issues to create positive results. She currently serves as the regional development director for California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), expanding awareness and support of CSUCI in Santa Barbara County. She also works as a regional coordinator for the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, focusing on reducing homelessness in communities throughout California and Arizona. Helene also served for over 17 years in municipal government, as mayor, city councilmember, and housing authority commissioner for the City of Santa Barbara. Additionally, in her previous role as a human resources management consultant, she developed and conducted a variety of effective training programs for local businesses focusing on strategic planning, team building, and sexual-harassment prevention. Helene currently volunteers on the nonprofit boards for Sister Cities International and the Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College and her professional designation in human resources management from UCLA Extension. Helene loves beach walks, singing it out, and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” — and believes that a good year requires a passport.