Los Alamitos Education Foundation Hires New Executive Director

The following is a press release from the  Los Alamitos Education Foundation and does not reflect editorial work done by Spotlight Schools. Submit a press release to Spotlight Schools by emailing hello@spotlightschools.com.

The Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Tanya Adolph as its new executive director, effective October 12, 2026.

An accomplished nonprofit and higher education leader, Dr. Adolph brings nearly two decades of experience in fundraising, community partnerships, organizational leadership and educational philanthropy. She will lead LAEF as it continues its mission to enhance educational excellence for every student in the Los Alamitos Unified School District.

LAEF serves as the district’s nonprofit partner, providing enrichment programs, grants, scholarships, and innovative educational opportunities for students across every campus.

Dr. Adolph joins LAEF from March of Dimes, where she served as senior director of donor development and interim executive leader in California. She previously held advancement leadership positions with the Long Beach City College Foundation and the University of Southern California Alumni Association.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Tanya Adolph to LAEF,” said Kendra Jones, chair of the LAEF Board of Directors. “Tanya brings an exceptional combination of nonprofit leadership, fundraising expertise, strategic vision and a deep passion for education. Her experience building strong community partnerships and sustainable philanthropic programs will help LAEF expand opportunities for students throughout Los Alamitos Unified.”

Dr. Adolph earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Organizational Leadership from the University of Southern California. Her doctoral research examined how philanthropy can help educational institutions build sustainable infrastructure, close opportunity gaps and strengthen the systems that support student success.

“Education has the power to transform lives, and I have personally experienced the impact philanthropic support can have on a student’s future,” Dr. Adolph said. “I am honored to join the Los Alamitos Education Foundation and work alongside its dedicated board, staff, volunteers, district leaders, educators, families, and community partners. I look forward to building on LAEF’s strong foundation, deepening community partnerships and expanding the resources and opportunities to benefit students for generations to come.”

Throughout her career, Dr. Adolph has developed advancement programs that unite donors, alumni, businesses and community leaders around a shared investment in education. As executive director, she will oversee LAEF’s fundraising, community engagement, donor stewardship, enrichment programming and strategic initiatives while cultivating enduring partnerships that help prepare every student in the district for college, career and beyond.

About the Los Alamitos Education Foundation

The Los Alamitos Education Foundation is the nonprofit partner of the Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF provides innovative enrichment programs, classroom grants, scholarships, mental health and wellness support, and educational opportunities that benefit every student, at every level, in every school throughout the district. With the generous support of donors, volunteers, business partners, and the community, LAEF continues to enhance educational excellence for Los Al kids.

Editor's Note: The co-founder of Spotlight Schools is a donor to LAEF.