Samueli Foundation Leadership Transition

The Samueli Foundation announced this week that Executive Director Gerald Solomon is retiring after 12 successful years with the organization. Concurrently, Senior Program Officer Michelle Freeman has been named Interim Executive Director for the foundation. A permanent replacement will be named in the near future.   

“Our foundation is something we obviously take tremendous pride in, and Gerald has been at the forefront of some of our most powerful initiatives since his arrival,” said Henry and Susan Samueli. “We are grateful for his efforts in leading us to greater heights and wish him all the best in retirement.” 

Prior to joining the Samueli Foundation, Mr. Solomon served as President & CEO of Public Health Foundation Enterprises (PHFE) for seven years. He was also President and CEO of several nationally recognized non- and for-profit organizations, including an 18-year year career as a civil trial attorney and Judge Pro Tem. After his long and distinguished career, Mr. Solomon is moving to New Mexico upon his retirement.   

“It’s been a great honor to work for the foundation, specifically Henry and Susan,” said Mr. Solomon. “I have no doubt the organization will continue to make a profound impact on the community going forward, and wish their outstanding staff the best going forward.” 

Ms. Freeman joined the foundation in 2011. She previously served as Program Officer, overseeing grantee capacity building, program development, project management, evaluation, communications, data analysis and reporting. She has served as a Peace Corps Volunteer and a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Her extensive studies include a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services with a minor in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University, Fullerton, a Master of Arts from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago Irving B. Harris Graduate School of Public Policy Studies. 

“We are fortunate to have someone like Michelle on our staff and expect a smooth transition,” said Henry and Susan Samueli. “Our goals remain the same, to impact the community in a positive manner in order to improve the quality of life for all.”