Liz Summer Appointed CEO of United Way of San Luis Obispo County
A Career of Service and Leadership Continues in New Role
After three decades of service to the Central Coast community, Liz Summer has been appointed as the permanent CEO of United Way of San Luis Obispo County. Summer, a long-time resident and leader in the region, brings a wealth of experience in financial services and nonprofit leadership to her new role.
Since moving to the Central Coast with her family 30 years ago, Summer has built an impressive career, working for major institutions such as Merrill Lynch, Pacific Premier Bank, and SESLOC Credit Union, where she most recently served as Senior Vice President of Business Services. Beyond her career in finance, Summer co-founded and served as General Manager of a local lifestyle magazine in the early 2000s, further cementing her influence in the region.
Her commitment to community service is equally notable. Over the past 30 years, Summer has chaired numerous nonprofit boards, including the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, French Hospital Medical Center Foundation, Hospice SLO, Rotary San Luis Obispo Daybreak, and the San Luis Obispo Symphony. In 2016, her dedication was recognized when she was named San Luis Obispo’s Citizen of the Year.
After retiring from SESLOC last fall, Summer founded a consulting firm specializing in interim management for nonprofits and small businesses. It was through an interim position with United Way that she transitioned to her new permanent role as CEO. Reflecting on her appointment, Summer said, “It is an honor to serve those who are impacted by United Way’s programs and services. Becoming the CEO of this decades-old organization is my way of giving back to this wonderful place I call home.”
Summer’s deep roots in the Central Coast extend to her personal life as well. Married for nearly 40 years, she and her husband have raised three children, all of whom now live and work locally. The family also includes three grandchildren, furthering their connection to the area.
Liz Summer’s appointment signals a new chapter of leadership for United Way of San Luis Obispo County, and her dedication to community service is expected to propel the organization forward in its mission to support local residents in need.