OBSERVER STAFF REPORT

After 19 successful years serving at the helm of the organization he founded, St. HOPE announced recently that Kevin Johnson will transition from his role as CEO in order to devote his full energies to his mayoral campaign.”

Mark Harris, a former board member for St. HOPE Academy, will serve as interim CEO of St. HOPE until a permanent replacement is selected through a national search.

“I’m incredibly proud of what St. HOPE has accomplished and feel the organization is in a strong position for the future.” said Johnson. “I want to ensure that we have a leader who can really focus on our growth moving forward. I couldn’t be happier that Mark has stepped up to this role.”

Harris is a well-respected leader in Sacramento and brings a strong background in management, legal and operational expertise.

He has served as the president and managing principle for The Pineapple Group, a boutique finanacial services firm, since 2001 and is currently an adjunct professor for the School of Policy, Planning and Development at the University of Southern California.

As interim CEO of St. HOPE he will provide guidance and high level support to the organization. Harris will also drive national expansion efforts and guide the search for a permanent CEO.

Rick Maya, St. HOPE Sacramento’s executive director, will continue to drive the programming locally and work closely with Harris to ensure the mission and vision of the organization are fulfilled.