Evan Schmidt
Chief Executive Officer, Valley Vision

Evan Schmidt is the CEO of Valley Vision, one of California’s most respected triple-bottom line nonprofits. Valley Vision advances community inspired solutions to advance economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental sustainability in the Sacramento region. Evan joined Valley Vision in 2014 and became CEO in 2020. Evan has expertise in implementing collaborative solutions and advancing research and data, making her ideally suited to lead Valley Vision – the region’s foremost collaborative problem-solving organization. She has a long record of impact across Valley Vision’s many initiatives – including leading Valley Vision’s research, such as conducting regional public opinion polling to shape policy and programs and exploring the future of work and the way it will change lives and communities. Evan has led projects and initiatives throughout the state and region that have delivered results making communities more sustainable, equitable, and vibrant.  

Evan has more than 15 years of experience as a community development professional. As a sole proprietor consultant as well as a Senior Associate at Smith & Lehmann Consulting, Evan led evaluation and community development projects for across the U.S. to improve organizational outcomes and advance public health and community well-being. In addition to her CEO role, Evan is an active civic leader, currently serving as Co-Chair of the California Stewardship Network and Chair of the Board of Directors for Empower Yolo. She was recognized as one of the region’s 100 Most Notable Business Leaders in 2021. Evan holds dual masters’ degrees in Community Development and Geography from UC Davis and has been a Davis resident since 2001.