The Community Friends Auxiliary has elected Valerie Cantella as its chair for the 2026-27 term, effective in May.
Cantella brings a combination of public service and communications expertise to her role, the auxiliary said. She has served on the Goleta Union School District Board, and as public information officer for the city of Goleta. Currently, she is a professional book coach and communications strategist.
A longtime Santa Barbara resident, Cantella graduated from Westmont College and raised her family in Goleta.
Cantella’s theme for the 2026-27 year is “A shared spirit of service, with care for our community and one another.”
“I’m honored to lead the auxiliary this year with a dedicated governing body, continuing the work of an organization deeply rooted in our community and committed to serving local students, families and seniors,” Cantella said.
Joining Cantella will be newly elected auxiliary board members Karen Greathouse, vice chair philanthropic programs; Karen Bianchini, vice chair membership; Jeannine Fox, vice chair activities; Julie Ritter, recording secretary; Sande Mia, treasurer; and Sofie Langhorne, parliamentarian.
The nonprofit Community Friends of Santa Barbara is dedicated to enhancing the lives of students and seniors in the Santa Barbara community through volunteer-driven programs and philanthropic support.
Funded primarily through its long-standing thrift shop, the organization mobilizes member volunteers to give back through service, advocacy, and direct assistance to those in need.
For more, visit https://cfofsb.org.