Cynthia Kawasaki has been named chairman of Las Aletas Auxiliary of the Assistance League of Santa Barbara for 2022-23.
Kawasaki has been a member of Las Aletas for three years, and previously served as chairman-elect and vice chairman of philanthropic programs. She is an active member of the Operation School Bell and Teen School Bell committees.
Kawasaki retired from IBM after 34 years where she held positions in software development, technical sales, human resources, and mergers and acquisitions, including working in the office for two IBM chairmen.
As chair of Las Aletas, Kawasaki will head a membership of some 70 women, be the liaison to the Assistance League of Santa Barbara, and oversee the continued development of its four philanthropies: Operation School Bell, Teen School Bell, Kids on the Block, and Operation Bookshelf, which support children and the elderly in Santa Barbara.
Las Aletas also supports the Assistance League of Santa Barbara in its Thrift Shop and 16 philanthropies.
Kawasaki heads the board of directors, which includes Tara Brown, chairman-elect and vice chair of philanthropic programs; Lori Baur, vice chair of membership; Karen Greathouse, vice chair of activities; Laura Ciontea, treasurer; Lisa Henry, secretary; and Nina Vergari, parliamentarian.
Kawasaki’s theme for the year is “Smile Sunshine” with the emphasis on having fun while reaching out to the local community by increasing membership and continuing to serve the needs of the residents of Santa Barbara County.