Hearts Aligned, a nonprofit that provides assistance to critically ill children and their families in Santa Barbara County, has elected two new officers to its Board of Directors: Lucy Kohansamad, treasurer, and Jonathan Pickert, secretary.
“Having Lucy and Jonathan step into these key roles brings fresh energy and invaluable expertise to our leadership team,” said Colleen Sitolini, board chair. “They’ve both been actively engaged as board members and will be tremendous assets to our executive team.”
Kohansamad, who had serious medical issues when she was a child, watched her own family’s stress and struggles during that time, similar to many of the families served by Hearts Aligned..
Kohansamad was in and out of Boston Children’s Floating Hospital from 1963-66, and had several surgeries related to her critical condition.
Kohansamad has lived in Santa Barbara for some 40 years, where she raised her four children. She has volunteered and helped fund-raise at their schools (Montecito Union and Bishop Diego High School), and has been a long-time volunteer at Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation.
She recently retired from US Bank as a senior portfolio associate/officer analyst. She brings come 25 years of financial experience, investment management, fundraising, and networking.
Kohansamad holds a bachelor’s degree in musicology from the University of Miami; and plays viola in the Folk Orchestra of Santa Barbara.
Pickert brings some 15 years of financial experience to the board. A senior vice president and private wealth advisor at Wells Fargo Private Bank, he has been recognized by the Pacific Coast Business Times as Who’s Who in Banking and Finance.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Fort Hays State University in Kansas, where he was a full-scholarship NCAA athlete in men’s basketball; and an associate’s degree in business & managerial economics from Santa Barbara City College.
Pickert previously served as a board member of Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG. Prior to joining Hearts Aligned, he volunteered for United Boys and Girls Club of Santa Barbara County, Habitat for Humanity, Hearts Therapeutic, and Partners in Education.
Through financial assistance, family advocacy, and community connection, Hearts Aligned helps reduce barriers so families can focus on what matters most — their child’s health and healing. For more, visit www.heartsaligned.org.