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. She has a long record of impact across Valley Vision’s many initiatives – including leading Valley Vision’s research, such as regional polling and future of work; and delivering results in workforce, clean economy, and healthy communities.  

Evan has more than 15 years of experience as a community development professional. She has worked as an evaluator and a private consultant prior to joining Valley Vision, leading evaluation projects for organizations across the U.S. and leading community initiatives within the region to advance public health and community well-being. Evan is an active civic leader, currently serving as Co-Chair of the Board of Directors for Empower Yolo, Vice-Chair of the California Stewardship Network, and is a Senior Fellow for Nehemiah Emerging Leader Program as well as a former California Stewardship Network Leadership Fellow. 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.