About Us

Board President

Marta Van Loan brings a distinguished career in science and academia to her leadership of the Martinez Community Foundation. A retired researcher with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and former Professor at the University of California, Davis, her work exploring the effects of nutrition and exercise on human physiology earned national and international recognition. She has also served on the editorial boards of three major scientific journals. Closer to home, Marta volunteers with the Friends of the Martinez Library and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), reflecting her deep commitment to the community she serves.

Secretary

A third-generation Martinez resident and daughter of a city councilmember, Suzanne Chapot's connection to this community runs deep. After earning a B.A. in Political Science from USC, she served as a VISTA community organizer in Georgia and Miami before returning to California, where she earned her teaching credential from UC Berkeley and later her J.D. from Golden Gate University. Suzanne went on to retire as Chief Assistant Public Defender of Contra Costa County. In retirement, she tutors elementary school children, supports a range of civic and social justice organizations, and looks forward to her first nonprofit leadership role as an active champion for Martinez.

Treasurer

Lucinda Cartwright brings 40 years of professional experience in the insurance industry to her role as MCF Treasurer, including 25 years as a liability underwriter for national accounts where statistical modeling, trend analysis, and financial projections were daily practice. Those same skills now serve her HOA board and the Martinez Community Foundation alike. An active member of Martinez CERT and a dedicated Tai Chi practitioner, Lucinda is eager to put her expertise to work for the community.

Board Member

Tania Brugger has called Martinez home since the age of five, and her commitment to community leadership runs just as deep. A former board president of both the Concord Chamber of Commerce and the Monument Crisis Center, she has also served as a Rotarian and a Martinez Unified School District board member. With over two decades of experience in the banking industry, Tania is excited to bring her skills back to the community she loves.

Board Member

Kyle Hurley brings a strong professional background in audit, compliance, and risk management to the MCF Board, with senior director experience at credit unions and banks across California. She takes pride in bringing integrity and thoroughness to everything she does. Outside of work, Kyle is an avid mountain climber, hiker, and coed soccer player — someone who believes that staying energized and connected in the community goes hand in hand with making a difference in it.

Board Member

Charley Daly is a community engagement leader with a gift for connecting people and amplifying impact. Based in Martinez, he currently serves as Alumni Manager at the Diablo Valley College Foundation, where he grew alumni membership by 700% through strategic outreach and events. He founded the DVC Alumni Speakers Bureau, hosts the DVC Alumni Podcast — with over 3,000 downloads and 100+ episodes — and organizes mentorship programs that open doors for students and alumni alike. Charley's background spans sales engineering, marketing, and nonprofit leadership, including a successful revitalization of the Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce. He brings that same energy and strategic vision to the MCF Board.

Board Member

Laura Philpot is a well-connected and active member of the Martinez community, with involvement ranging from the Martinez Yacht Club to the Chamber of Commerce. Her broad network of community relationships makes her a valued bridge-builder for MCF, helping connect the Foundation with the people and organizations that make Martinez thrive.

Board Member

Linda Meza brings extensive experience in community engagement, nonprofit partnerships, and local economic development to the MCF Board. In her professional role, she works closely with community organizations, civic leaders, and small businesses across Contra Costa County to strengthen neighborhoods and expand access to resources. Linda is deeply committed to Martinez and believes in collaborative, community-driven solutions that create lasting local impact.

Staff

Rebecca Clancy is an administrative professional with a background in legal, financial, and organizational support. A California State University, Hayward graduate with a B.S. in Criminal Justice, Rebecca brings structure and care to the day-to-day operations that keep MCF running smoothly. Originally from Walnut Creek and now residing in Oakley, she remains actively involved in her community through youth programs and local organizations.

Web Designer

Mario Tejada serves as Webmaster for the Martinez Community Foundation, bringing his expertise in web design and digital communications to help MCF connect with and serve the greater Martinez community. Working behind the scenes, he ensures the Foundation's story and mission reach the people who need it most. Mario also serves on the faculty at Diablo Valley College and brings a deep personal connection to Martinez and its people.