Lookout Santa Cruz

Each week, we’re taking a closer look at the movers and shakers, the growth of industries and what’s really driving the Santa Cruz County economy. I’ll be spotlighting some of the biggest areas for opportunity, updates on local development and all things underpinning the regional business scene each Wednesday. Got ideas? Send them my way to news@lookoutlocal.com with “Business News” in the subject line.

When longtime Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County Executive Director Karen Delaney began preparing for retirement, the organization knew it had big shoes to fill. So big, in fact, that the board kicked off an 18-month strategic planning process to help chart the organization’s next chapter. Key to those efforts was Shawn Peterson, who was officially announced as executive director in July. Peterson has been serving as interim director since January, and has been with the organization for a decade.