Nina Andro Named President of Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation Succeeding the Retiring Founder, Karen Wagener

LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwired - December 20, 2017) - The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation's Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Nina Andro as their new President. She is succeeding Karen Wagener, the Foundation's founder and President who is retiring after an incredibly successful career.

Andrew Kane, Chairman of the Board said, "We are delighted that Nina is joining us. She brings an impressive record of successfully growing non-profits. Her insight and experience are essential in taking the Foundation to the next level."

"I couldn't be happier to have been selected," commented Ms. Andro. "The LAFD Foundation is an extraordinary organization to be involved with. Nothing could be more important than supporting our firefighters and helping them be prepared for the emergencies that occur daily in our city. The recent fires, the homes, businesses and lives they saved are a testament to their commitment and heroism. This is a mission that I am very passionate about and honored to be working with the LAFD."

Ms. Andro has helped multiple charities raise millions of dollars through corporate partnerships, creating and producing signature fundraising events and through engaging community and government support. She brings to the LAFD Foundation her innovative and entrepreneurial skills in strategic marketing, brand development, production and communications honed through her companies Acclaim Consulting and Big Sur Films. Her diverse client base included the Spanish government of the Balearic Islands, Union Rescue Mission, Drago Restaurant Group, YWCA and higher education.

Karen Wagener retires after decades of service to the City of Los Angeles. Her lengthy history of commitment includes Executive Director of the City's Volunteer Bureau and as President of the LA Police Foundation before founding the LAFD Foundation in 2010. She said, "I leave the Foundation in very capable hands with Nina at the helm. Her energy, ideas, experience and desire to expand the Foundation's reach is very exciting."

Andrew Kane said, "Karen is a role model for making our City a better place to live. Her contributions are so extensive that the Foundation would not have been feasible without her energy and vison. Our LAFD and community are the beneficiaries of Karen's contributions. We wish her well and say the biggest thank you."

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is the major source of private support for the LAFD, picking up where the city's budget ends. They provide funds for equipment, technology, training and youth programs that are not included in the City budget. The Foundation has raised over $5 million for LA's first responders.

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