A WOMAN OF DISTINCTION Susan Black prepared for a life of philanthropy

Before becoming one of the most influential business women in the Central Coast and in the Silicon Valley, Susan Black worked as a flight attendant, for the Department of Defense, in real estate, and in marketing for a bank. All these experiences, she said, prepared her for a successful career in banking.

“Early in my banking career, I was committed to fighting for equal access to credit – now, I am concerned about access to education,” she said. “Personally, education made an enormous difference in opening doors for me, and I feel strongly that education not only changes lives, but also has a significant impact on the community as a whole.”

Susan is the picture of grace and philanthropy. Over 10 years ago, she joined the Hartnell College Foundation with a goal to uplift her community through education.

“I am so impressed with Jackie Cruz and her leadership and phenomenal work leading the Foundation,” she said. “It’s all about the students and the Foundation is committed to the students.”

Susan ended her first seven-year term on the Foundation Board, took a one-year break, and returned for a second term. Her love for Hartnell students was palpable.

“Every time I leave the campus after a meeting, I am so inspired,” she said.  “The stories shared by the student speakers at each meeting or program are indeed impressive and touching.”

In addition to her board involvement, Susan is one of the founding members of the Women’s Education and Leadership Institute (WELI) at Hartnell. This is one of the innovative programs supported by the Foundation that has nationally recognized statistics. Each year, 25 young ladies join WELI, receive a scholarship, and are matched with a mentor for one year.

“This work is rewarding,” she said. “I am amazed by everyone’s commitment.”

Black is from Wisconsin, and is the youngest of five girls. Her sense of adventure led her to attend the University of Hawaii for her bachelors and Rochester Business School in New York for her master’s degree.

She founded Pinnacle Bank in 2006 and served as President/CEO from 2008 to 2017.  She currently enjoys her role as Chairman of the Board, a title that gives her great flexibility to volunteer. Aside from her commitment to the Foundation board, she serves as Chair for the Rancho Cielo Board of Directors.

Black is married to Aris Angelopoulos and they enjoy their ‘happy place’ in Pebble Beach. They have two grown children and four grandchildren, whom they love to play with. She enjoys gardening, reading, and walking on the beach.

The Hartnell College Foundation feels fortunate to have donors, supporters, and board members like Susan Black, whose leadership and commitment is contributing to the betterment of our community. Her unconditional love for and dedication to Hartnell students is invaluable and transformative. Thank you, Susan!

A MAN OF VALOR REMEMBERED Alfred Diaz-Infante’s Celebration of Life

On Saturday, January 29, 2022, the Hartnell College Foundation co-hosted the Celebration of Life for Alfred Diaz-Infante in Hartnell College’s Student Center. The program was emceed by Alfred’s son, Marcos Diaz-Infante, and dear friend Kurt Gollnick.

More than 250 guests came together to offer tribute to a man who touched the hearts and changed the lives of many. Diaz-Infante was the CEO of CHISPA, where he helped provide housing for low-income families.  Alfred also invested time and effort into his community by participating on a number of boards, where he contributed to the success of many community organizations.

The written program for the event included an obituary, written by Alfred’s niece, Amy Diaz-Infante, which set the tone for the celebration saying, “While so many of us looked to Alfred for his knowledge and insight, he was also someone who loved to listen with an analytical mind and to learn from others. We will remember his stories, his ceviche recipe, his quiet but confident demeanor, and perhaps most of all, his sense of humor.”

Many friends, colleagues and family members shared from the heart about Alfred’s impact during the event.

Mentees Jose Garcia and Jonathan De Anda as well as Alfred’s lifelong friend, Benny Tiscareno reflected on Alfred’s presence, and his determination to make time for the people and things that he loved. His life was about others, showing them their value and helping them reach their potential. 

Retired Chief Financial Officer of CHISPA, Norm Kolpin, shared that Alfred could have chosen to pursue a successful career anywhere, but that his roots in and heart for Salinas committed him to this community for life. 

Alfred’s two daughters, Alexis and Karina, and son Marcos spoke of Alfred as their beloved father. Their admiration for their dad and how much they will miss his love, kindness, and great conversations was evident, and it was also clear that they know his legacy will be a lasting one. 

We are certain that Alfred’s legacy will not only be seen in the work to provide affordable housing for families and educational opportunities for youth in our community, but in the work of making others feel at home.

During the event, the Hartnell Foundation announced that the Alfred Diaz-Infante Legacy Memorial Fund has exceeded the $40,000 guaranteed match amount from the Hartnell College Foundation Board. Foundation Executive Director, Jackie Cruz, invited Alfred’s friends and colleagues to continue to honor Alfred with gifts to the fund as we seek to increase the matching amount. You may contribute to this fund by visiting: https://hartnellfoundation.org/alfred-diaz-infante-legacy-memorial-fund/

A photo gallery can be viewed by visiting the CHISPA Housing Facebook page by clicking: https://www.facebook.com/Chispa-Housing-143136989075665/photos