LACCF Welcomes New Associate Executive Director

Martha C. Esparza will begin serving as the Associate Executive Director of the Los Angeles City College Foundation, marking a meaningful return to the organization where she previously served as Director of Corporate, Foundation, and External Relations. In that role, she led efforts to expand philanthropic partnerships and secure institutional support to benefit LACC students. Most recently, Martha held key leadership positions at the Cerritos College Foundation, including Senior Development Officer and Interim Executive Director. During her time there, she advanced strategic fundraising initiatives and deepened engagement with major donors, corporations, and foundations to strengthen student support.

With a career grounded in advancing access to higher education, Martha brings a deep commitment to equity and community-centered philanthropy. As a first-generation college graduate and daughter of immigrants, she understands the transformative power of education and is driven by a mission to expand opportunities for students from historically underserved backgrounds. Her leadership is defined by integrity, collaboration, and a strategic focus on aligning donor engagement with student success. Martha is honored to return to the LACC Foundation and continue supporting its mission of empowering students through education.

For those who may not recognize the last name, Martha was recently married. She is also the proud mother of Isabella, who graduated from Oregon State University just last month. Her personal journey as a mother and professional continues to shape her passion for creating pathways to success for the next generation.