Sierra College Foundation Names New Executive Director
Admired Local Non-Profit, Corporate Executive Lori Rianda to Take the Helm in May
Sierra College Foundation (SCF) is excited to announce that renowned regional corporate and nonprofit leader Lori Rianda has been named its new executive director. She will succeed long-time executive director Sonbol Aliabadi, who announced her retirement earlier this year.
Rianda is a former local executive with Bank of America, where she oversaw community partnerships for 16 years, during which time she also served on the Sierra College Foundation Board of Directors. Rianda also served as the executive director of the Folsom Lake College Foundation for nearly five years, where she was widely recognized for managing an extraordinary capital campaign effort that raised more than $4.5 million in 18 months for a new performing arts center.
Currently serving on the boards of The Marguerite Home and WEAVE, Inc., with recent service on the Greater Sacramento Economic Council, Competitive Council and Valley Vision boards, Rianda brings a breadth of regional experience to the position. She is a highly-skilled executive with strong experience in branding, communications, community partnerships, impact investing and operations.
“Lori is an incredible blend of experience, connectedness and passion,” said Ed Bonner, President of the Sierra College Foundation Board of Directors. “A true visionary, Lori has a proven track record of success driving organizational growth to achieve strategic outcomes in corporate, foundation and non-profit sectors. We knew Sonbol’s successor needed to be pretty special, and Lori is the perfect person to lead SCF into its next chapter.”
“I have long known Lori as a dynamic, well-respected leader throughout the region, said Willy Duncan, Sierra College Superintendent/President. “As Sierra College and our Foundation continue to embrace new initiatives around workforce development, innovation, inclusive educational pathways, and holistic student support services, Lori’s expertise and keen understanding of the landscape will prove incredibly beneficial for our students and programs.”
Rianda earned a B.A. in marketing communications and liberal studies from DePaul University, as well as a certificate in the science of well-being from Yale University. She has been honored by the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Sacramento and Stockton, the Sacramento Business Journal and Sacramento Venture Philanthropy for her contributions to the arts, youth empowerment, mentorship and more.
“Sierra College has made a tremendous impact on the region,” said Rianda. “It’s admirable to see how the college and the foundation adapt rapidly to meet workforce needs and meet the needs of students in this changing environment. I am grateful to join this wonderful team to continue the SCF mission of philanthropy and meaningful social impact.”
Rianda starts with SCF on Monday, May 4, 2026, while Aliabadi’s last day with SCF will be Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
About Sierra College Foundation
SCF was founded in 1973 and serves as the advancement office for Sierra College. SCF is committed to aligning with the Sierra College mission of ensuring all students have access to an equitable, high-quality education where they are welcomed, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals. SCF supports students by raising money through private donations, corporate giving, grants and events. SCF is independently audited and governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, most of whom live and work in the communities served by the Sierra Joint Community College District of Placer, Nevada, and parts of Sacramento and El Dorado Counties. For more information about Sierra College Foundation and how to give or volunteer, visit: www.sierracollege.edu/foundation.