Blog

The Foundation at Hearst Castle Welcomes New Executive Director and Board Members


SAN SIMEON, CA, JUNE 24, 2024 —

The Foundation at Hearst Castle is thrilled to announce the appointment of Doug Jenzen as its new Executive Director, along with welcoming Lisa Haas and Susan Boutonnet as the newest members of its board of directors. These appointments come at an exciting time as the Foundation continues to enhance its efforts in preserving the cultural and historical integrity of this iconic landmark.

Doug Jenzen brings over 29 years of experience in nonprofit leadership to his new role as Executive Director of the Foundation at Hearst Castle. Previously, as Vice President of Engagement and Access at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, Doug led a diverse team, managing a thriving retail and visitor experience operation. His strategic leadership not only increased visitor engagement significantly but also transformed the museum store into an educational resource that contributed notably to the center’s financial health. A Cal Poly graduate, Doug’s previous work in California’s central coast also includes uncovering and restoring a nearly century-old Cecil B. DeMille movie set.

As Executive Director, Jenzen will be overseeing all aspects of the organization – including the management and growth of membership, pursuing grant opportunities, strategic planning, budget implementation, and securing ongoing funding.

“Doug’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility is evident through his initiatives to ensure that all community members – regardless of physical, cultural, or economic barriers – can engage with and enjoy the benefits of educational and cultural resources,” says Schuyler Hoversten, President of The Foundation at Hearst Castle Board. “His strategic planning abilities and commitment to heritage conservation are expected to drive significant advancements in the Foundation’s efforts to preserve and enhance the historical integrity of Hearst Castle. Doug’s innovative approaches and deep understanding of the nonprofit landscape will be instrumental as he leads the Foundation towards new heights in the coming years.”

Lisa Haas joins the board of the Foundation at Hearst Castle with over 25 years of expertise in the Specialty Finish field as a leading decorative artist and licensed painting contractor in Northern California. Her work, which adorns both residential and commercial spaces locally and internationally, showcases her mastery in creating and restoring visually stunning environments. Lisa’s artistic skills extend beyond traditional aesthetics – she brings a unique blend of creativity and technical knowledge that is vital for the meticulous restoration projects at Hearst Castle.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lisa is deeply invested in community engagement and education. Her commitment to the community is exemplified in her teaching of Mycology classes, which combine her love for science and nature. Lisa’s diverse background, from managing a full-time crew of talented painters to her innovative work in the decorative arts, positions her as a dynamic contributor to the Foundation’s board, enhancing both its conservation efforts and its mission to connect the public with the artistic and historical significance of Hearst Castle.

Susan Boutonnet, a seventh-generation Californian, joins the Foundation at Hearst Castle with a robust background in community development and property management. As a partner at Village 5 LLC, Susan has been instrumental in providing safe and affordable housing solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to community integrity and support. Her work in developing properties that align with the needs of the community has not only transformed local neighborhoods but also fostered sustainable growth and improved quality of life for residents.

Currently serving on the boards of several nonprofits, including the Key For a Cure Foundation and the Salinas Police Foundation, Susan’s involvement underscores her commitment to enhancing the well-being and prosperity of the Central Coast and Central Valley regions. Her extensive network and experience in both leadership and grassroots initiatives will be invaluable in advancing the Foundation at Hearst Castle’s educational and preservation missions.


About The Foundation at Hearst Castle

Established in 1985, The Foundation at Hearst Castle (formerly called Friends of Hearst Castle) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cooperating association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks.

Through membership and fundraising, The Foundation supports educational, interpretive, and preservation programs for Hearst Castle and California State Parks. Through the Foundation, businesses, philanthropic organizations, and individuals can provide support and engagement with Hearst Castle.

To find out more about The Foundation at Hearst Castle, please visit www.foundationathearstcastle.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to stay in the loop on the latest news and updates.


The Foundation at Hearst Castle is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks. EIN 77-0068533.

 

SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION, AND INSPIRE FUTURE GENERATIONS TO DREAM BIG!