Scott Vandrick Appointed as Pasadena Community Foundation’s Vice President of Philanthropy

Khanh Russo, President and CEO of the Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF), is pleased to announce that following an extensive search by Blair Search Partners, Scott Vandrick has been tapped to serve as PCF’s Vice President of Philanthropy. Scott assumed his new role on October 7, 2025. With a long and distinguished career in fundraising and nonprofit leadership, Scott returns to Pasadena with deep ties to the community and a clear focus on advancing PCF’s philanthropic impact.

Prior to joining the PCF, Scott served as Senior Director of Annual Giving and Stewardship at The Music Center, one of the nation’s largest performing arts organizations. There, he led strategic initiatives to deepen donor engagement, expand major gift participation, and strengthen philanthropic partnerships supporting music, dance, and community arts education across Los Angeles.

His career reflects more than three decades of nonprofit leadership and fundraising innovation. Scott has guided development teams at institutions such as the Pasadena Symphony and POPS, where his work with major donors and legacy supporters fueled artistic growth and long-term organizational sustainability. He is recognized for building authentic donor relationships rooted in shared values and civic investment.

As the current President of the Association of California Symphony Orchestras, Scott has helped shape statewide conversations about philanthropy, equity, and the role of the arts in community well-being. His leadership emphasizes collaboration among California’s art and culture leaders, ensuring that music continues to inspire, educate, and unite communities across the state.

Scott’s approach to philanthropy reflects PCF’s own values of investing in people, strengthening organizations, and supporting the long-term vitality of the region. Guided by collaboration and generosity, Scott views philanthropy as an investment in shared progress and collective well-being, which aligns seamlessly with PCF’s vision to build a connected and thriving community for all.

“I’m thrilled to return to Pasadena and to join the Pasadena Community Foundation at this pivotal time,” said Scott. “This community shaped me personally and professionally, and I look forward to helping PCF grow into the future under Khanh Russo’s leadership. Together, we will strengthen relationships, expand opportunities for giving, and ensure PCF continues to be a trusted partner for generations to come.”

About the Pasadena Community Foundation

Founded in 1953, the Pasadena Community Foundation promotes local philanthropy, with a mission to inspire generosity and engage the resources of our community for present needs unfulfilled and future needs unforeseen. The Foundation helps donors maximize the impact of their charitable contributions – strengthening the community, preserving cultural resources, and assisting those in need. In 2025, PCF’s Eaton Fire Relief & Recovery Fund has provided critical resources to community-based nonprofit agencies in support of families and individuals in Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre directly impacted by the Eaton Fire.