Cindy Downing is a Filipino-American living with apparent and non-apparent disabilities who champions community safety, wellness, joy, and collective liberation. Cindy joined The James Irvine Foundation in 2016 and was named Program Officer in 2019, where she oversees the Leadership Awards program. Each year, the Leadership Awards honor and resource innovative Californians tackling critical challenges facing the state. Cindy draws on decades of experience in the nonprofit and public sectors, with expertise in public and mental health, community development, and healthcare research. She has held notable positions at the International Antiviral Society-USA and the Contra Costa County Health Services Division. Cindy holds a B.A. in Political Science from San Francisco State University and a certificate in nonprofit management.
Cindy cherishes time with her family and shih tzu, surrounded by step stools and air purifiers. Her latest pursuit is mastering the art of tantrum management as a first-time mom.
