Dear LightHouse Community,

I am writing to you with a heavy heart as I share some difficult news. After much consideration, I have made the decision to resign from my position as CEO of LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired San Francisco, effective March 31.

Recently, I received a challenging health diagnosis that requires my immediate focus and attention. As I undergo treatment for cancer, I have made the difficult decision to step down from my role in order to prioritize my health and well-being. Given the rigorous demands of my treatment and the unpredictable nature of my health journey, I believe this is the best course of action for both myself and the organization.

In the coming days, I will be relocating to be near family for the support and care I need during this time. I anticipate requiring assistance throughout my treatment and recovery.

Serving as the CEO of LightHouse has been the greatest honor of my career. I am immensely proud of the progress we have made together in advancing our mission, though there is more to be done. I regret the abruptness of my departure but have full confidence in the capable leadership of our C-Suite team and Board to continue guiding the organization forward.

Throughout my tenure, I have been continually inspired by the resilience and dedication of our staff and clients, as well as the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our stakeholders. Together, we have navigated challenges and achieved milestones, driven by a shared commitment to improving the lives of those we serve.

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and I am collaborating closely with the Board and senior leadership to facilitate the transfer of responsibilities. I am confident that LightHouse will continue to thrive and grow for the next 120+ years.

I extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support over the years. Your dedication has been instrumental in shaping the success of LightHouse, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as your CEO.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of this incredible journey. The memories of our achievements together will always hold a special place in my heart.

Warmest regards,

Sharon L. Giovinazzo

The LightHouse team is gearing up for the CEO Welcome Reception to honor our new Chief Executive Officer, Sharon Giovinazzo. Join LightHouse staff, students, and Bay Area community members, alongside special guests, LightHouse Board Chair, Sharon Sacks, and former LightHouse CEO, Anita Aaron, as we formally celebrate new leadership as we enter the new year and a new chapter in LightHouse history.
 
“I am honored to join the leadership team at LightHouse as its new CEO,” said Sharon Giovinazzo. “This organization has a long and successful track record of driving and achieving independence, equality and self-reliance for the community.”

The welcome reception will begin at 4:00 pm on Friday, January 27. As our guests arrive, they will be greeted with a complementary beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverage refreshment bar and all their favorite charcuterie snacks. They will enjoy their refreshments as they mingle with fellow attendees and peruse the LightHouse Programs, Enchanted Hills Camp and Adaptations tables, where staff will offer the latest information and answer any questions about our services people may have.
 
Formal introductions and kind words of welcome will be shared by Sharon Sacks, Anita Aaron, and Sharon G. around 4:45, followed by more mingling and conversations as CEO Sharon and four-legged CEO (Canine Executive Officer) Pilot make their rounds throughout the party. All LightHouse students, staff, and supporters are invited to attend. If you have not yet done so, we encourage our guests to formally RSVP to the CEO Welcome Reception. We can’t wait to see you all next Friday!

What: CEO Welcome Reception
When: Friday, January 27, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm  
Where: LightHouse San Francisco, 1155 Market St. 10^th Floor – Directions to LightHouse San Francisco
RSVP: Please register for the CEO Welcome Reception 
 
Following the reception, you may attend a private screening of the documentary Surpassing Sight, which follows two blind men, Jack Chen and Dan Berlin, who tackle the toughest cycling race in the world, Race Across America. The film will be followed by a Q&A with Jack and documentary producer Lukas Behnken. Check out our interview with Jack below.