John Culpepper Named Director of Development at the Y

A graduate of Arizona State University with a varied professional background, John Culpepper has recently joined the staff at the Crescenta-Cañada YMCA as their new director of development. Culpepper brings an extensive resume with him, including several years of experience working with non-profits.

"I believe organizations like the YMCA bring a lot to their communities and are historic pillars of American society," said Culpepper. "I anticipate it will be very rewarding to go out there and champion their cause in an effort to raise funds to insure that everyone interested can reap the benefits."

Since 2002, Culpepper has worked for the Friends of Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Audubon California and the Muhammed Ali Center. In the years leading up to those endeavors, he also worked extensively in marketing for various corporations. Beyond the professional accomplishments, Culpepper is also involved with the Boy Scouts of America, a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the annual fund captain at Saint Marks School in Altadena.

"Like most guys over 40, I have hobbies including roses, fresh water aquariums and I'm actively involved in American Indian culture," Culpepper said. "I also help the Boy Scouts of America (council finance committee); two of my boys are cubs and I was an Eagle Scout."

Culpepper has five children — Leah, Lane, Peter, Matthew, and Eric — and lives in Altadena with his wife, Lisa Culpepper Heidel, a 6th grade teacher at Saint Mark's.

"It's a bit of a baptism by fire for me here at the Y as I started just prior to the start of preparations for next February's annual campaign," Culpepper said. "It's a big challenge, but I look forward to doing my part in making it a great success."