Foundation News and Events
Presentation of a Grant for the Library
The City of St. Helena, represented by the Mayor, City Manager, and beloved Library staff receive a symbolic check from members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Director of Friends and Foundation in 2023. The check represented a quarter of the year's $140,000 total amount granted. The Library is largely funded by the City; the Foundation's grants significantly bolster funds available for programming, materials, and part-time personnel to benefit the Library and its patrons.
Wine & Words: Sharing Stories and Sips
Close to 40 participants gathered on May 16, 2024 at the Carnegie Building in town for a lively and intimate evening. There, they met winemakers Chris Jones, Scott Mangelson and Heidi Bamburg, Melinda Kearney, and Lars Bjorkman. Zia Wesley, event chair and member of the Board of Directors was applauded and appreciated although unable to attend. Board President Laura Symon and Executive Director Deanna M. Griffin greeted everyone, and then the talented winemakers took over. Groups of guests progressed from table to table to discuss favorite books, hear unforgettable stories, and sample prized wines. The program elicited reflection, connection, laughter. The Foundation thanks everyone who made the evening a success!
Each year, Friends and Foundation organizes one or two ticketed events to gather library-lovers in support of our prized treasure: The St. Helena Public Library.
Join our email list (below) to receive notices about future events.
New Executive Director
Friends and Foundation Welcomes Deanna M. Griffin
In January 2024, the Board of Directors welcomed Deanna M. Griffin as executive director. A seasoned leader in humanities, arts, and culture and the daughter of a longtime St. Helena Public Library patron, Deanna brings to the Foundation her decades of nonprofit management experience and sincere appreciation of our organization and our region.
From October 2023 through the first half of 2024, Robin McKee-Cant was an invaluable colleague to Deanna. A new part-time administrative assistant will join the staff later in the year.
Reach our staff by email at Friends@shplFoundation.org.
