WESTLY - Key Persons
Co-founder Anita Yu came to philanthropy while raising her own children. She saw the need to help enhance the lives of children and youth across California. Previously, Ms. Yu spent her time working in the professional service industry, first as consultant for Accenture, managing large projects across multiply industries over the years. She also helped take Portal Software public as the Director of Professional Services for its West Coast and Asia offices.
Working with the foundation on strategic issues, her experience as a tech sector professional, as well as her experience as a parent leads her to create strategies that lay the groundwork for the overall, long-term success of the Foundation. Born in Hong Kong, Anita holds a B.S. from San Diego State University.
Jessica García-Kohl is the Executive Director of the Westly Foundation. For two decades she has dedicated her career to nonprofit, government and philanthropic sectors, serving to strengthen communities and create equitable opportunities for children, youth, and families. Previously, Jessica has held executive roles in non-profit education and affordable housing organizations, and has served as a policy advisor for the cities of San José and San Francisco. Jessica holds masters' degrees from the University of California, Berkeley in Public Policy and Public Health, and a bachelor's degree from Brandeis University.
Steve Westly - Founder, Managing Director
Steve Westly is the Founder and Managing Director of the Westly Group, one of the nation's largest venture funds investing in smart energy, smart mobility and smart building technologies.
Before launching his firm, Mr. Westly was California State Controller. Prior to that, he served as the Senior Vice President of Marketing, Business Development and International at eBay during its period of most rapid growth. Mr. Westly also served as Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party and as the California Co-Chair for President Obama's 2008 campaign. He also served on the faculty at Stanford's Graduate School of Business from 1991 to 1995. Steve has a BA and MBA from Stanford University.