Dr. Renee Rubin Ross ('87) is a recognized leader on board and organizational development and strategy and the founder of The Ross Collective, a consulting firm that designs and leads inclusive, participatory processes for social sector boards and staff.

Past or current strategic planning, facilitation or training clients include: Academic Senate for California Community Colleges, Bike East Bay, Cal State University East Bay, Construction Trades Workforce Initiative, East Oakland Collective, Feed Black Futures, Food and Farm Resilience Coalition, interACT, La Cocina, Los Altos-Mountain View Community Foundation, Magic Cabinet, Mission Bit, National VOAD, New Museum Los Gatos, San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity, Student Achievement Partners, SOS Meals on Wheels, Yerba Buena Gardens Conservancy, Youth ALIVE! and others.

Committed to racial equity in the nonprofit sector, Dr. Ross guides leaders and organizations in strategic plans and governance processes that deepen social change, racial justice, engagement, and community strength. In addition to her consulting work, Dr. Ross is the Director of the Cal State University East Bay Nonprofit Management Certificate program and teaches Strategic Planning and Board Development for the program.

Dr. Ross lives in the San Francisco East Bay. She is a past Board member of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management and a member of the Technology of Participation facilitators’ network. Her Doctorate in Education and Jewish Studies from New York University explored parent participation in schools. Her book on Inclusive Strategic Planning for Nonprofits: A five step process to expand energy, alignment and opportunity will be published in 2026.