New president is a public education advocate

San Diego Education Fund’s new Interim President calls herself a public education advocate.

Rebecca Phillpott retired in 2015 after a 22-year career with San Diego Unified School District. During her final six years, she served as Program Manager for Dropout Prevention. In that role, she designed and directed “Check & Connect” intervention, attendance and engagement programs.

Earlier, she worked as a policy analyst for the Board of Education.

At the time, politics and legislation were her bailiwick. Previously, she had served as California Field Director for then-U.S. Sen. Alan Cranston and before that as a field representative to then-Assemblyman Jim Costa.

Today, Phillpott serves as an appointed member of the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

Years ago, the first volunteer position she accepted on a board of directors was for that of the San Diego Education Fund. Her previous tenure was from 2010 to 2019 and included service as President, Vice-President and Immediate Vice-President.

Public education is in her DNA. Both of her parents worked as public school teachers and principals

“You have a wealth of knowledge not just about San Diego Education Fund but about the district,” said outgoing President Susan Hoekenga.

San Diego Education Fund’s Board of Directors for 2024-25 includes: Rebecca Phillpott, President; Rhona Matthews, Vice President; Susan Hoekenga, Past President; Maureen Lamberti, Treasurer; Patty Bacame, Board Member; Barbara Brown, Board Member; Tert Soriano, Board Member; Johnnie Welborne, Board Member; Tara Welborne, Board Member, and Sharon Whitehurst-Payne, Board Member.