New director has vision for county

Julie Morris to facilitate discussions for Community Vision San
Benito
Community Vision San Benito County announced Sept. 2 that it has
named Julie Morris as its new executive director.
Working with the steering committee, Morris will help facilitate
a community discussion about the strategic plan for the future of
Community Vision SBC.
Julie Morris to facilitate discussions for Community Vision San Benito

Community Vision San Benito County announced Sept. 2 that it has named Julie Morris as its new executive director.

Working with the steering committee, Morris will help facilitate a community discussion about the strategic plan for the future of Community Vision SBC.

“As a committee we were delighted to interview Julie Morris. Ms. Morris provided the committee with a skill set necessary for the success of this organization,” said Renee Kunz, a member of the steering committee. “I am reminded of a quote by Aristotle, ‘Those that know, do; those that understand, teach.’ Mrs. Morris has the tools to do and in order to see this position and group gain success, she must teach the vision to our community. We are lucky to have such an individual be passionate about this position and willing to give 110 percent.”

As executive director, Morris will oversee the implementation of Community Vision SBC policies set by the board of directors.

She will also work with community groups to establish annual goals and objectives and report on those annually. In addition, she will oversee financial management, administrative duties, fundraising, and public relations for the group.  She will also develop specific programs and services that assist in achieving Community Vision SBC’s strategic plan. This includes working with organizations such as – but not limited to – Community Foundation of San Benito County, local government, business community, schools, and other non-profits to gain community-wide support and collaboration with Community Vision SBC. 

“I am honored and excited to take on the Executive Director position with Community Vision SBC,” Morris said. “As a longtime San Benito County resident and business owner I see a bright future here. I look forward to working with all the groups in our community to reach that potential.”

Morris has more than five years of experience in corporate communications and was formerly a communications and government affairs manager at Earthbound Farm. She is also the co-founder and owner of Morris Grassfed Beef, a local ranch that direct markets grassfed beef to customers throughout California.

She is a graduate of San Diego State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She is also a 2005 graduate of the California Agricultural Leadership program, a two-year fellowship focusing on community involvement and leadership. She lives with her husband, Joe, and their two children in San Juan Bautista. 

Community Vision SBC was formed to establish a long-term vision for the county aimed at improving the area’s quality of life. The group was recently awarded a Packard Foundation grant to hire staff and establish its status as a stand-alone non-profit organization.

The Community Foundation of San Benito County is a 501c(3) dedicated to building a stronger community and enhancing the quality of life in San Benito County through support of philanthropic activities.