Paul I. Lanning, MS, EdD, CFRE

Dr. Paul Lanning is an accomplished nonprofit executive and consultant with a demonstrated record of transformational leadership, organizational growth, and results-driven philanthropy. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he has led and advised nonprofit organizations at the local, regional, and statewide levels, with responsibility for strategy, governance, fundraising, communications, and institutional advancement. Across his leadership and consulting work, Dr. Lanning has helped organizations collectively raise more than $250 million in philanthropic and public support.

Dr. Lanning currently serves as President and CEO of HealthForce Partners California, a multi-county healthcare workforce partnership advancing worker-centered career pathways, cross-sector collaboration, and community-based solutions to healthcare labor shortages throughout the Northern San Joaquin Valley and adjacent regions. His recent work includes designing and scaling sector partnerships, advising boards and executive leadership teams, leading interim and advisory engagements, and supporting complex organizational transitions, capacity-building efforts, and major fundraising initiatives.

Previously, Dr. Lanning held senior leadership roles including President and CEO of the Foundation for California Community Colleges, Vice President for University Advancement at San José State University, and Assistant Vice President for Development at University of the Pacific. In addition to his executive leadership experience, he has consulted with numerous nonprofit and civic organizations throughout California on governance, executive leadership, fundraising strategy, organizational assessment, and growth planning.

Dr. Lanning has also served as a graduate-level instructor in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, marketing, program review, and grant writing at University of the Pacific. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego; an M.S. in Sport Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst; and an Ed.D. in Educational Administration and Leadership from University of the Pacific. He is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and has served on numerous nonprofit and community boards, including organizations focused on education, workforce development, and youth development.