We are delighted to share some exciting news! The SSAFE Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Ann Taves as the next Chair of the Board, effective immediately. The Board’s discussion reflected unanimous confidence and enthusiasm for Ann’s leadership and the future of SSAFE under her guidance.
Ann is Professor Emerita of Religious Studies, having taught for many years at Claremont before joining the University of California, Santa Barbara. Throughout her distinguished academic career, she also served in leadership positions within several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Religion.
Since moving to Pilgrim Place, Ann has become a driving force in the community’s sustainability efforts. She has served on the Environmental Concerns Committee (ECC) and, together with two colleagues, launched the Climate Resilience Initiative. She later coordinated the team that developed Pilgrim Place’s Sustainability Plan, which is now being implemented.
Recognizing opportunities to better align sustainability efforts across the community, Ann also helped reorganize Pilgrim Place’s sustainability-related committees under the SSAFE chapter, creating a coordinated structure that works closely with administrative advisory groups while engaging a broad base of residents in climate action.
Ann joined the SSAFE Board of Directors in January 2026 and has quickly become an active and valued member of the organization. She serves on the Chapter Engagement Committee and has represented Pilgrim Place in the SSAFE Energy Workgroup and other cross-chapter initiatives. Through this work, she has developed a deep understanding of SSAFE’s mission, our chapter network, and the collaborative spirit that defines our organization.
As SSAFE continues to expand its chapter network and strengthen its impact, we are confident that Ann’s experience, vision, and collaborative leadership will help guide the organization through its next stage of growth.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Jim Seif for his dedicated service as Acting Chair during this period of transition. His thoughtful leadership has helped position SSAFE for this exciting new chapter.
Please join us in congratulating Ann on her appointment as Board Chair and in thanking both Ann and Jim for their willingness to serve SSAFE.
