Stephen Gutwillig

Stephen has been an integral part of the ESC team since 2017, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for driving impactful change in the nonprofit sector. Holding a B.A. from Harvard College and a coaching certification, Stephen’s experience combines academic rigor with practical expertise. In his capacity as Senior Advisor, Special Projects, Stephen leads the development of training and curricula for our Executive Directors Leadership Institute and volunteer training. Additionally, he oversees the project management of various consulting engagements, ensuring their successful execution from start to finish.

With over three decades of nonprofit experience, Stephen has dedicated his career to advancing the missions of various organizations. He has served as the Executive Director of SEE-LA, a prominent food justice organization in Los Angeles, as well as Deputy Executive Director for the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), where he spearheaded advocacy efforts for health-centered alternatives to drug policy. Stephen’s nonprofit journey also includes serving as Executive Director of Outfest, a renowned organization nurturing LGBTQ media. Additionally, he worked with the Labor/Community Strategy Center, focusing on social and environmental justice in Los Angeles.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Stephen is deeply passionate about LGBTQ history, racial justice, and performing arts, reflecting his commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Stephen’s dedication to nonprofit excellence, coupled with his diverse experiences and unwavering advocacy for social justice, makes him a valued member of the ESC team and a catalyst for positive change in the communities and nonprofits we serve.