Placer Community Foundation CEO honored as Exemplary Leader by American Leadership Forum

Veronica Blake, CEO of the Placer Community Foundation, was honored by the American Leadership Forum – Mountain Valley Chapter (ALF-MVC) with the Exemplary Leader Award at the organization's 2025 Exemplary Leaders Dinner. The annual dinner, held Oct. 24, celebrates regional leaders who strengthen and inspire their communities through collaboration, compassion and vision. Blake was recognized alongside two other honorees: Roy Brewer, managing partner at Brewer Lofgren LLP, and Larry Lee, president and publisher of The Observer Media Group. Under Blake's leadership, the Placer Community Foundation has grown into a trusted philanthropic partner that connects donors to causes that matter most in Placer County. Her collaborative approach has mobilized millions in charitable giving and strengthened efforts in areas such as affordable housing, education and community health. "I'm deeply humbled to receive this recognition alongside Roy and Larry, two leaders who care deeply about our region," said Blake. "This award reflects the collective effort of so many people working every day to build a stronger Placer County." The Exemplary Leaders Dinner brought together business, nonprofit and civic leaders from across the region for an evening of storytelling, connection and shared purpose, celebrating leadership that transforms communities.