Steven R. Lewis has been hired as the new CEO of the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission. He has extensive experience in the Head Start program for young children — a key part of Fresno EOC's mission. Fresno EOC images

The Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC) has named a new CEO with hope to close the books on recent financial troubles.

Steven R. Lewis will take the reins as the new CEO effective later this month.

His appointment marks a new chapter for the organization as it continues its mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities across Fresno County, according to a news release.

A search began in January after the official departure of former CEO Emilia Reyes, who was placed on a leave of absence starting in November 2024. That move came as Fresno EOC commissioners and the public learned of a $3 million budget deficit — about 3% of its total annual budget of $134 million.

Reyes had been in the position since 2020.

Lewis brings over two decades of experience in nonprofit and Head Start leadership, including executive roles in Pennsylvania and Missouri. He also spent nearly ten years as a consultant helping agencies enhance management practices and expand community impact. He is well-versed in the Head Start program and the national Community Action network, both of which are central to Fresno EOC’s work.

Head Start is a federally funded program promoting early learning and development, health and family well-being for children from birth to age five. Community Action Agencies — nearly 900 across the country — are empowered by the federal Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.

Fresno EOC was founded in 1965.

“Steven’s leadership arrives at a crucial time,” said Oliver Baines, chair of the Fresno EOC Board of Commissioners. “He has the vision and experience to guide the organization forward with integrity and focus.”

Lewis holds a Master of Business Administration from LaSalle University in Philadelphia and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. He is also a graduate of the UCLA Anderson Head Start Management Fellows Program.

“I’m honored to step into this role and lead an organization with such an important mission,” Lewis said. “I believe in the power of community action and look forward to working alongside the dedicated staff, board, and partners who make Fresno EOC’s work possible.”

Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC) is one of the largest nonprofit Community Action Agencies in the nation. The agency serves over 100,000 people annually through programs focused on education, employment, health and housing.