The Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC) commemorated its 60 year anniversary and introduced its new CEO, Steven Lewis, Tuesday. Photo by Ben Hensley

The Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC) commemorated its 60 year anniversary and introduced its new CEO, Steven Lewis, Tuesday, ushering a new era of leadership while paying homage and respect to the organization that has fostered economic growth in the region since its founding in 1965.

Fresno EOC’s new CEO brings with him more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and a passion for building positive economic change. Hailing from Baltimore, Lewis has served in leadership roles and Head Start programs throughout his career, fostering collaboration, empowerment and driving positive change.

Lewis expressed his gratitude for being selected for the role, sharing his connection to economic development reflected in his challenges growing up in East Baltimore.

Most recently, Lewis served as president and CEO of Community Partnership for Children Development in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“This is my fourth time being a CEO,” Lewis shared. “The first time you’ve got a big head; the second time you get slapped; the third time you get fired; the fourth time you start learning. If you don’t have humility by the fourth, something’s wrong with you — you shouldn’t be in the seat.”

Tuesday’s events also commemorated the organization’s 60th anniversary. Fresno EOC Board of Commissioners Chair Oliver Baines said that those 60 years should not be “celebrated” so much as “commemorated,” as the organization still has work to do in the region ushering residents out of poverty and into economically stable and productive environments.

“We are commemorating 60 years fighting poverty, not celebrating 60 years fighting poverty,” Baines said. “I think it’s an important distinction because we have a lot more work to do as a community and specifically as an agency.”

Fresno EOC runs more than 30 programs.

“For six decades, Fresno EOC has listened to the needs of our neighborhoods and responded with programs that make a difference,” Baines said. “With Steven’s leadership, we are confident the next chapter will be one of innovation, partnership, and even greater impact.”

Lewis’ appointment comes on the heels of a tumultuous time for the Fresno EOC, following its decision to not renew the contract of former CEO Emilia Reyes. Under Reyes, it was discovered that the organization had lost around $8 million in its reserves fund. Former CEO Brian Angus served as the organization’s interim CEO to help the organization solidify its financial status.