Meet the Fire Safe Council Team

Damien Peña joined our team in September 2025 as the Grants and Contracts Specialist. With 28 years of equity-driven leadership, including 18 in executive roles, he is a seasoned higher education and student affairs professional. His expertise lies in building systems that expand access, empowering cross-functional teams, and leading initiatives that remove barriers for underserved communities.

Born and raised in Ventura County, Damien made a lifelong commitment to return to his community and give back to the programs and services that supported his family’s journey. That commitment has guided his career, whether writing and managing $8.1M in federal and private grants, overseeing 22 student-focused programs, or co-creating mental health and basic needs services. His work is rooted in service, strategy, and shared accountability.

Damien earned a bachelor’s degree in Chicano Studies, a master’s in Social Work, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from California Lutheran University. He has authored 19 successful grants, restructured student engagement at three local colleges, and founded CLU’s first Summer Bridge program for first-generation students. He brings depth, strategy, and heart to every endeavor—always with the purpose of giving back to the community that gave so much to him.