LOS ALTOS, CA (June 27, 2023) – Los Altos History Museum is pleased to announce the addition of five new directors to its board of directors and a slate of new officers for its executive committee. These individuals bring a wealth of diverse experience and expertise, further strengthening the Museum’s commitment to preserving and promoting the history of Los Altos and its surrounding communities.
“As the Museum emerges from several years of shutdowns related to COVID and construction projects, we are very excited to have a strong board that will help us position the Museum for a very bright future,” said Executive Director Dr. Elisabeth Ward.
Beginning their three-year terms July 1, 2023, the newly appointed board directors are:
Allison Aldrich, a Los Altos resident since 2000. Allison is a dedicated community leader with a passion for preserving local history. She serves as the President of the Claremont McKenna College parent board and is an ex-officio member of their Board of Trustees. Allison is also actively involved in the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) and contributes as a Los Altos CERT and BAT member. Additionally, she volunteers as a docent at the Los Altos History Museum. With a background in management consulting, product design, and product management, Allison holds an MA in art history.
Wynn Belton, a resident of the area for 44 years. Wynn brings a strong background in technology sales and a deep commitment to the community. After graduating from Los Altos High School, he earned a BA in political science from UC Berkeley. Currently, he leads the global cyber security sales organization at Palo Alto Networks. Outside of work, Wynn finds joy in playing basketball, international travel, hiking, and supporting his children’s diverse activities on the weekends.
Cindy Bogard O’Gorman, a graduate of Gunn High School who went on to earn a BA in sociology from UCLA. Cindy has excelled in executive management positions and brings a diverse background in social work, fundraising, marketing, and eleven years in real estate—currently with The Agency in Los Altos. She actively contributes to the community through organizations like the Rotary Club of Los Altos and the Mentor Tutor Connection.
Christopher Fling, an eight-year resident of Los Altos and a 20-year veteran real estate agent. In 2015, he co-founded Fling Yang & Associates with partner Karen Yang. For the past two years, Christopher has actively volunteered at the Los Altos History Museum as a docent and store helper. He finds joy in sharing the Museum’s recent evolution with visitors and community members alike. Christopher’s dedication to service is demonstrated through his previous board positions with esteemed organizations such as the American Heart Association and local food banks. He holds an MA in organizational management from the University of Phoenix.
Jay Thomas, a resident of Los Altos since 1977. With a distinguished career in the technology industry, Jay held numerous executive positions before retiring. His commitment to education is evident through his previous role as the president of the Los Altos Education Foundation (LAEF) and his 12-year tenure as an elected member of the Los Altos School District (LASD) Board, including three terms as Board President. He earned an MS in communications systems engineering from Santa Clara University.
The 2023-2024 executive committee officers are:
President, Larry Lang
1st Vice President, Vicki Holman
2nd Vice President, Kuljeet Kalkat
Secretary, Jay Thomas
Treasurer, Wayne Hooper
The Museum expresses their appreciation for the devoted service of departing board directors Nicole Andrews, John Beman, Catherine Greenberg, Gary Hedden, and Jan Thomas.
Los Altos History Museum began in 1977 with the opening of the J. Gilbert Smith House historic farmhouse, built in 1905. In 2001, the Los Altos History Museum opened its modern building next door, which houses the Museum’s collections, permanent and changing exhibits, store and administrative offices. The Museum and its grounds are available for rent during evenings and weekends. Its collections are owned by the City of Los Altos and are managed by an independent nonprofit organization, whose staff and volunteers are responsible for all programs and operations.
The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon-4pm. Admission is free. Tours of the J. Gilbert Smith House are available during open hours. The outdoor agricultural exhibit, gardens and picnic area are accessible beyond Museum hours. For more information, visit: losaltoshistory.org, email hello@losaltoshistory.org, or phone 650.948.9427 x14.
Media Contact: Marketing@losaltoshistory.org
Los Altos History Museum: Elisabeth I. Ward, 650.948.9427 x10, eward@losaltoshistory.org
