Barbara Coccodrilli Carlson Appointed as CEO and President of Children’s Council of San Francisco

Trusted early education leader with deep San Francisco roots to run important SF nonprofit organization 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (October 1, 2024) – The Board of Directors of Children’s Council of San Francisco are proud to announce that Barbara Coccodrilli Carlson has been appointed as the CEO and President effective November 18, 2024. Carlson is a distinguished leader with a deep background in early childhood education, social services, and strategic advocacy. 

Carlson delivers a wealth of experience, notably as the inaugural Director of the San Francisco Office of Early Care and Education appointed by Mayor Ed Lee in 2014. She also served in various key roles across the nation, such as Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for Human Services in New York City and Senior Consultant for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

“Barbara’s extensive background in partnering with stakeholders and implementing effective strategies will undoubtedly benefit the children and families served by Children’s Council of San Francisco. The Board was thrilled to appoint Barb, in large part because of her career-long commitment to causes so deeply aligned with ours,” said Rehana Abbas, Board Chair of Children’s Council of San Francisco. 

Ingrid Mezquita, Executive Director of the San Francisco Department of Early Childhood, added, “We are thrilled to welcome Barb Carlson as the CEO and President of Children’s Council, which the Department of Early Childhood partners as an important community institution. Her proven track record in providing strategic vision, community partnership, and advocacy for children and families makes her the ideal leader for the critical role that Children’s Council plays for San Francisco.” 

Carlson’s years of experience are highlighted by a long-standing connection with Children’s Council, having served as a staff attorney at the Child Care Law Center, as a policymaker in various roles with the City & County of San Francisco, and as Director of Early Childhood Programs at the Mimi & Peter Haas Fund. In addition, Carlson holds a master’s in Special Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. 

Barbara’s commitment to innovation, transparent governance and advocacy has been recognized through various awards and accolades, including the Family Child Care Association of California Advocate of the Year and the Mayor’s Proclamation for Service to the City and County of San Francisco under Mayor Willie Brown. Her expertise extends to strategic planning, grantmaking, policy analysis, and program management, with a strong focus on promoting racial equity, enhancing early childhood systems, and addressing homelessness and child welfare issues. 

About Children’s Council of San Francisco 

For 50 years, Children’s Council has been the heart of child care and early education in San Francisco, advancing the belief that high-quality child care can transform lives and communities. By advocating for quality early care and education, empowering families with information and financial support, and building the capabilities of educators, we ensure that every child in San Francisco has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ruben Pimentel, Children’s Council Director of Communications, rpimentel@childrenscouncil.org

Amie Latterman, Children’s Council Chief Advancement Officer, alatterman@childrenscouncil.org