Lori Cox to Depart Cal Wellness for Alameda County Leadership Role

It is with deep appreciation that we announce that Lori Cox, Vice President of Programs, will be leaving the foundation to become Chief Deputy County Administrator for Alameda County. After three years of dedicated service and outstanding leadership at Cal Wellness, her departure is a bittersweet moment—but one filled with gratitude and admiration.

In her new role, Cox returns to the county where she previously served for more than 25 years. Reporting to the County Administrator, she will lead strategic initiatives, countywide special projects, and multi-agency collaborations. At a time when strong, equity-focused public leadership is urgently needed, we are proud to see her continuing her service to community in this vital capacity.

Since joining Cal Wellness, Cox has been instrumental in advancing our mission to protect and improve the health and wellness of Californians—especially those whose well-being is most impacted by systemic inequities. Under her leadership, the Programs team expanded significantly, welcoming new talent with fresh perspectives and skills that have enriched our approach. She championed innovative grantees and partners, strengthened alignment between grant size and community needs, and prioritized greater efficiency and transparency in our grantmaking.

Cox has led with an eye to improving efficiency in our grantmaking process and a renewed focus on connecting directly with communities through in-person site visits and regional learning tours. She has championed innovative new grantees and partners, fostered cross-departmental collaboration between Programs, Grants Management, and Public Affairs, and led with clarity and compassion during times of crisis, including the Los Angeles County wildfires.

Through it all, she has helped ensure that Cal Wellness continues to be visible, responsive, and bold —unwavering in its commitment to equity and impact.

“I’m deeply grateful for my time at Cal Wellness. It’s been a privilege to be part of a foundation so firmly rooted in justice, and to work alongside colleagues and partners who are relentless in their pursuit of equity and wellness for all Californians,” Cox said. “I leave proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and inspired by what lies ahead for the foundation and the communities it serves. As I return to public service, I carry forward the values and lessons that this role has deepened in me.”

“Lori’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping Cal Wellness during a critical time. I am extremely grateful for her many contributions and her steadfast partnership, said Richard Tate, President and CEO. "On behalf of our entire staff and board, I say thank you and wish you success as you step into this next chapter.”

We are grateful for her leadership and look forward to celebrating her continued contributions to public service.

Cox's final day with Cal Wellness will be July 10, 2025.

Interim Leadership Update

During this transition, Alex Johnson, Vice President of Public Affairs, will assume interim leadership of both the Programs and Public Affairs departments. He brings extensive institutional experience to the role, having previously served as Interim Vice President of Programs, Chief of Staff, and Program Director at Cal Wellness.

Johnson's leadership reflects a deep understanding of our grantmaking priorities and a strong commitment to equity-centered philanthropy, collaborative team leadership, and aligning strategy across departments. With this interim structure in place, we are confident in a seamless transition that will preserve momentum and continue delivering on our mission with clarity and purpose in these challenging times.