Karla Fitzgerald has shaped a distinguished career by implementing innovative strategies and practices within Fortune 500 companies. Karla's focus on establishing safe cultures, developing workforce safety training programs, and executing comprehensive environmental management systems has carved out her unique place in the industry. Her remarkable contributions to hazard and risk assessment, compliance enforcement, and strategic leadership have influenced an entire sector, resulting in substantial financial savings and thriving environments.
Based in Los Angeles, Karla recently led North American safety and risk operations at Aramark Corporation as the Vice President of EHS. Notably, she has revolutionized compliance recognition, leading to a significant decrease in workers’ compensation costs, saving corporations millions. She has implemented field reporting systems, automated communication tools, and restructured safety programs for 20,000 employees serving 300,000 customers at 350 facilities. These initiatives elevated compliance scores to A+ ratings across the country.
Her professional journey took her to Goodwill Southern California prior to Aramark. As the Director of Environmental Health & Safety, she developed innovative EHS and risk initiatives, supervised auditing programs for at-risk populations, and ensured regulatory compliance throughout southern California locations.
Karla's educational background complements her professional journey. She holds a Master of Public Administration in Environmental Management and Non-Profit studies from Kean University. She also obtained her B.S. degree in Environmental Science and Human Ecology from Rutgers University. This solid academic foundation laid the groundwork for her substantial contributions to her field.
Karla's professional journey mirrors her commitment to enhancing health, safety, and environmental practices in every organization and community she serves. Her unwavering dedication, combined with her verifiable track record of success, showcases her unique ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver unique results to targeted communities.
Andrew Shelton, MBA - Treasurer
Andrew is a driven financial professional with an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business and a bachelor’s in economics. He specializes in financial management, investment strategy, and corporate finance, with a strong foundation in economic principles and market analysis.
Throughout his academic and professional journey, Andrew has demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and a passion for venture capital. He currently manages a business portfolio at a Fortune 500 company and remains committed to financial strategies that drive growth.
A former Section Representative and member of the Entrepreneurship Venture Capital Club, Andrew brings a unique blend of analytical skills and social responsibility. With a deep understanding of the needs in underserved communities, he is dedicated to advancing equity and impact through his work. Andrew will apply this expertise to support strategic growth and financial success at Safety InColor.
Ty Ward - BOARD MEMBER
As our Chief AI Officer, Ty brings over a decade of invaluable experience in the tech industry, particularly from his tenure at Google and META, where he has distinguished himself through his innovative approach to client account strategies and asset management. With a B.S. degree in marketing, Ty has consistently demonstrated his ability to design, implement, and manage cutting-edge strategies that drive results.
At Google LLC, Ty's focus on leveraging his educational background and professional experience has been instrumental in building and nurturing networks across multifunctional business communities. His conscientious and creative approach to design has earned him recognition as a leader among his industry peers. Ty has successfully led global internal marketing and operations teams for Fortune 500 companies, contributing to the consistent usage of end-user platforms.
Ty's talent for collaboration across diverse disciplines and stakeholders has been a key asset in developing winning account strategies. His most notable achievement includes spearheading the development of a global training leadership guidance platform tailored for the digital age, showcasing his visionary leadership and commitment to innovation.
Based in Los Angeles, Ty is deeply passionate about technology and is dedicated to supporting community-based missions aligned with his industry interests. With his wealth of experience and passion for driving positive change, Ty Ward is poised to make a significant impact as a valuable member of Safety InColor’s Board of Directors as our brand and technology strategist.
Delena Zimmerman, MA, LMFT - Secretary
Delena has enjoyed an accomplished career over the past 20 years engaging with diverse audiences. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a proficient group facilitator. Additionally, she has instructed research to graduate students in psychology for over three years. Notably, she caters to individuals from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, employing a strengths-based approach to therapy. Delena possesses the ability to walk alongside individuals, aiding them in navigating through some of the most challenging community issues.
Understanding the importance of treating all individuals with respect and dignity, Delena acknowledges the obstacles faced by marginalized communities. She recognizes the challenges these communities encounter in overcoming environmental and social injustices, often unrelated to their actions.
Delena's approach centers on providing a non-judgmental environment to assist others in managing past and present uncertainties. With years of experience as a problem solver and dedicated educator, she has conducted leadership programs nationally, inspiring others with her work. Her involvement with non-profit organizations has further enhanced her standing, leading to her recognition as an esteemed member of Safety InColor's Board of Directors.
Combining her educational background with her professional expertise, Delena has demonstrated herself as a formidable force in her field and the communities she serves. She adeptly transforms individuals and communities while respecting and preserving their cultural authenticity.