A recently launched nonprofit focusing on advancing economic equity by developing civically engaged leaders among the city’s marginalized has just announced its first executive director.

Alyssa Gutierrez, who left her post as Councilman Rex Richardson’s policy director, will replace interim Executive Director Steve Neal, who has been elected to serve as the Economic & Policy Impact Center’s board president.

“As a consistent champion for emerging leaders, I am pleased to extend this leadership opportunity to such a dynamic, driven, and passionate young leader who has the vision and tools to develop EPIC into an influential and effective platform for other emerging leaders and marginalized communities,” said Neal, who once served as councilman for the Ninth Council District in North Long Beach.

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Gutierrez will be tasked with developing the nonprofit’s strategic plan, including fundraising, communication and partnerships as well as programs with a focus on emerging leaders, policy advocacy and research, as well as civic engagement.

“I am looking forward to the challenge and excitement of developing EPIC into a force that cultivates increased civic engagement among our marginalized communities, develops the next generation of diverse, progressive leaders, and moves the needle on policies that work to close the race and gender wealth gaps in Long Beach,” said the 28-year-old.

Gutierrez holds a master’s degree in social work with an emphasis in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, both from Cal State Long Beach. She is the vice president of the Long Beach Democratic Club and was recently selected as a member of the 2019 class of Leadership Long Beach, a 10-month-long leadership program aimed at building professional connections.

EPIC’s inaugural six-month leadership development program, Emerging Leaders Institute, will begin in November, with applications beginning to be accepted in September.