Communities In Schools Appoints M. Angel Flores as Vice President of Advancement
In a significant move aimed at enhancing student support across the nation, Communities In Schools® (CIS®) has appointed M. Angel Flores, CSPG, as its new Vice President of Advancement. This leadership change comes at a critical time as CIS approaches 50 years of service in the realm of public education, seeking to expand its impact and resources for millions of students, particularly those in Title I schools.
Drawing on over two decades of rich experience in the philanthropic sector, Flores is set to spearhead the organization's fundraising strategies. Her extensive background includes successful campaigns that have raised funds ranging from $20 million to an impressive $4 billion. This track record positions her as a strategic leader equipped to enhance CIS' capabilities in supporting educational institutions across the country.
Florence will be tasked with overseeing the Office of Advancement, collaborating closely with CIS executive leadership to create a comprehensive fundraising strategy that not only strengthens national initiatives but also bolsters local impacts. She aims to strengthen philanthropic partnerships that will be crucial for advancing CIS’ mission during this pivotal moment in the organization’s history.
CIS National President and CEO Rey Saldaña expressed confidence in Flores’ abilities, stating, "Angel brings both the strategic expertise and personal passion that are essential to our future growth. Her ability to build meaningful partnerships and lead transformative campaigns will help propel our mission forward at a critical time for students, schools, and our organization." This endorsement underscores the high expectations placed on Flores as she embarks on this pivotal role.
M. Angel Flores’ dedication to public education also resonates deeply with the mission of CIS. As a graduate of public schools herself, a parent of three public school students, and an elected board member of her local school district, Flores has been a longstanding champion of equitable education opportunities. She remarked, "The most important commitment we can make to our children and to all future generations is to provide the best publicly funded education. I am honored to join Rey Saldaña and Communities In Schools' incredible leadership team in furthering the movement started by Bill Milliken nearly 50 years ago to fundamentally change and improve public education across the U.S."
Flores’ passion for community engagement and education innovation is matched by her experience in leadership roles at organizations like CCS Fundraising and the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation. She is also currently the treasurer of the Association of Fundraising Professionals NYC Executive Committee and on the Board of the Philanthropic Planning Group of Greater New York, which showcases her commitment to the philanthropic community and strategic planning.
Originally from West Texas, Flores graduated magna cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, holding a degree in English literature and dance. Her academic and professional journey illustrates a strong connection to both the arts and education, which she leverages as she works to facilitate better educational outcomes for students nationwide.
Communities In Schools® has built a solid reputation for helping students navigate challenges on their paths to success. For nearly five decades, CIS has empowered millions of students, providing them with the supports they need to thrive, both in the classroom and beyond. With the new appointment of M. Angel Flores, the organization is not only reinforcing its fundraising capabilities but also ensuring it continues to adapt and address the ever-evolving challenges faced by students today. The path ahead looks promising as CIS embarks on this next chapter of transformative educational support.