Hester Wagner
Sacramento,CA
Summary
Decisive and mission-focused executive leader with 18 years of proven success in enhancing programs and services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Expertise in driving organizational performance through strategic vision, disciplined execution, and a steadfast commitment to person-centered, inclusive practices. Extensive leadership experience includes complex nonprofit operations, multi-site program oversight, high-level staff management, and sustainable growth initiatives. Recognized for building strong teams, optimizing systems, securing resources, and forging impactful partnerships that elevate organizational effectiveness and community engagement. Seeking an executive leadership role to leverage this expertise in advancing organizational excellence and delivering measurable, lasting results.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Director Of Media Services
Futures Explored, Inc.
01.2013 - Current
- Instructor->Coordinator->Director->Senior Director
- Oversee nonprofit programs serving individuals with developmental disabilities, with responsibility for overall program development, fiscal management, and staff supervision (30+ employees)
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategic initiatives, enhancing organizational effectiveness.
- Directed program development and evaluation processes, aligning services with community needs and organizational goals.
- Mentored senior management staff, fostering leadership skills and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
- Drive strategic planning and execution for program growth, participant success, and sustainability.
- Established partnerships with local organizations to expand service offerings and improve community engagement.
- Analyzed program outcomes, utilizing data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making and resource allocation.
- Spearheaded budget planning efforts, ensuring financial sustainability while maximizing service delivery capabilities.
- Oversaw compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring all programs met industry standards and best practices.
- Lead fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor relations, and event planning, securing critical funding for program operations.
- Active participant in organizational committees including DEI, fundraising, technology, strategic planning, and marketing.
- Extensive experience in person-centered planning and tailoring services to meet the diverse needs of participants.
- Member of California Disability Services Organization, Capital Coalition and Capital Caucus
- CARF Accredited Organization
Founder
Futures Films
01.2016 - Current
- Established strategic vision and operational frameworks to drive business growth and innovation.
- Managed budgets and allocated resources effectively, ensuring projects were completed on time and within budget constraints.
- Led production teams to deliver high-quality film projects on time and within budget with multiple concurrent projects.
- Developed strategic partnerships with vendors to optimize resource allocation and project outcomes.
- Foster inclusive environments where individuals with disabilities contribute to all stages of film production, from pre-production to final edits.
- Coordinated logistics, schedules, and talent management for smooth production flow and optimal results.
Program Coordinator
Inclusion Films
01.2008 - 01.2012
- Developed and implemented vocational and social skills training for adults with developmental disabilities, helping participants transition to independent living and gain employment.
- Created curriculum and coordinated programs to teach filmmaking skills, providing both creative and vocational opportunities.
- Led initiatives to improve participant engagement through innovative outreach strategies and community partnerships.
- Provided job coaching for individuals in paid positions, ensuring successful work experiences and career development.
- Led summer film camps, teaching filmmaking and social skills to youth with developmental disabilities.
Direct Support Professional
On the Move Community Integration
02.2010 - 02.2011
- Supported individuals with disabilities in daily living activities and community integration.
- Developed personalized care plans to enhance client engagement and independence.
- Implemented behavior management strategies to promote positive interactions.
- Monitored progress of clients' goals, adjusting plans as necessary for effectiveness.
- Facilitated group activities that fostered social skills and community involvement.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices in disability support services.
Education
Master of Arts - Educational Theatre for Colleges & Communities
New York University
New York, NY01.2006
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre Arts
The University of the South
Sewanee, TN01.2003
Skills
- Collaborative leadership
- Culture transformation
- Team management
- Policy development
- Organizational development
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Process improvement
- Budget management
- Staff development
- Crisis management
- Creativity and innovation
Certification
- Graduate, National Leadership Consortium on Developmental Disabilities Leadership Institute | 2021
- NYU Filmmaking Essentials
- Sexual Harassment Prevention
- Workplace Violence Prevention
- First Aid/CPR Certified
Timeline
Founder
Futures Films
01.2016 - Current
Senior Director Of Media Services
Futures Explored, Inc.
01.2013 - Current
Direct Support Professional
On the Move Community Integration
02.2010 - 02.2011
Program Coordinator
Inclusion Films
01.2008 - 01.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre Arts
The University of the South
Master of Arts - Educational Theatre for Colleges & Communities
New York University