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Writer's pictureOC Forum
Mar 2, 20183 min read

Voyage LA interviews Owen Holmes, OC Forum President


Voyage LA interviews Owen Holmes, OC Forum President


Today we’d like to introduce you to Owen Holmes (President, OC Forum).


So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. I am fortunate to be affiliated with the OC Forum. I became involved with the organization almost

from its beginning. First, as an attendee, then as board member and now, in my second term, as President. The organization, from its inception, has been centrally focused on increasing our collective knowledge and engagement around key current issues – civic engagement and dialogue. Those are important elements in a democratic society. In my previous role as the senior administrator responsible for government and community relations at Cal State Fullerton, I attended many Orange County Forum programs. My supervisor at Fullerton served as President of the Forum and encouraged me to become more involved. In 2007, upon her retirement, I was honored to become the campus’ representative to the board and have served in that capacity ever since. For more than 25 years, the Orange County Forum has been at the forefront of engagement on critical issues in Orange County. That’s right up my alley given my educational/academic training is in American History and Political Science. Our tagline is “Keeping You Informed Since 1990.”


Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

The OC Forum was established more than a quarter century ago. It has attracted and maintained very accomplished and committed board members whose personal/professional values dovetail well with the Forum’s – as I stated before, engagement and dialogue. Through our past and present board members and their connections, the Orange County Forum has been able to

showcase topics of import to our larger community. Over time, as any non-profit experiences, there are needs to refresh and

update periodically. After much discussion by the board’s leadership over several years, in 2017, the Orange County Forum engaged the services of Communications Lab through a competitive process to help us refresh and strengthen our strong brand and reputation. Through their expertise, they have helped us refresh our visual identity and improve our financial footing. The future looks very bright for our next 25 years and beyond.


Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about OC Forum (Orange County Forum) – what should we know? For more than 25 years, the OC Forum has been at the forefront of engagement on critical issues in Orange County. That’s right up my alley given my educational/academic training is in American History and Political Science. Our tagline is “Keeping You Informed Since 1990.” A

hallmark of the Orange County Forum’s annual programming is bringing a broad spectrum of community, business and political leaders together to network and hear engaging speakers and panels discuss key current issues in a non-partisan, balanced environment. It’s not a “talk-over-one-

another-free-for-all” that most of us experience today. We’re also known for our standing programs on community indicators, housing outlooks and showcasing the Angels Baseball organization, always a sell-out program.


Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?

I have always believed in keeping your eyes wide open through your life and professional journey to examine all options and

opportunities that come toward you. Then you decide if you want to pursue them or not. Being in the right place at the right time, certainly helps. But success in life, business or any other pursuit is predicated on how you embrace the possibilities.

Pricing:

  • GOLD Sponsorship – $5,000

  • SILVER Sponsorship – $2,500

  • SUSTAINING Sponsorship – $1,000

  • Contributing Member – $250

  • Individual Membership – $85

  • Student Membership – $35

  • Luncheon Reservation: $85 as Member; $100 as Non-Member

Contact Info:




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