Sonia Quinonez Selected To Lead SCAN

(Monday) March 22, 2010

Nonprofit Veteran Successfully Directed SCAN’s Development Efforts

SCAN's new executive director, Sonia Quinonez. (Courtesy Photo)

The SCAN board of directors has announced the promotion of longtime Director of Development Sonia Quiñónez to the position of executive director.  The current executive director, Diane Charles, announced her decision to leave in January. Quiñónez has been the director of development for SCAN since 2004, and in that time has vastly improved the fundraising efforts of the Alexandria-based nonprofit, which is dedicated to the well-being of children and the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Northern Virginia .  Last year, SCAN celebrated its 20th anniversary and is a guiding force in the region’s efforts to protect children and support families through education, advocacy and support.

“Sonia has played an incredibly important role in our successful growth over the past six years,” said Kim Fiske , SCAN board president.  “She intimately understands the organization and the people we serve, is very well respected in the community and will provide the dedication and enthusiasm to lead us forward.”

Since joining SCAN six years ago as director of development, Quiñónez more than tripled the funds raised at SCAN’s Toast to Hope annual fall fundraiser and developed SCAN’s Circle of Hope major gifts society.  Her successful management of the organization’s proposals, grant applications, and reports for foundations, corporate giving programs, and government contracts has been a major force behind SCAN’s ability to foster smart growth and weather the current economic challenges facing nonprofits in the region.

“Ensuring that every child in our community has a safe, nurturing home to grow up in is critical,” says Quiñónez.  “With this goal in mind, SCAN’s dedicated staff and more than 200 volunteers each year strive to strengthen families and protect children in this region.  I look forward to this new role and the opportunity to continue to strengthen SCAN’s child abuse prevention programs as they build hope for children and families in Northern Virginia .”

Prior to joining SCAN, Quiñónez was the director of development for the Hispanic Committee of Virginia.  Before moving to Virginia, she was the director of Fund Development and Public Relations with the Latino Community Development Agency in Oklahoma City .  Quiñónez is well known in the region’s nonprofit community.  She is active in Leadership Alexandria, Leadership Arlington, the Alexandria/Arlington Smart Beginnings School Readiness Council, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Quiñónez will transition into the role of executive director this spring.  Diane Charles, who is leaving the position in June after 11 years of outstanding leadership, will work with Quinonez and the board to ensure a smooth transition.