Q&A with Deb Self, Rose Foundation’s New Executive Director

This summer marks a pivotal moment in the Rose Foundation’s thirty-year journey as we welcome Deb Self as our new Executive Director. With decades of experience leading environmental organizations—including her tenures at San Francisco Baykeeper and Greater Farallones Association—Deb brings both deep roots in community advocacy and a bold vision for the future.

We sat down with Deb to learn what drew her to the Rose Foundation, how she sees grassroots leaders and youth shaping the environmental movement, and what inspires her inside and outside of work. From reflections on water justice to her love of board games, Deb shares what drives her and how she plans to lead Rose into its next chapter.

What drew you to the Rose Foundation and its mission at this moment in your career?

How do you see grassroots leaders and youth shaping the future of environmental justice in California and beyond?
As Executive Director of Greater Farallones Association, where our education programs introduced 14,000 people a year to the marine sanctuary, I got to see the impact of inviting high school kids into the field to contribute to climate science. For many BIPOC kids, it was their first time being on the coast, learning about critters in tidepools, and collecting data. I saw how important this exposure was and worked to make it a joyful, empowering experience of belonging and curiosity. Removing barriers to outdoor spaces and introducing students to BIPOC scientists are just some of ways we can support the next generation of environmental leaders, and I look forward to continuing to build and amplify young leaders.

What message would you like to share with the Rose community of grantees, supporters, and partners as you get started?
You can expect new opportunities to participate more directly in guiding Rose’s future. As we embark on a new chapter of strategic planning and Board development, we’ll be seeking new leaders with new skills and perspectives to join us in an advisory or fiduciary role. We have such a strong foundation and vision to build on, and so much opportunity to deepen and expand our support for communities and the environment in the years to come. Please join us!

What role does communication play in your leadership, and how will you ensure transparency with supporters and stakeholders?
Communication is the lifeblood of a healthy nonprofit. It’s the way we express our needs and support each other. It’s  fundamental to healthy relationships and strong community, both inside and outside of Rose. It’s how we build and execute on a shared vision, and how we are held accountable to those we serve and to each other. It’s how we build collective power to right wrongs and to pursue justice, even when the work will never be done.

What’s one book, podcast, or film that inspires your work in justice or the environment?
The best film ever, You Got To Move, is about Southern organizing for the right to vote, for civil rights and environmental justice over the course of Highlander Center’s then-50-year history. It absolutely underpins my sense of where I come from and what still must be done (and how: trusting communities to lead). You can see it on Criterion Channel and I challenge you to watch it in segments with a small group and discuss it like you would a book. Prepare to be moved.

If you could take the Rose community on a field trip anywhere, where would you go and why?
Communities along the Bay are faced with not only toxic water and air pollution from industrial facilities but are also threatened with rising groundwater and tides. I would take us on a tour of sites where pollution mitigation funds have restored ecosystems and supported community empowerment to build healthy neighborhoods. People’s right to clean water and clean air is part of what has driven me to do this work, and I look forward to continuing to build community-based partnerships at Rose Foundation.

What’s something surprising or fun about you that people might not guess?
I’m very into board games, especially American mahjong and Wingspan. It’s hard for me to turn off my analytical brain after an engaging day of work, so turning my problem-solving focus to a game helps me ramp down and merge into social, personal time. Challenge me anytime!

What brings you joy outside of work?
Old-time music and dance bring the most joy, with actually seeing migrating songbirds running a close second.