WestCal Academy
®
Thriving Careers Through Apprenticeships™
Board of Trustees
Craig Smith, Ph.D.
Chair
WestCal Academy®
Dr. Smith has served as a consultant to CBS News and as a full-time speechwriter for President Gerald Ford, Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca and as a consultant to President George H.W. Bush. He is the founder and president of the Freedom of Expression Foundation. Dr. Smith continues to teach communications, and has served on the California Commission for Teacher Credentialing, Statewide Academic Senate, and is a former CSU Trustee.
Dianne Philibosian, Ph.D.
Boardmember
WestCal Academy®
Dr. Philibosian is the former Director of the Institute for Community Health and Wellbeing at California State University, Northridge, and a veteran of 40 years in the field of higher education. She is a member of the Board of Regents at the University of the Pacific, and formerly served as Chair of the Board of Regents. Dr. Philibosian serves on the national board of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. She is a nationally known expert in the care and education of children.
Patrick J. FureyBoardmember
Boardmember
WestCal Academy®
Mr. Furey brings his experience as the former Mayor of Torrance and former County of Los Angeles Principal Deputy County Counsel of the Children’s Services Division. He is the current President of the Torrance Education Foundation and has been an industry mentor for WestCal Academy® students since 2015.