Cathia Lan, she/her
Program Associate, James Irvine Foundation , SF State International Relations ’17 | Willie L. Brown, Jr. Fellowship Alumna,
“Ask questions. Be curious. Learn from people’s experiences and perspectives. That’s how you grow.”
Professional Development
Cathia first gained exposure to the philanthropic sector while working in public service. “As I look back to my time as a Willie Brown Fellow, I realize how much it exposed me to opportunities within local government,” she says.
Through her participation in SFSU Guardian Scholars, Cathia found the Willie Brown Fellowship. During her fellowship, she was placed at the Human Services Agency in the City and County of San Francisco, where she collaborated closely with the CalWORKs department—a public benefits program supporting low-income families and individuals through cash assistance, affordable healthcare (Medi-Cal), and CalFresh (formerly known as food stamps). Through direct engagement with clients, she began to see the system from the inside. “I was interacting with clients and asking myself, how can we make this process more efficient and accessible? There’s so much red tape around public benefits, and I was constantly thinking about ways to lessen that burden.”
What began as a fellowship soon evolved into a part-time research role and later a full-time position as a Senior Clerk, where she determined eligibility for San Francisco residents applying for public benefit programs. The progression allowed her to deepen both her technical and interpersonal skills. “It gave me the opportunity to conduct myself as a professional while receiving continuous guidance, mentorship, and development along the way. Strong tactical skills, coupled with strong interpersonal skills, are essential to succeeding in any role. My time as a Willie Brown Fellow was critical in shaping how I approach work to this day.”
After three years in city and county government, Cathia transitioned into philanthropy, supporting external affairs and fundraising efforts at Tipping Point Community. She now serves as a Program Associate at The James Irvine Foundation, advancing regional and statewide grantmaking efforts across California. In 2025 alone, Irvine invested $160 million in grants throughout the Golden State.
Importance of Networking
Beyond professional skills, the fellowship also fostered meaningful relationships. “The fellowship connected me to other fellows—many of whom I remain close with,” Cathia shares. “One of them is Alexis Logan, whom I consider a very close friend. As our careers took off around the same time, that friendship became an invaluable source of support—helping me navigate the ups and downs of professional life, and life more broadly.”
In addition to peer relationships, Cathia cultivated lasting mentorships. “I gained a mentor who held a leadership role and oversaw the CalWORKs and Welfare-to-Work departments. I’ve also stayed connected with former colleagues and managers. Those relationships have provided both professional guidance and meaningful insight into what it truly means to be a public servant and be of service to the community.”
Impact on Career and Future Plans
Reflecting on her experience, Cathia credits the fellowship with broadening her understanding of how government systems function. “My time as a fellow gave me exposure to how government and city inter-agencies operate at the local level. It helped me see the importance of public-private partnerships with nonprofits and philanthropic organizations.”
She also came away with a deeper appreciation for community building. “One of the most important lessons I learned is that community looks different for everyone, but finding mutual understanding is what moves the work forward. If there’s a misunderstanding, that’s not inherently negative—it’s an opportunity to explore, reframe, and de-escalate.”
Today, she carries those lessons into her philanthropic work. “The way you show up in the world reflects how you build community. That shows up in how I relate to my team and to grantees, how I communicate, and how I stay rooted in the work.”
Advice for Prospective Students
Cathia encourages prospective fellows to approach the opportunity with intention and openness. “Take advantage of everything the Fellowship offers. Don’t think of it as just another internship — think more broadly. This fellowship can be the launching pad to your dream job.’’
She adds, “Ask questions. Be curious. Learn from people’s experiences and perspectives. That’s how you grow.”
Reflecting on her own journey, she shares, “I was able to tap into my leadership skills by leveraging my unique upbringing and identity as a value-add in the workplace. I committed to mastering my role inside and out, built a strong support system, and cultivated meaningful connections along the way. The Fellowship truly propelled my career forward. Think outside the box—the opportunities are endless, and they are waiting for you.”
