A new role shaping housing policy; other career moves

Dante Golden recently started a new job as senior director of policy for San Diego Housing Federation.

Golden was previously a senior legislative aide for Sen. John S. Laird and worked in the California State Legislature as a staffer for different state senators, helping to shape public policy on a variety of issues affecting Californians.

Golden said in his new role with the housing federation he will develop the organization’s vision in the areas of public policy, legislative and regulatory advocacy and relationship building with statewide coalition members.

“I have worked in and around policy making in Sacramento for some years now (and) I’m looking forward to translating that knowledge into the advocacy world to advance legislation that makes it faster, cheaper, and easier to build affordable homes in the region,” he said.

Most exciting thing about his new role: “I’m excited to join an organization that (comprises) some of the most talented, hardworking advocates who are dedicated to ensuring all San Diegans, regardless of income, have a chance at a safe, stable and affordable place to call home.”

One thing he has earned about himself in the past year: “I’ve learned that my passion for public policy can take on more than one dimension and can open doors that lead me to moving across the state to explore a brand-new city like San Diego. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, I also realized that life is too unpredictable and that I actually gain a lot by accepting bold, new opportunities when they come my way.”

One piece of career advice or encouragement for others: “Your career path is not on a linear trajectory. It’s great to have a north star of what you want to accomplish by the end of your professional life but be open to getting out of your comfort zone – to challenge yourself.”

Other career moves

Tamlyn Munson has started a new position as director of Finance and Operations at San Diego Pride.

Adam Rusiewicz is the new director of data and recovery for the San Diego Gulls.

Kevin Haynes is the new head equipment manager for football at San Diego State University.

Tyler Leslie is starting a new position as area manager at Urban Youth Collaborative in San Diego.

Brett Bartlett is a new project planner at San Diego Gas & Electric.

Catalina Petersen has joined Rady Children’s Hospital-san Diego as a clinical nurse.

Bill Van Le is starting a new position as training and community education manager at The San Diego LGBT Community Center.

Dante Golden