Assistant Director, Events Management
- MEd, Curriculum and Instruction, University of San Diego
- BS, Television, Film, and New Media and a Minor in Business Administration, San Diego State University
Brenda Chand is the Assistant Director of Events Management for the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies at the University of San Diego, where she leads the planning and execution of the School's signature events, academic convenings, donor and VIP engagements, and public programs. Working closely with faculty, staff, and community partners, she develops mission-driven events that foster meaningful engagement and advance the Kroc School's commitment to peace, justice, and social change.
Brenda is a strategic event leader specializing in nonprofit management, sponsorship development, fundraising, marketing, and community engagement. Prior to joining USD, she served as Executive Director and Artist Director of the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival Foundation, where she led strategic planning, fundraising, sponsorships, marketing, operations, and stakeholder partnerships for one of Southern California's premier nonprofit arts festivals. She also supported sponsorship and partnership development for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, helping secure tens of thousands of dollars in cash sponsorships and in-kind contributions for community events and programs. Throughout her career, she has successfully led large-scale public events, cultivated lasting relationships with corporate sponsors, community leaders, nonprofits, and public agencies, and developed engagement strategies that strengthen organizations and expand community impact.
Brenda earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of San Diego, graduating with a 4.0 GPA and earning recognition as Student of the Year. Her master's thesis on trauma-informed teaching practices passed with honors. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Television, Film, and New Media Studies with a minor in Business Administration from San Diego State University, graduating magna cum laude. Drawing on her background in education, Brenda believes thoughtfully designed events create opportunities for dialogue, strengthen communities, and inspire learning across diverse perspectives.