Celia Vandegraaf

Executive Director
, United States

Professional Overview

Celia Vandegraaf is an accomplished non-profit leader with extensive experience in the human rights and social services sectors. As the Executive Director of the Center for Survivors of Torture, she leverages her deep expertise in trauma-informed care and program management to drive meaningful impact for vulnerable populations.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Celia has served as the Executive Director of the Center for Survivors of Torture since 2005. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing all organizational operations, including strategic planning, financial management, and the coordination of a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, social workers, and legal experts. Under her leadership, the Center has expanded its service offerings and reached a record number of clients, providing comprehensive support and resources to those who have experienced torture and human rights abuses.

Career Progression

Prior to her current role, Celia held several positions within the non-profit sector, including serving as a Program Manager at a leading human rights organization and as a Social Worker at a community-based mental health clinic. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals and communities, and has been recognized for her innovative approaches to program development and service delivery.

Academic Background

Celia holds a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles, where she specialized in trauma-informed practice and community-based interventions. She has also completed additional training in human rights law, crisis counseling, and nonprofit management.

Areas of Expertise

• Trauma-informed care and mental health support for survivors of torture and human rights abuses

• Program development and implementation in the non-profit sector

• Strategic planning and organizational leadership

• Financial management and resource allocation for mission-driven organizations

• Advocacy and policy work related to human rights and social justice

Professional Impact

Under Celia's leadership, the Center for Survivors of Torture has expanded its reach and impact, providing essential services to over 2,500 clients annually. She has spearheaded the development of innovative, evidence-based programs that address the unique needs of survivors, and has advocated tirelessly for increased funding and resources to support this vulnerable population. Additionally, Celia has served on several advisory boards and task forces focused on improving the landscape of human rights and social services in the United States.

Conclusion

Celia Vandegraaf is a seasoned non-profit leader with a proven track record of driving positive change and advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals. Through her unwavering commitment to trauma-informed care and her strategic approach to program development and organizational management, she continues to make a lasting impact in the lives of survivors of torture and human rights abuses.