Board of Directors
Diana Ruiz
Diana Ruiz first visited Croatia in 2005. A personal interest in the Balkans led her to an intensive study of the affects of war, ethnic cleansing and the prolonged effects of living under communist rule. The daughter of pro-democracy Cuban revolutionaries, Ruiz learned at an early age the importance of creating one’s destiny. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Behavior and more than twenty years of business experience in finance, sales, mediation, and negotiations. She is a long-time youth mentor, volunteer and board member for many non profits. Drawing on her passions and particular strengths in networking, Diana founded Women’s Global Leadership Initiative.
Debbie Wallace
Debbie Wallace is the sole owner of Debbie Wallace Consulting Services, specializing in operations, marketing and business intelligence. She is a strategic, yet hands-on business wizard; seeing the big picture but working with critical attention to detail. Currently Debbie manages ongoing catalog circulation for multi-channel businesses that mail monthly. She also handles various operational, merchandising and marketing projects as well. Having nearly over twelve years of involvement with various startups, all of which are now thriving, Debbie has a keen sense of priorities and an arsenal of ever-evolving creative solutions just waiting to be unleashed on the next challenge.
Kathie Klein
Kathie Klein had a 20-year career in health care office management and administration, mostly at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. In 2007 she retired and moved to Santa Rosa to enjoy life with her daughters and grandchildren. Kathie currently puts her skills to good use volunteering at Cinnabar Theater in Petaluma as well as serving on the Board of WGLI and functioning as the Operations committee. She feels fortunate to be working closely with Diana and this eclectic group of people so committed to promoting women as leaders. It is a privilege to be able to contribute to the amazing growth of WGLI and the many women who will be the future leaders of our community.
Kristen Weiers
Kristen Weiers is a financial advisor in Santa Rosa, and specializes in working with women going through transitions like divorce, retirement and career change. Her practice includes financial planning, risk management, wealth accumulation, and distribution strategies, and she enjoys working with women executives and business owners. In her spare time, Kristen enjoys hiking, running and rock climbing, and is currently pursuing her pilot's license. Since graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, she has traveled extensively throughout Africa and Central America and, with a young daughter of her own, is committed to improving the lives of women and girls throughout the world.