Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Noelia Corzo, District 2
Subject: Appointment to the Arts Commission
RECOMMENDATION:
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Recommendation for the appointment of John Estalilla to the San Mateo County Arts Commission, representing District 2, for an initial partial term ending December 31, 2026.
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BACKGROUND:
The Arts Commission was created to promote and encourage the arts, to serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors, to prepare and update the County’s strategic and cultural plan, and act as a liaison with arts organizations in order to ensure collaboration and coordination related to culture and art activities in San Mateo County.
DISCUSSION:
John Estalilla is being recommended to represent District 2 on the Arts Commission for an initial partial term ending December 31, 2026, coinciding with District 2 Supervisor’s term in office. The seat was formerly held by Deepa Nair who resigned in August 2025.
John Estalilla is an entrepreneur, investor, and civic leader with experience spanning corporate leadership, early-stage innovation, and public service. A lifelong Bay Area resident born in San Francisco and raised in San Mateo County, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from San Francisco State University and attended Stanford Graduate School of Business. Professionally, he has held senior roles at Hearst, Amazon, and Federated Media, advancing digital storytelling and brand innovation. He currently serves in Amazon’s Learning and Development organization, focusing on human-centered design and learning innovation, and is the founder and partner of Sfventures, where he collaborates with purpose-driven organizations to bring creative ideas to life.
Mr. Estalilla currently serves on the City of Foster City’s Citizens Sustainability Advisory Committee, was a sworn appointee for the U.S. Department of Commerce during the 2020 Census, and served as Social Media Coordinator for the Parks and Recreation Foundation of San Carlos, highlighting community programs and public art installations. He has also served as President and Board Member of the Norfolk Plaza Homeowners Association. Locally, he is active in education and youth development as a coach and PTA member in District 2. Mr. Estalilla brings a collaborative, equity-centered approach and a strong belief in the arts as a vital contributor to vibrant, inclusive communities, aligning with the mission of the San Mateo County Arts Commission.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.