Oak Park resident picked for new post

Oak Park resident Dale Naylor Cowgill was named the new director of development of the Los Angeles World Affairs Council.

Cowgill has been a familiar face in the Conejo Valley for several years, serving as director of development for the Hogan Family Foundation. She has worked with many charities in the area for fundraising events held at the Gardens of the World and was responsible for the popular Summer Jazz Concert Series.

Cowgill assumed her responsibilities with the council in late July, in time to work on preparations for the Aug. 1 appearance of Great Britain's Prime Minister Tony Blair, who spoke before the membership in Los Angeles. More than 2,000 people were in attendance.

"This is the most amazing opportunity," said Cowgill. "To be able to work in an environment that provides an open forum for world leaders to express their views and educate the people of Southern California is extremely gratifying, particularly at a time when world affairs are at the forefront of everyone's mind."

Cowgill's primary responsibility will be to interest new members in joining the organization and ensure that existing members' needs are met.

"The commute to downtown L.A. is no fun," she said, "however, I have always found that the best things in life are usually worth going the extra mile."

The L.A. World Affairs Council brings influential figures in world affairs to Los Angeles for speaking opportunities and roundtable discussions with members. It connects local professionals who are interested in world affairs, and promotes students' interest in international affairs.

The 53-year-old organization is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization supported entirely by memberships and contributions.