Meredith Benton will serve as the acting director for the Ventura County Leadership Academy effective immediately. Benton replaces Susan Lefevre, who departed in August after six years of service.

Benton has more than 10 years of management experience in government, nonprofit organizations and private companies.

The academy is an initiative of United Way of Ventura County that was founded in 1994. The academy serves to develop a diverse group of leaders whose actions enhance the quality of life throughout Ventura County.

The curriculum exposes participants to critical issues in the region. Participants also organize a community service project and travel to Sacramento to meet with senior government officials.

In September the academy started its 17th cohort of almost 30 leaders.

Benton also serves on the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Alliance Board, Kids & Families Together Board, Casa Pacifica Program Committee and VCEDA Policy Committee, and is a member of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce.

She has a bachelor’s degree in international studies from Pepperdine University and a Master of Public Administration from the Monterey Institute of International Studies.

She lives in Oak Park with her husband, Jim, a teacher at Oak Park High School.