Why NFABC’s Leadership Matters

Unlike many advocacy organizations, our board is made up of volunteers who live in the communities we serve.
We aren’t funded by developers. We’re neighbors, parents, professionals, and community leaders who bring experience in law, medicine, planning, finance, communications, and public policy. Together, we work protect California neighborhoods through informed advocacy, transparency, and grassroots action.

Meet the Team Behind NFABC

  • Chairwoman Bothwell

    Marcella Bothwell, MD, MBA – Chair

    A retired UCSD Head and Neck Surgeon, Dr. Bothwell now brings her leadership and strategic vision to community advocacy. She currently chairs the Pacific Beach Planning Group and has served as Treasurer and President of the Pacific Beach Town Council (PBTC), Chair of the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Board, and Founder of the San Diego Parks Foundation.

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    Scott Chipman - Treasurer

    Scott is a longtime civic leader in Pacific Beach, having served on both the Planning Group and Town Council. He also serves nationally as Vice Chairman of AALM. At NFABC, he oversees all financial responsibilities as Treasurer.

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    Karl Rand, Esq. – Board Member

    An attorney specializing in taxation law, Karl practices in the areas of ERISA/Employee Benefits and Healthcare law. A long-time community advocate, he is a current board member and past Chair of the Pacific Beach Planning Group, as well as a past Vice President of the PB Town Council.

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    Peter Wulff – Board Member

    Peter is a senior financial executive in the San Diego biotech industry and an active civic leader. He served as a trustee on the La Jolla Town Council and has been engaged in local issues in both La Jolla and Scripps Ranch. He founded the Scripps Fire Relief Fund following the 2003 Cedar Fire.

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    Karen Ventimiglia, CMP – Community Engagement Chair

    Karen is a certified meeting professional, community organizer, and public outreach strategist with extensive experience bringing people together around complex issues. She leads NFABC’s communications strategy and community education efforts, helping residents understand what is happening, why it matters, and how to take effective action.

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    John Terell, AICP – Legislative Chair

    A certified planner and retired Planning Director for the City of Riverside, John brings decades of planning expertise to NFABC. He chairs the organization’s Legislative Committee and is an active member of the Pacific Beach Planning Group.

  • Charlie Nieto – Board Member

    Charlie is a dynamic leader with a record of community engagement. He served as President of the PB Town Council for three years and is currently Vice Chair of the PB Planning Group. He is a former San Diego Youth Commissioner and a strong voice for youth and neighborhood preservation.

  • Brita Lindstrom - Board Member

    Brita tracks state and local housing legislation and helps NFABC understand how proposed laws affect communities like Pacific Beach. She also helps coordinate the grassroots advocacy efforts, including contacting legislators and community outreach to keep residents informed and engaged.

Want to get involved?

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