The Carlsbad Educational Foundation named Michelle J. Ginn as its new CEO on Feb. 17 following a unanimous board vote, the organization announced.

Ginn brings a mix of business experience and community involvement to the position, according to the foundation’s statement.

She was most recently director of business development for Carlsbad-based InterKnowlogy, the foundation said. Ginn’s business experience also includes serving as managing partner of Half Moon Development and 15 years with the Fountain Division of Coca-Cola North America.

Ginn and her husband, Matt, live in Carlsbad with their three children, who all attend Carlsbad Unified School District schools.

A 20-year resident, Ginn has been active in the school district, from serving as president of the Carlsbad High School Varsity Dance Team Boosters to PTA involvement. She has also served as a member of the district’s Superintendent Advisory Council, Legislative Team and Tech Advisory Council, the foundation said. Ginn also is a member of the Carlsbad Charitable Foundation.

“CEF is eager to start its next big chapter with Michelle at the helm,” Pat Hurley, chairwoman of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation board of directors, said in the organization’s announcement. “Along with her obvious business acumen, Michelle’s extensive ties and deep commitment to the Carlsbad community as an involved parent and educational advocate will serve CEF well as we implement a new three-year strategic plan to increase our support of the more than 11,000 students in the Carlsbad Unified School District.”

Ginn has been a member of the foundation’s board of directors for the past three years, serving most recently as vice chair of its executive committee. Gin succeeds Valin Brown, who left the foundation at the end of November after seven years.

“I am proud and excited to lead the Carlsbad Educational Foundation at such a critical time in its history,” Ginn said in the announcement. “The organization has made great strides in supporting district-wide music, hands-on science and educational innovation. As a board member and dedicated education advocate, I plan to explore further opportunities to make a major impact on all the students in the Carlsbad Unified School District. I look forward to creating strong alliances and partnerships with parents, businesses, the community and the school district to drive positive changes for enriching the lives of Carlsbad students.”

The nonprofit foundation works to raise private support for public education within the Carlsbad Unified School District.

For more information, go online to www.carlsbaded.org.