Spotlight Santa Barbara

Inspired by the University of Chicago Statement of Principles, Spotlight Santa Barbara's mission is to provide a forum that fosters hard thought, independent judgment, and the questioning of stubborn assumptions. The organization runs a speaker series intended to strengthen the Santa Barbara community by provoking thought, inspiring change, and encouraging civil dialogue rather than division. It was founded by Jeff Giordano, a marketing/communications executive and former attorney, and Brian Goebel, an Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine University and elected director of the Montecito Water District, both long-time Santa Barbara-area residents active in local civic and nonprofit work.