Michael Ocon (Photo – eatonfirecollaborative)
The Eaton Fire Collaborative has announced the selection of Michael Ocon as its first Executive Director, marking a significant step in the organization’s ongoing efforts to guide long-term recovery for communities affected by the Eaton Fire.
By News Desk
The Collaborative serves as the region’s Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG), coordinating efforts among nonprofit organizations, public agencies, funders, and community leaders to support rebuilding across Altadena, Pasadena, and Sierra Madre. Its mission centers on ensuring recovery efforts are equitable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of fire survivors.
Ocon brings deep familiarity with the organization’s work. He has been involved since its earliest convenings following the fire, first elected to the governing board by members and later serving as Board Secretary. In those roles, he helped establish the Collaborative’s governance structure, partnerships, and coordination systems.
Board members credit Ocon with playing a central role in organizing the recovery effort, often describing him as “the glue” holding the Collaborative together. His leadership and ability to connect partners have earned widespread trust among participating organizations and community leaders.
The Executive Director position was filled following a competitive process led by a board-appointed hiring committee. The Collaborative received 37 applications from nonprofit executives, civic leaders, and community members. After multiple rounds of interviews and finalist presentations, the full board selected Ocon for the role.
“On behalf of the Eaton Fire Collaborative LTRG Board of Directors, we are delighted to have Michael as our ED,” said Board Chair Antonio Manning. “We are equally as thrilled knowing that Michael will bring the same energy, passion, and commitment to his new role that he demonstrated while serving as our board secretary.”
A Pasadena native, Ocon is a graduate of Pasadena public schools and a proud alumnus of Pasadena High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Stanford University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California.
In addition to his work with the Collaborative, Ocon serves as a trustee on the Monrovia Unified School District Board of Education and sits on the board of College Access Plan, a nonprofit that provides college and career advising to low-income students. He previously worked as Manager of Community Partnerships and Communications at Collaborate Pasadena, where he led cross-sector initiatives connecting schools, government, and nonprofit organizations.
As Executive Director, Ocon will lead a broad coalition focused on rebuilding efforts and supporting impacted families. His priorities include amplifying survivor voices, connecting residents with trusted resources, and strengthening partnerships to ensure a coordinated recovery process.
The Eaton Fire Collaborative emphasized that its work remains rooted in community input and collaboration, with a governing board composed of both fire survivors and leaders across sectors such as housing, philanthropy, and local government.
With Ocon at the helm, the organization aims to maintain momentum as it enters the next phase of recovery, one focused on long-term rebuilding and ensuring that all affected residents have a clear path forward.
As a long time resident over 65 years, our family has lived in Altadena. We all look forward to meeting him and supporting his work 🌟