OUR BOARD
BEGINNINGS
The Fresno Police Chief’s Foundation was created in 2002 by a group of community-minded citizens. The initial Board of Directors was created with both civilian and department personnel who worked with then-Chief Jerry Dyer to identify needs within the Fresno Police Department that were not met with the funding available to them. During the first several years, the Foundation received its 501(c)(3) designation and began raising monies to supply equipment and training to improve the Fresno PD’s capabilities to serve the Fresno community. The Foundation and Board also evolved during this time. Today it is made up of citizens with a desire to continue the Foundation’s mission and increase its capabilities.
Mark attended Bullard High School and obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from CSU Fresno in 1984. He spent 36 years with the California Department of Transportation in Fresno. Mark attends St. Paul Armenian Church, is a member of the Knights of Vartan Fraternal organization, and is a member of the Advisory Board to the School of Civil Engineering at CSU Fresno. Mark currently serves as President of the Board for the Fresno Police Chief’s Foundation.
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Karl Bitter was born and raised in Fresno and is a second-generation American. He is a United States Navy veteran who attained the rank of Lieutenant Commander in Naval Air. In civilian life, Karl worked for Claude Laval Corporation, FMC Technologies, John Bean Technologies, thyssenkrupp Materials NA, and Certified Meat Products. He is an active community member who has attended and volunteered at Northwest Church, New Harvest Church, and The Well Community Church.
A native of Fresno, Gayle attended Roosevelt High School and has a bachelor’s degree from CSU Fresno. Gayle has been in the commercial printing industry for over 30 years. She started her career as a graphic artist, transitioned into sales, and now works for Dumont Printing. Gayle previously served on the Clovis Women’s Rec League Board and the Junior League of Fresno Community Advisory Board. She currently serves on the Valley Public Radio Community Advisory Board. Gayle has served on the Fresno Police Chief’s Foundation board since 2004 and is currently its secretary.
Debbie was born in Fresno and has been involved in the construction industry for much of her life. She stepped into the role of President/CFO when her father, who founded Alert-O-Lite, passed, and utilized his mentorship to fuel her passion in order to take their business to new levels. Debbie has built upon the foundation that her father started to take care of our customers and ensure the service they need to be successful, efficient, and profitable. Married to her husband Dale for over 24 years, she is the proud mother of 3 and proud “Gamma” of 6.
Organizational Structure
The Fresno Police Chief’s Foundation (FPCF) is an independent, tax-exempt Foundation 501(c)(3) composed of members of the greater Fresno metropolitan area. The Fresno Police Chief’s Foundation Board (FPCFB) serves as its decision-making body. Officers of the Board include the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Fresno Police Chief and members of the department selected by the Chief serve as advisors and departmental liaisons to the Foundation.