SVForum Board of Directors Unveils New Board Leadership Team

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SVForum (www.svforum.org), the leading non-profit organization for technologists and entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley, today announced Deborah Magid, Director of Software Strategy for IBM Venture Capital Group, as the new Chairman of SVForum’s Board of Directors. Board member Debra Brackeen, Managing Director, Head of Incubation in Citi Ventures, has been named Incoming Chairman, transitioning to the role of SVForum Board of Directors Chairman in July of 2013.

“SVForum has become an integral part of the Silicon Valley entrepreneurial community, and I’m thrilled to be a be able to play a larger role in helping to expand its growth and support of emerging companies.”

Ann Winblad, co-founder and a Managing Director of Hummer Winblad Venture Partners and former Chairman and long-time member of SVForum’s Board of Directors, will remain on the Board as Outgoing Chairman. SVForum Board of Directors: http://tinyurl.com/SVForumBoard.

“I am delighted to have been selected as Chairman of the SVForum Board of Directors,” said Magid. “This has been a strong year of innovative programming and growth for SVForum, which continues to increase in size, reach and impact thanks to the dedication and insights of our board, members, sponsor-partners and tremendous management team.”

“Ann Winblad’s vision and leadership have played a fundamental role in shaping the direction of SVForum as one of the world’s great entrepreneurial organizations,” Magid continued. “Fortunately, as outgoing Chairman Ann will continue to help drive SVForum’s mission and purpose. Debbie Brackeen’s strength as both an innovator and leader in the technology world, as well as her long-standing membership on SVForum’s Board will help to expand the role and reputation of the SVForum even further.”

“I consider it a privilege to be named to this SVForum Board leadership position at such an exciting time,” said Brackeen. “SVForum has become an integral part of the Silicon Valley entrepreneurial community, and I’m thrilled to be a be able to play a larger role in helping to expand its growth and support of emerging companies.”

Recent Highlights

Since January of this year, SVForum has realized an annualized growth rate of 20 percent in membership, which stands at a record 2,650 members at the end of June, 2012.
In addition to record attendance at SVForum’s Launch: Silicon Valley 2012, SVForum has experienced a significant increase in overall attendance for events/programs, including newly introduced unconferences and hackathons for emerging entrepreneurs & technologists.
In June at SVForm’s annual Visionary Awards honors were awarded to VC firm Accel Partner Jim Breyer, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, Khan Academy Founder Sal Khan and journalist David Kirpatrick. Selected event video highlights and full programs can now be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/user/svforumvideos

“It had been an honor to help lead SVForum to this point and work with all of the technology innovators, entrepreneurs, financial and sponsor partners that make up the SVForum community,” stated Winblad. “SVForum is one of those rare and important organizations that brings together the entire startup ecosystem to leverage the best of what Silicon Valley has to offer the world.”

About SVForum

Established in 1983, SVForum is a leading Silicon Valley not-for-profit organization. SVForum provides an unbiased source of information and insight to the technology community. SVForum engages the community by creating connections and community, providing education and access to resource and linking the global business community to Silicon Valley. SVForum provides the latest insights on emerging technology trends and best business practices through events, specialized services and resources. SVForum reaches 15,000 technology professionals annually through more than 20 events each month. SVForum partners include global leaders Accenture, Citrix, Deloitte, Genentech, IBM, Microsoft, Nokia and SAP, as well as leading venture capital firms, service providers and the Sobrato Foundation.

For further information, visit the SVForum website at www.svforum.org.

Follow SVForum on: