First 5 San Bernardino bids a heartfelt farewell to Karen Scott

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

Woman in a red suit holding a bouquet, smiling beside a podium with a First 5 San Bernardino sign at an indoor event. — *First 5 San Bernardino Executive Director Karen Scott retires after a 46-year career serving San Bernardino County families.*

After a remarkable 46-year career in public service to San Bernardino County, First 5 San Bernardino bids a heartfelt farewell to Executive Director Karen Scott following the State of First 5 San Bernardino event on March 20.

Scott has served as executive director of First 5 San Bernardino for 18 years, leading the organization’s efforts to promote, support and enhance the health and early development of children from the prenatal stage through age five. Throughout her career, Scott felt a deep calling to work that supports young children and families.

“Helping children thrive from the very start of their lives has been at the heart of my work for many years,” said Scott. “Raising children truly takes a village, and I’m deeply proud that First 5 San Bernardino has been able to support families across our county.”

Scott’s background in public administration and administration of justice led her to a lifelong career with San Bernardino County beginning in 1977. Over the decades, she has dedicated her work to strengthening systems that support children, families and communities.

During her leadership at First 5 San Bernardino, Scott helped advance an outcomes-based approach to measuring the impact of the organization’s investments, demonstrating how programs improve outcomes for children and families. She also guided the organization toward a systems-building model that strengthened collaboration across early childhood programs throughout the county.

“Karen Scott has truly been a mentor to me since she entered the doors of First 5 San Bernardino 18 years ago,” said Interim Executive Director Cindy Faulkner. “I thank her for her dedication, leadership and commitment to the First 5 staff, Commissioners, partners and the families that we serve. Wishing her a retirement filled with family, friends and many adventures.”

First 5 San Bernardino hosted a retirement celebration for Scott following the State of First 5 San Bernardino event on March 20, where she was also honored with an official proclamation recognizing her decades of service. Partners and colleagues from across the region came together to honor her legacy. Through a heartfelt video tribute, representatives from more than 20 organizations shared personal messages recognizing Scott’s unwavering dedication to children and families. Their words reflected not only her leadership, but the deep partnerships she cultivated and the lasting impact she has made across the county.

Additional County Update News – March 26, 2026