Renée Richard, a California native, has always been interested in the power of mentoring, leading her to dedicate her life to the empowerment and education of women and girls. After completing a Bachelor of Science degree at the USC, Marshall School of Business, Renée helped to spearhead the creation of a women’s mentoring program at Procter & Gamble, her first employer. Soon, the program gained national attention, and P&G realized the effect formal mentoring had on its diverse sales force.

After giving birth to three children, two boys and a girl, Renée wondered how working parents – and especially single mothers – managed it all: work, education, cultural experiences, and providing great role models to their children. Renée accepted the challenge of creating an organization that would support the girl who hasn't seen the possibilities for her life just yet, and doesn't quite understand her power, voice, or leadership capabilities. Renée understood this need because she was that very girl who, if surrounded with an ambitious village of supporters, would have been able to take on amazing challenges and feats. 

Renée has created a safe space for all girls, providing hands-on mentors and high-performing female leaders who encourage girls to step out of their comfort zones, knowing they have the tools and resources to take charge of their lives to become trailblazing leaders. In 2003, Renée realized her vision through the founding of Cinnamongirl, Inc. (CGI).

Renée has received several awards for her work with CGI including: a Jefferson Award on behalf of KGO (Channel 5), All-star Award from AT&T and SF Giants Community, a Benjamin Travis Community Service Award from the Charles Houston Bar Association and recognition from the cities of Oakland and San Francisco. She has expertise in gender-based mentoring, group mentoring and developing relationships with girls. She is considered an expert on girls mentoring programs and has been a guest speaker for both teen and professional engagements. In addition to being CGI’s executive director and founder, Renée serves as a member of the Board of Directors.

As dedicated as she is to her Cinnamongirls, Renée's first priority has always been her children: Julien (26) who works in entertainment, Joshua (25) who works in Commercial Real Estate, and Jayla (23) who recently graduated from USC. In her free time, she enjoys a great spin workout, nature hikes, playing with her dog and spending time with her children.