Brannan Center Welcomes New Board Members
Three new directors have joined the board of Brannan Center, northern Napa Valley’s newest destination for community gatherings, performing arts and private events. Beloved former Calistoga Mayor Chris Canning, St. Helena’s own Braulio Muñoz and Santa Rosa financier Gregory Newhall were appointed this month, rounding out an already robust roster of community visionaries.
“Our founders have shepherded Brannan Center from concept to construction to near completion,” says Board Chair Edward Kozel. “Braulio, Chris and Gregory bring a new set of skills to our board as we move toward our grand opening this Fall, and we could not be more thrilled to have them on board. Over time, we anticipate further additions as we focus now on sustainable operations and service for the UpValley community.”
Canning served as Calistoga mayor from 2012-2022 and as executive director of Calistoga’s Chamber of Commerce for 8 years. He is principal at CJC Solutions, which aims to bridge public-private partnerships at the local government level.
“My strength lies in recognizing challenges and opportunities, offering a steady hand in navigating complex landscapes,” says Canning, who recently returned to Calistoga after several years living abroad. “I take pride in my ability to foster consensus among diverse constituencies, believing that progress is best achieved through collaboration and understanding.”
Muñoz has served in the Vestry at Grace Episcopal church in St. Helena and is a Board Member at the UpValley Family Center. His wife, Melissa Muñoz-Matheny, is a teacher at St. Helena High School. Along with their two sons, Robert, 12, and Rafael, 8, they are active members of the St. Helena community, volunteering with youth sports and area activities.
“The call for public service has always been part of my life,” says Muñoz, a native of Saltillo, Mexico, who has worked as an investigator for the California State Bar for the past 12 years. “My family, spirituality, community service and sports are my passion in life. I also love music, dancing and all art expressions.”
Newhall serves as a Senior Vice President and Market Leader for the Private Bank division of Umpqua Bank, where he is dedicated to supporting individuals, families and business across Wine Country. Prior to joining Umpqua Bank, Greg spent more than 18 years at First Republic Bank in a similar leadership role, where he developed a reputation for providing personalized financial solutions and exceptional service.
“I am committed to making a positive impact in the communities I serve,” he says. “My passion for fostering strong community connections has been a driving force throughout my career.”
Nearly 150 donors have contributed more than $11 million to fund construction and initial operating costs for Brannan Center, with $1.5 million to go. Pending successful completion of its fundraising campaign, Brannan Center is on track to open this fall at 1407 Third Street in Calistoga and will serve the greater UpValley community as a state-of-the-art facility for civic organizations, classes, camps, workshops, performances and private events. For more information, visit BrannanCenter.org/Donate.