Joyce Lara Rooney appointed Foothill Transit's director of finance

Joyce Lara Rooney has been appointed Foothill Transit's director of finance, serving the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys of Los Angeles County, Calif. Rooney will succeed Michelle Lopes Caldwell, who is set to retire in March after building a successful career with Foothill Transit and the transit industry at large.

Rooney brings a wealth of expertise in transit operations, fiscal management, project coordination and government relations. Rooney has a background in managing transportation programs, overseeing budgets and collaborating with various stakeholders. Rooney’s professional career includes notable roles in public transit agencies.

Most recently, Rooney served as the transit operations and transportation facilities manager for the city of Redondo Beach, Calif., where she was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the city's transportation programs. She recently oversaw the successful implementation of their new transit center facility. Prior to her role in Redondo Beach, Rooney served as the transportation and transit operations supervisor for the city of West Hollywood, Calif.

Rooney's government relations experience is extensive, having represented both the city of Redondo Beach and the city of West Hollywood in numerous transit-related committees, including Metro, Access Services and the Southern California Association of Governments. She has been an active leader in the Los Angeles County transportation committees.

“Joyce’s wealth of knowledge and proven track record will greatly benefit Foothill Transit,” said Doran Barnes, CEO of Foothill Transit. “We have a long road ahead of us as we work to provide efficient and sustainable public transit services to our communities.”

Rooney will assume her full duties on March 31.