(Pasco, WA) – Broetje Family Trust, an association of three foundations birthed out of a founding vision of Broetje Orchards to “go and bear fruit, fruit that will last” (John 15:16), announces the selection of Omar Escalera as its inaugural Executive Director.
Dr. Escalera brings over two decades of experience in public education and community-centered leadership in the Tri-Cities region of Washington. A bilingual educator, principal, and executive director of equity, partnerships, and family engagement for the Pasco School District, he has centered communities and service throughout his career. His journey began in the orchards of Vista Hermosa, where he came to know the Broetje family and started on a path of faith-driven service. Dr. Escalera joined the Board of Directors for the Trust in 2024 and brings a profound understanding of and commitment to its mission and spiritual values.
“Omar is a community-centered leader whose expertise and lived experiences reflect the Trust’s values and mission of faith in action. He first joined our community as a youth and his dedication to service and advocacy for those most in need has impacted many lives over the years. We are so honored to have the first Executive Director of our family trust be someone so rooted in this work. We look forward to working with Omar to build on our existing initiatives and forge new paths moving forward.”
Dr. Escalera holds a BA and M.Ed in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership respectively from Heritage University and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington. He brings a passion for cultivating community and belonging and a leadership style grounded in humility, active listening, and shared purpose that mirrors the Trust’s servant leadership ethos.
“Becoming the Executive Director at the Broetje Family Trust is a homecoming for me. I am inspired and humbled by the opportunity to drive change in our community and across the world through our work across the Center for Sharing, the Jubilee Foundation, and the Vista Hermosa Foundation, and look forward to working in shared leadership with the staff, board and community to bring our vision to fruition.”
