Theresa Cunningham

Theresa Cunningham is the Vice President of People, Culture & Purpose at the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA), where she leads human resources; diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); and social impact initiatives to advance San Diego as an inclusive destination. She oversees SDTA's award-winning Tourism Accelerator program, fosters collaboration across Sales, Marketing, and Membership, and represents SDTA on community boards to strengthen industry and civic partnerships.

With over 15 years of experience in organizational development, strategy, research and consulting, Theresa has worked with purpose-driven organizations committed to a more equitable and sustainable future. She excels in coaching leaders, translating big ideas into action, designing systems for performance and driving innovation through strategic resources and networks.

Previously, Theresa was Vice President at Reality Changers, expanding student services and deepening community partnerships. She has also consulted for Teach For All and UNESCO, supporting global initiatives in educational equity and community development.

She holds an M.A. from Columbia University and a B.A. from the University of Southern California, along with certifications in Human Resources, DEI, and Change Management. She currently serves on advisory boards for Destinations International and the Burnham Center for Community Advancement, and previously on boards for the University of San Diego and the San Diego Perinatal Equity Initiative. Theresa is a 2023 LEAD Advance graduate, and has been recognized with awards including San Diego Magazine's 2024 Tourism and Hospitality Rising Star and San Diego Business Journal's 2024 40 Next Top Business Leaders Under 40.

Committed to inclusive leadership and meaningful community impact, Theresa is passionate about empowering leaders to thrive, achieve their goals and uplift others along the way.