Board Members

CEO

Background:
Derek Dixon is an entrepreneur and business development professional with experience in construction, sales, technology, and project development. His background includes building businesses, developing strategic partnerships, and coordinating complex initiatives involving private companies, public agencies, and community organizations.

Current Initiatives:
Derek serves as President and CEO of Murrieta Recreation Foundation and is leading development of the proposed Murrieta Sports Village. His work includes municipal engagement, site strategy, partnership development, operator coordination, financial planning, and collaboration with design, construction, legal, and financing professionals. The project is being developed as a regional sports and recreation destination combining ice sports, outdoor multi sport fields, tournaments, training, community programming, and events.

Mission Statement:
To expand access to sports and recreation in Southwest Riverside County by building strong partnerships and advancing projects that create lasting opportunities for local athletes, families, and the broader community.

CFO

Background:

David Gandara brings over a decade of experience in city government, economic development, and community planning, paired with firsthand experience as a former professional hockey player. He played professionally for the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, giving him direct insight into the operational, athletic, and community impact of ice sports facilities. With a background in business and public administration, David has worked on a variety of strategic projects aimed at strengthening local economies, enhancing public spaces, and aligning city infrastructure with long-term community needs. His ability to bridge public vision with private opportunity makes him a valuable asset to any civic initiative.

Current Initiatives:

David currently supports regional development projects focused on youth recreation, sustainable infrastructure, and nonprofit collaboration. He continues to work with local entrepreneurs and organizations across Southern California to advance projects that combine economic viability with meaningful community benefit.

Mission Statement

To help create civic spaces that reflect local values, promote wellness, and deliver long-term social and economic impact.

Director

Background:

William Ulrich is a California-licensed attorney with extensive experience with intellectual property, contracting, and regulatory matters. In his current practice, he advises clients on patent strategy, risk management, and contractual considerations. With a technical background in physics and mathematics, William brings a rigorous, analytical approach to legal problem-solving and long-term planning.

Current Initiatives:

William is actively engaged in advising organizations and founders on governance, compliance, and institutional readiness. Through his role with the Murrieta Recreation Foundation, he provides strategic guidance to support the development of the Murrieta Ice Rink and the Foundation’s broader mission to expand access to youth recreation and community infrastructure.

Mission Statement:

To support mission-driven organizations through clear legal strategy, disciplined governance, and long-term institutional integrity.