Ray Stokes

Business leader, Finance professional, Gay, Musician, Single

Soon to be retired (5 months) Executive Director of a California, State Water Project water wholesaler for Santa Barbara County after an almost 30 year career in the water industry. Looking to explore the next chapter of my life through impactful volunteer opportunities that utilize my executive management skills, water management and financial skills. My interests outside of my professional life include: playing the piano, extensive travel, gardening, cooking, studying Spanish and French, health and wellness. Really excited about what's next for me after retirement and the ability to continue to use my various talents and abilities for the benefit of others.

Health and wellness, travel, gardening, cooking, languages, continual learning, volunteering

Live your life fully and without reservation. Life is short and we each have the ability to take control of our lives and write our own story in our own unique ways.

cooking, finance, gardening, management, music, water

I have only listened to Ted talks and recently discovered the Tednext conference and decided to attend to potentially help me in deciding what's next for me after retirement in the next few months.

Playing the piano. Studied piano to be a concert pianist in college before changing to accounting. Recently purchased my dream piano, a Steinway concert grand piano, which has reignited my passion for playing the piano.