Christine Thorsteinson

Director, Early Childhood Development at Silicon Valley Community Foundation

As SVCF's Director of Early Childhood Development, Christine Thorsteinson works to ensure that all young children in Silicon Valley have access to the care, education and resources they need to grow and flourish. Recognizing the critical importance of the first years of a child’s life, and the subsequent impact on future success, Christine strives to support local, state and federal efforts to dismantle the systemic barriers that stack the deck against our youngest and most vulnerable. Christine joined SVCF in 2016 and her earlier work included efforts to bridge the gaps between preschool and TK – 12 education systems and develop early learning leadership competencies.

Christine graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada with a Bachelor’s of Arts in English and Psychology and a Bachelor’s of Education, with a specialization in secondary English and Mathematics. As a passionate believer in the value of high-quality public education, her previous work experience includes serving as the early learning program consultant for Pacifica School District, executive director of Pacifica School Volunteers and president of the Burlingame Community for Education foundation.

Christine likes to spend her weekends outside enjoying the beauty of California and finds time for family and friends at her cottage in Canada. She makes her home in Burlingame, CA.