10/10/2026
Join us in celebrating our Executive Director, Sandra Rocco-Melville: winner of the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Leadership Award (and this is her second nomination)!
Sandra’s journey with Noah Homes is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Over nearly four decades, Sandra has held many positions at Noah Homes, from House Manager at Casa de Esperanza, to Quality Assurance Coordinator, Program Director, Chief Operations Officer, and now Executive Director. No matter her role, Sandra consistently upholds the highest standards of care and compliance, ensuring the health, happiness, and safety of Noah Homes' beloved residents.
As Executive Director, Sandra has driven Noah Homes' strategic plan, including the master plan, for generations of residents to come. She facilitated record-breaking fundraising for the nonprofit's two signature events last year: the Enchanted Village Gala and Summerfest. She helped our development team diversify funding with the launch of the Noah Society and Corporate Partners programs. Under Sandra's leadership, Noah Homes was named Nonprofit of the Year twice, including by the East County Chamber, and some of Noah's Direct Support Professionals have received regional or national recognition for excellent care from the California Disability Services Association (CDSA), the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR), and the Developmental Disabilities Provider Network (DDPN)/San Diego Regional Center (SDRC).
Sandra’s impact is felt at Noah Homes and beyond. Nationally, she is a part of Together For Choice, The CoAct Project, and the LEAD Coalition, and at the state level, she is involved with CDSA. These organizations advance best practices, rights, and quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or cognitive challenges like memory loss. Locally, she is involved with the San Diego Regional Center's Vendor Advisory Committee, DDPN San Diego, and the East County Chamber's Executive Leadership Group, where leaders discuss and address vital issues facing the county. Additionally, Sandra empowers families throughout the county through Noah's PERCH, a social club for and by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Congratulations, Sandra! We are so thankful for and inspired by your leadership.
