Meet Lynn Matsuda
The March winds blew an energetic, talented and experienced woman to Impact100 for this month's highlight – Lynn Matsuda!
Born in Chicago, Lynn's parents were from the Sacramento area and the family returned to the West Coast when Lynn was still a youngster. Always motivated to lead, after high school Lynn dove into a long and successful career in banking, solving problems in progressively more demanding positions, and eventually retiring as an accomplished Executive Vice President after more than 30 years.
Always entrepreneurial in her thinking, Lynn didn't stop giving her time and talent upon retirement, and immediately transitioned to independent project management. As a Lifestyle Concierge (a term she coined herself!), Lynn performs a variety of project work for individuals and businesses from basic organization to C-Suite level consulting including restructuring and advisement.
On a personal note, Lynn met her husband Brooks here in Sacramento and has been married for over 40 years. To complete the family, she and Brooks have a spirited dog, Jewels, who they rescued from the Lodi Humane Society.
This is Lynn's 2nd year with Impact 100 Greater Sacramento, and we are excited to have such an accomplished woman on our team. Thank you, Lynn!
What is the aspect about Impact100 you are most passionate about?
I am most passionate about how my individual contribution, when combined with those of other philanthropic women, can dramatically transform the trajectory of local nonprofits—creating a difference far greater than I could achieve alone.
What is one thing we should know about you?
I'm the best person to have around when asparagus or artichokes are on the menu! I only eat the bottoms of asparagus, leaving the tops for others. And when it comes to artichokes, after I've enjoyed the meat off the leaves, I happily give away the heart—the best part!
If you could have lunch with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
My grandmother on my dad's side. I would love to learn more about her experience as a single mother raising nine children in the late 1910s and 1920s after my grandfather passed away at a young age. It would be incredible to learn about the challenges she faced and to hear more about my dad's childhood, as well as my aunts and uncles.
What is your favorite restaurant?
As a self-proclaimed foodie, it's hard to choose just one! In Sacramento, Frank Fat's is high on my list. But my ultimate favorite is Sunday brunch at the Halekulani in Honolulu—it's truly the BEST!
What are your hobbies?
I'm not sure if these count as hobbies, but I love shopping—whether it's for clothes, the perfect gift, or unique finds. I also enjoy discovering and dining at new restaurants.
What is/are your favorite travel destination(s)?
Oahu is my happy place—we visit at least twice a year, and if we're lucky, up to four times! I also loved our trip to Japan and would love to go back to explore the places we missed.
What is a place you haven't traveled, but would love to visit?
Cinque Terre in Italy.