Broncos at Work

Erin Edwards, '13, Liberal Studies

Director of Marketing and Communications, Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation

 Tell us about your career.

I am the Director of Marketing & Communications for the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF), leading the strategy and execution of digital, social, print and PR communications. I manage all aspects of digital marketing campaigns, social, email marketing, display advertising, video, photo and analytics management. Starting out as an intern, I’ve moved my way up as a coordinator, manager, and senior manager of marketing and operations. I’m in my ninth year with LADF.

What does the foundation do?

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation envisions a city where everyone, regardless of ZIP code, has the opportunity to thrive. We are tackling the most pressing problems facing Los Angeles with a mission to improve education, health care, homelessness and social justice for all Angelenos. Through a social justice lens, we run and fund proven programs that level the playing field and invest in solutions driven by the communities we serve.

What do you enjoy the most about what you do?

The impact. We like to say that it’s “Bigger Than Baseball,” and it truly is. We get to use our well-recognized brand for good. Since 2020, we have distributed over 6 million meals, impacted over 8.8 million youth and more. How can you not love what you do?

Favorite Dodger Stadium snack?

I am a big Dodger dog fan. For my birthday last year, my co-workers got me a platter of Dodger dogs instead of a cake.

How did you get to Cal Poly Pomona?

You can say that I was born at Cal Poly Pomona. My mom was pregnant with me when she was getting her teaching credential there. I went to Citrus College and transferred to Cal Poly Pomona.

Denise Kaufman, ’96, accounting

Vice President of Accounting and Financial Operations, Los Angeles Chargers

 Tell us about your career.

I wanted to be in a place that would excite and motivate me around something I felt passionate about, so I decided to pursue opportunities with the NFL. I utilized my professional network and found someone who connected me with the Chargers front office. That led to an interview and the creation of a position for me. Now I’m in my fifth season. I manage a team of 10, encompassing all the accounting, finance and payroll of the club. I also oversee the owners’ financial operations.

What do you enjoy most?

I get to do what I love doing in a fun and exciting environment. It is definitely a highlight to go downstairs, grab lunch and see all the players. There is never a dull moment, and when we win or lose, we all share that vibe the following day.

Are you a big football fan?

I was not a football fan, but my husband always had been, and when the kids (three sons and a daughter) were little, I started to like it. We became a football family.

How has your determination contributed to your success?

I am originally from Argentina. I moved to Upland during my sophomore year in high school. I only spoke Spanish. I was put in ESL classes and was determined to learn English. I did so in less than 6 months. I am a very determined person. Eyes on the prize, like I tell my children. Good things come to those who work hard.

How did CPP prepare you for your career?

I went to college to get the tools I needed to work for a CPA firm. That’s what I thought I wanted at the time. Cal Poly Pomona gave me exactly that. It also taught me the importance of networking. That’s how I got my internship at Kieckhafer Schiffer LLP, a CPA firm in Irvine, which led to a full-time job there.