The Board of Directors of United Anglers of Southern California (UASC) has announced that it has selected Steven Fukuto to serve as the non-profit organization's new president.
Fukuto's qualifications for this position of extreme importance and responsibility include parallel careers in the financial and sportfishing industries. Fukuto has been providing financial and management advisory services through his firm Fukuto & Company since 1994. An avid businessman, recreational angler and family man, Fukuto has also been an owner/partner in the commercial sportfishing vessel M/V Eldorado since 1993, and became a partner in Long Beach Sportfishing - based at Berth 55 in Long Beach, California - beginning in 1998.
Fukuto has also been a long-time member of UASC and serves on the organization's board of directors. He has held the key position of UASC Treasurer since 2006, applying his business expertise to ensure sound fiscal direction and a solid foundation for this (501 3c) non-profit organization founded in 1989.
This selection was made after a lengthy search and interview process that included qualified candidates from both inside and outside the organization. "On behalf of the UASC Board of Directors, I want to express my gratitude to the candidates - as well as to the executive search committee for undertaking this challenge," said David Elm, UASC board chairman and acting president. "I have no doubt Steve will do an exemplary job of leading UASC and representing the interests of recreational anglers - guided by his industry experience, knowledge of key issues and financial background. Given the economic challenges facing the industry and the nation as a whole, we can't underestimate the importance of having a man at the helm who understands how to operate efficiently and effectively," added Elm.
In addition to his "official" duties on the Board of Directors, Fukuto has been one of the organization's most active volunteers and has consistently demonstrated his personal commitment to UASC's mission. "From testifying at public hearings to representing UASC at events to volunteering his vessel to help bring more families and kids into fishing, I don't think anybody has worked harder for UASC," Elm said.
"I'm honored by the board's decision and looking forward to facing the challenges ahead," Fukuto said. "As UASC marks its 20th Anniversary this year, we are at pivotal point in history. To coin a phrase, the future of recreational fishing will be what we make it. Our mission is to achieve healthy, sustainable oceans in balance with robust recreational fishing opportunities. The implementation of the Marine Life Protection Act in Southern California is obviously foremost in the minds of anglers, and we will continue taking a proactive role in this process. However, this is just one important issue demanding our attention and action. We must take a multifaceted approach that addresses core issues like destructive commercial fishing gear, habitat enhancement and creating a new generation of anglers to carry the torch. There is much to be done and much we can accomplish with the support of our members, volunteers and the industry," added Fukuto.
To find out about joining United Anglers of Southern California, or learn about the ongoing conservation and fishing activities of this non-profit organization, call UASC headquarters at (949) 863-9447 or visit online at www.unitedanglers.com.
