Takija T. Gardner is a visionary and results-driven leader with over two decades of experience guiding organizations through significant growth and transformation. Known for her ability to unite diverse stakeholders and deliver lasting solutions, she leads with a strong commitment to equity and community impact.

As CEO of 4Cs of Alameda County, Takija spearheads the organization’s mission to ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive. In this role, she oversees an annual budget of $69 million and is responsible for expanding resources, advancing equity, and building powerful partnerships.

Prior to her role at 4Cs, Takija served on the executive leadership team at the YMCA of Greater San Francisco as Senior Vice President of Government Relations & External Affairs. In this capacity, she established the organization’s first external affairs function and spearheaded major capital projects, including the groundbreaking Dogpatch YMCA at Crane Cove. Her influence extended to the national and global stage, where she led the YMCA’s participation in the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health and served as a prominent speaker at YMCA National and Global Conferences. She began her career at the Bayview Hunters Point YMCA, where she rose to Senior Executive Director, strengthening operations and expanding community programs.

Takija has been recognized as one of the 25 most influential leaders in the Bay Area by the Sun Reporter. She holds a Master of Public Administration from California State University, East Bay. Takija also serves as President of the Oakland East Bay Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is a member of The Links, Incorporated, and sits on the John Muir Health Foundation Board of Directors. She is married to James Gardner, and they are the proud parents of three children: Deja, Tyler, and Aiden. Her work is deeply inspired by her love for her family and her belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.