Why JDs Make Excellent Directors!

Appaswamy “Vino” Pajanor was born in Chennai, India, into a family of attorneys whose example shaped his early path. After practicing law in India for five years, he moved to the United States to deepen his professional and personal growth, earning an LL.M. from the University of San Diego School of Law on scholarship. He began his U.S. legal career in the transactions and international group of one of San Diego’s oldest firms.

In 2006, Vino discovered his passion for mission-driven work when he co‑founded the Housing Opportunities Collaborative (HOC) to address predatory lending and the housing crisis. As CEO, he expanded HOC statewide and launched the first HUD‑recognized Virtual Counselor Network, a technology-enabled platform that improved access to housing and financial‑wellness services. In 2016, he completed the Harvard Kennedy School’s Achieving Excellence in Community Development program, strengthening his capacity for large-scale impact.

After serving as CEO of an international real estate development company, Vino returned to nonprofit leadership in 2018 as CEO of Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego. Under his guidance, the organization has significantly expanded its work across San Diego and Imperial Counties, advancing solutions in homelessness, food security, refugee resettlement, and immigration services. His leadership bridges public, private, and nonprofit sectors, championing innovative, community-centered systems of care.

Vino also contributes nationally and locally through service on the boards of Catholic Charities USA, the County of San Diego Social Services Advisory Board (Chair), and the City of Chula Vista Human Relations Commission. A frequent speaker on immigration, affordable housing, and social innovation, he is known for combining “a nonprofit heart with a for‑profit mind,” ensuring mission-driven work is grounded in financial strength, strategic clarity, and compassionate service.