Ryland Penta is passionate about building stronger communities through civic engagement. As the Community Relations Supervisor for the City of Palm Desert, Ryland leads efforts to modernize communication practices and enhance outreach tools, transforming how the city connects with residents, businesses, and organizations.
In addition to his work with the City, Ryland serves as a Board Member for Leadership Coachella Valley, a regional program designed to identify, motivate, and develop future community leaders. He is an active member of the Historical Society of Palm Desert and the Palm Desert Rotary. Before settling in the Coachella Valley, he worked in Washington, D.C., at the United States Congress, coordinating a diplomatic exchange program for Members of Congress and foreign dignitaries.
Ryland holds a Master of Science in International Relations with honors from the University of Edinburgh and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Washington, graduating magna cum laude. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, he now calls Palm Desert home and enjoys exploring the Coachella Valley with his Goldendoodle, Waffles.
If you’d like to chat about how cities can better connect with their communities, don’t hesitate to say hello—Ryland is always happy to share insights and learn what other organizations are doing!