By Dianne Duva, Katherine Harvey Fellows Class of 2010
The Katherine Harvey Fellows program has inspired many of us to lead with purpose, compassion, and generosity — values deeply rooted in the Santa Barbara community. The program was enhanced when Peter Karoff, founder and Chairman of The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI). Peter was a visionary philanthropist, poet, and community leader whose belief in the power of giving transformed countless lives.
He understood that leadership wasn’t just about influence or achievement — it was about generosity of spirit. Through his work with the Santa Barbara Foundation’s Katherine Harvey Fellows program, now administered through Leading from Within, he invited us to think deeply about how we could use our talents to serve others and strengthen our community.
When I was asked to share how Peter impacted my life, I thought it would be an easy task. My first instinct was to write a poem — how could it get any more “Peter” than that? But it proved to be too daunting, so instead, I’ll share a few reflections about the profound way he shaped my journey.
Peter came into my life about 15 years ago, right before many of my own milestones — starting my business, Arlington Financial Advisors, buying our first home, and welcoming our first child. It was the perfect time, because those milestones inevitably bring personal growth and self-discovery.
Peter was a thoughtful, kind soul who had this remarkable ability to lovingly challenge your assumptions. He didn’t just give advice — he asked the kind of questions that made you pause and look inward. Through those questions, he helped me learn more about myself, our community, and what it means to truly live generously.
For me, Peter’s greatest gift was his example. He showed me that generosity isn’t only about giving money — it’s about how you show up for others. It’s being generous with your attention, your time, your listening, and your care. It’s asking good questions, being open to learning, and creating space for others to grow.
As I reflect on Peter’s greatest impact on my life, it was this: he showed me that you are enough as you are — that you can lead from the heart and bring your full self into your work and your community.
Peter once said:
“With deep alignment of personal convictions with community purpose, applying one’s knowledge and skills becomes irresistible. There is a sense of acute purpose that stretches far beyond one’s individual interests.”