Board of Directors
Jesse billauer
Jesse Billauer is the Founder and Executive Director / CEO of the Life Rolls On Foundation; the only 3X World Champion of Adaptive Surfing; a Surfing Walk of Fame Inductee; one of the most inspirational surfers on the planet; and a sought-after motivational speaker.
Jesse is also the creator and host of Night By The Ocean – a magical gala fundraiser on the sands of the exclusive Jonathan Beach Club in Santa Monica CA. Now in its 17th year, Night By The Ocean has showcased the musical talent of Jason Mraz, Ziggy Marley, Young The Giant, and so many more iconic artists. It is a night not to be missed!
Jesse holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from San Diego State University. A Southern California native son, he resides close to the ocean with his twin boys – who have, of course, taken up the family sport!
If you would like to learn how you can support the life-changing work of the Life Rolls On Foundation, please email Jesse.
You can learn more about Jesse’s story at jessebillauer.com
Jonathan Drubner, CFP
Jonathan Drubner is an Advisor at Lindbrook Capital. Prior to his leadership in wealth management, Jonathan spent 17 years as writer, producer and host for the entertainment, sports, and video game industries. He was the host and producer of ESPN Road Trip, as well as the head writer and co-producer of the ESPY Awards. Jonathan’s work on the show earned him an Emmy nomination.
Jonathan holds a bachelor’s degree from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and is a graduate of the Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut. He currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife, son, and goldendoodle.
Danielle Mendez
Danielle Mendez brings grace and grandeur to events. A veteran in the hospitality and culinary space, she produces breathtaking occasions for individuals, corporations, and non-profits. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Danielle provides superior event production and management, catering services, culinary education, and gorgeous venues for weddings, galas, themed parties, birthdays, and more.
With experience in Southern California and Maui, Danielle is able to provide venue spaces uniquely tailored to each client. She resides in Los Angeles.
tricia nordby
Tricia Nordby is a brand’s guardian angel and the Founder of Gold Groves Communications. She was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist, a Forty Under 40 Person to Watch, a CEO on the Fast 50 List of Minnesota Business, and is the recipient of over 20 national design awards.
Tricia holds a bachelor’s degree with honors in journalism, American history, and mathematics. She is the first Young Alumna of the Year of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and researched her Honors Thesis at Harvard University and the Library of Congress. She resides in Los Angeles.
Advisors
Bob Hurley
After Jesse’s surfing accident, Bob Hurley was the first to believe in Life Rolls On. Bob has been with us at every stage of this journey. The Foundation is profoundly humbled to call Bob a friend and advisor.
Rob Machado
This world legend shares the stoke of surfing with everyone. Rob was one of the original "band of brothers" who helped Jesse back to the ocean after his accident; and he has been a constant source of positivity for Life Rolls On. He is a model of how to live and give to the fullest.
Rob is a world champion surfer, activist and generous philanthropist.
Jason Mraz
Jason has propelled the Foundation forward. He's a rare soul, this guy. He's hosted benefit concerts for Life Rolls On, sponsored our tours, and pushed adaptive athletes into waves more times than we can count. Eternal gratitude to a beautiful human being.
Jason is a two-time Grammy Award winner, farmer, humanitarian and surfer.