Board Member

Graydon Rose was born and raised in San Diego, growing up in the Ocean Beach and Point Loma communities where the ocean, surfing, and aquatic life became a central part of his identity and remain an important part of his life today. He earned his B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and later received his J.D., Cum Laude, from University of California, Hastings College of the Law.

Prior to pursuing a legal career, Graydon co-founded a boutique technical recruiting firm focused on supporting early-stage startups throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Following law school, Graydon joined the San Diego County Public Defender’s Office as a Deputy Public Defender, where he currently provides a holistic approach to criminal defense that recognizes the broader personal, family, and community challenges individuals may face within the justice system.

His professional and volunteer experiences have consistently centered on youth advocacy, mentorship, and community development. Over the years, he has served in various volunteer and advisory capacities with organizations including Real Options for City Kids, Learning Partners, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Graydon first connected with Urban Surf 4 Kids during the pandemic and quickly became deeply involved in the organization’s mission. Since then, he has served in multiple capacities including logistics coordinator, volunteer, and Hanai Mentor, and has been an active member of the Board of Directors since 2021.

Through his work with Urban Surf 4 Kids and the San Diego legal community, Graydon is committed to building meaningful partnerships between criminal justice stakeholders and Urban Surf 4 Kids to help expand support, mentorship, and positive opportunities for foster and at-risk youth.