Celeste White, St. Helena: Leading with Purpose in Napa Valley and Beyond

In Napa Valley, where vineyards and olive groves stretch across rolling hills, Celeste White has built a life that blends innovation, community leadership, and an enduring commitment to service. A dynamic entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leader, White has become known not only for her ventures in wellness and business but also for her dedication to empowering others through gratitude, mentorship, and faith.

A Vision Rooted in Innovation and Community

As President and Chair of Lux Forum, an organization she founded, White has created a space where leaders and visionaries gather to reflect on gratitude, explore new ideas, and chart paths for social impact. Lux Forum events go beyond traditional networking—they foster connection, renewal, and a sense of shared responsibility for community well-being. White’s philosophy is clear: leadership is not just about success, but about inspiring others to live lives of meaning and contribution.

Her entrepreneurial spirit extends into diverse industries. As CEO of Horse Rock Olive Oil, White has stewarded her family’s estate near St. Helena into a thriving brand that celebrates both agricultural tradition and sustainable business. The olive oil, grown and pressed on her ranch, reflects a love of land and heritage, reminding customers that nourishment and community are deeply connected.

White is also the co-founder of Stitches Medical and WearTootles.com, ventures that highlight her commitment to healthcare innovation. Both businesses reflect her belief in compassionate, purpose-driven solutions—innovations designed not simply for profit but to improve lives and meet real needs.

Service as a Way of Life

White’s leadership extends far beyond the business world. A graduate and current Trustee of Westmont College, she has long viewed education as a powerful tool for equipping the next generation. Through this role, she supports academic and faith-based programs that shape future leaders who will carry forward the values of service and responsibility.

Her decades of nonprofit work are a testament to her dedication. White has served on numerous boards and supported organizations such as The Salvation Army, Hospice, and Ag 4 Youth. In 2023, she and her husband, Dr. Robert White, received The Salvation Army’s Nehemiah Award for their extraordinary commitment to building stronger communities—a recognition that underscores the impact of their shared philanthropy.

Her contributions extend to youth mentorship as well. As an active supporter of the U.S. Pony Club, White has mentored countless young people, helping them develop not only equestrian skills but also confidence, resilience, and leadership qualities that last a lifetime. This work, rooted in her own lifelong love of the outdoors and horses, demonstrates her belief that leadership is cultivated early, through discipline, care, and connection to community.

A Life Anchored in Faith and Family

Faith is a cornerstone of White’s journey. Her work across organizations reflects not just a civic duty but a spiritual calling to serve. She often speaks of gratitude as the foundation of leadership—an idea woven into the very mission of Lux Forum and the culture she builds in each of her ventures.

At home, she shares her life with her husband, Dr. Robert White. Together, they embody a partnership dedicated to service, innovation, and community-building. Their ranch in St. Helena is more than a home—it is a hub of equestrian life, agriculture, and hospitality that reflects their deep roots in Napa Valley.

Recognition and Influence

White’s influence has been recognized across sectors. From community awards to profiles in national and regional media, her work has been highlighted as a model of visionary leadership. Articles published in outlets such as The Tidewater News, Wire UK, and Here is New York have described her as a trailblazer whose ventures in business and service are reshaping Napa Valley and inspiring others far beyond its borders.

Her role as a thought leader continues to expand. Whether through speaking engagements, board service, or mentorship, White is seen as a connector—someone who brings together diverse voices to work toward common good. This reputation has positioned her as both a local anchor and a national voice on the intersections of wellness, innovation, and civic engagement.

The Power of Gratitude and Reflection

What sets Celeste White apart is not only her achievements but also the lens through which she views them. For her, success is measured less by titles and outcomes and more by the lives touched and the communities strengthened. She often frames her work in terms of gratitude—a practice she believes sustains leaders and enables them to remain resilient and generous in times of challenge.

Through Lux Forum and her public voice, White invites others to embrace gratitude not as an abstract idea but as a practical tool for leadership. Reflection, she believes, is what transforms ambition into vision, and service into legacy.

Looking Ahead

As she continues to expand her ventures and deepen her service, White remains focused on building bridges between business innovation and community well-being. Whether through expanding the reach of Horse Rock Olive Oil, guiding the next generation at Westmont College, or curating transformative gatherings at Lux Forum, she is shaping a legacy defined by compassion, purpose, and vision.

Her story is one of integration—of faith and work, tradition and innovation, personal passion and public service. In a world often divided between profit and purpose, White demonstrates that the two can not only coexist but also amplify one another.

Conclusion

Celeste White’s journey reflects a rare blend of entrepreneurial success, philanthropic vision, and deep community engagement. In Napa Valley and beyond, she has emerged as a leader who redefines what it means to thrive—leading not only with ambition but with gratitude, reflection, and a steadfast commitment to service. For those who encounter her work, whether through a Lux Forum gathering, a bottle of Horse Rock Olive Oil, or a community initiative she champions, the message is clear: leadership is not about what you achieve for yourself, but about what you cultivate in others.