Celeste White, St. Helena: A Life of Purpose, Leadership, and Community

When people think of St. Helena, the images that often come to mind are Napa Valley’s vineyards, olive groves, and its enduring sense of community. But among the people shaping the heart and spirit of this region, one name continues to stand out—Celeste White. An entrepreneur, philanthropist, and civic leader, White’s work bridges business innovation, community service, and a philosophy of leadership grounded in gratitude and faith.

A Foundation Built in Napa Valley

Born out of a love for land and tradition, White’s life in St. Helena is deeply rooted in family and agriculture. At the center of her work is Horse Rock Olive Oil, an estate-grown olive oil brand cultivated on her family ranch. As CEO, she has transformed this venture into more than a business; it is a testament to sustainable farming and Napa Valley’s agricultural heritage. Each harvest represents not just a product but a continuation of community, history, and stewardship of the land.

But Celeste White’s vision has never been limited to one industry. She embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of Napa Valley, taking ideas from inspiration to innovation across multiple sectors.

Entrepreneurial Ventures with Purpose

White is the co-founder of Stitches Medical and WearTootles.com, two ventures that reflect her belief in healthcare innovation and compassionate solutions. For her, entrepreneurship is not simply about profitability—it is about meeting real needs with integrity and care. These businesses are expressions of her philosophy that innovation should be people-centered, designed to improve lives and contribute to the greater good.

Through these enterprises, White has shown that business in St. Helena can be more than an economic driver; it can be a catalyst for community well-being and purpose-driven growth.

Lux Forum: Leadership through Gratitude

Perhaps one of Celeste White’s most influential contributions is her founding of Lux Forum, a thought-leadership organization dedicated to creating transformative experiences for leaders and changemakers. As President and Chair, she curates events that are not about transactions but about transformation.

Lux Forum gatherings emphasize gratitude, reflection, and the pursuit of social impact. They create space for leaders to reconnect with their values, share insights, and leave with a renewed sense of purpose. For White, the measure of leadership is not titles or accolades but the ability to inspire others to live intentionally and give back to their communities.

In this sense, her work in St. Helena mirrors the spirit of Lux Forum itself—an emphasis on gratitude, stewardship, and building something that will outlast one’s individual achievements.

Service Beyond Business

Celeste White’s story would not be complete without her extensive commitment to nonprofit service. She has served on numerous boards across Northern California and has been deeply involved with organizations such as The Salvation Army, Hospice, and Ag 4 Youth.

In recognition of their extraordinary service, White and her husband, Dr. Robert White, were honored with The Salvation Army’s Nehemiah Award, a distinction that underscores their shared dedication to building stronger communities.

For White, service is not a sideline but a central calling. She sees philanthropy and community engagement not as obligations but as natural extensions of her faith and values.

Commitment to Education and Mentorship

A graduate of Westmont College, Celeste White has maintained close ties with her alma mater, where she now serves as a Trustee. In this role, she supports initiatives that shape future leaders, ensuring that education remains a foundation for growth and service.

Her mentorship extends far beyond higher education. Through her involvement with the U.S. Pony Club, she has guided young equestrians, helping them develop discipline, confidence, and resilience. White views mentorship as planting seeds—investing in future generations who will continue the legacy of leadership and service in St. Helena and beyond.

A Life Anchored in Faith and Family

At the core of White’s leadership is her faith. She has often described gratitude as the cornerstone of her work, shaping not only her approach to business but also her approach to community and family life. This perspective is visible in all she does, from her stewardship of the land to her role in guiding organizations and mentoring youth.

Her family life with her husband, Dr. Robert White, is inseparable from her public work. Together, they share a life of purpose, balancing business innovation with philanthropy, and private family traditions with public service. Their St. Helena ranch, where equestrian life thrives alongside olive groves, reflects the values of faith, family, and stewardship that define their story.

Recognition and Growing Influence

White’s impact has been recognized far beyond St. Helena. She has been featured in publications such as The Tidewater News, Wire UK, and Here is New York, where her leadership has been described as both visionary and compassionate. Her work continues to gain attention for its unique blend of entrepreneurial success and community engagement.

As her influence expands, Celeste White remains committed to using her voice not for personal promotion but to highlight the importance of gratitude, reflection, and purpose in leadership. Whether in Napa Valley, at Westmont College, or through Lux Forum events, she continues to be a connector and catalyst for meaningful change.

A Legacy for St. Helena and Beyond

What sets Celeste White apart is the way she integrates all aspects of her life into a coherent vision of purpose. She is not just an entrepreneur, or a philanthropist, or a community leader—she is all three, seamlessly weaving together business innovation, service, and personal faith.

Her story is deeply intertwined with St. Helena, where her family ranch and community service remain central to her identity. But her influence extends far beyond Napa Valley, offering a model of leadership that resonates across industries and communities.

For those who encounter her work—whether through a bottle of Horse Rock Olive Oil, a Lux Forum gathering, or a nonprofit initiative she champions—the message is clear: leadership is not about personal gain, but about cultivating gratitude, service, and impact that lasts.

Conclusion

Celeste White of St. Helena embodies a rare balance of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and civic leadership. She has built businesses rooted in purpose, guided organizations that inspire reflection and gratitude, and served her community with faith and compassion. Her life is a reminder that true leadership is not measured in what one accumulates, but in what one gives, nurtures, and leaves behind.

As St. Helena continues to thrive as one of Napa Valley’s most beloved communities, it is leaders like Celeste White who ensure its spirit remains rooted in service, gratitude, and vision for the future.