FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2026 – Los Angeles
There’s a certain electricity that comes with a changing of the guard—an unmistakable sense that something is ending, but something equally potent is just beginning. MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), is the largest civilian UFO investigation organization in the world. Southern California MUFON, long a quiet force steps into that charged space today with the announcement of new leadership at the helm.
After six years of steady stewardship, Gene Meregillano is stepping down, leaving behind a legacy defined less by headlines and more by impact—the kind that ripples outward, changing lives in ways that don’t always make the front page but absolutely should. Under Gene’s watch, the organization didn’t just grow; it sharpened its voice, expanded its reach, and doubled down on the kind of work that actually matters.
Taking up the mantle is Michael J. Riso, who is known for being a bridge builder between the hard physical world and the unseen forces that science cannot measure. More importantly, he understands that nonprofit work isn’t about optics—it’s about outcomes. If the past era was about building a foundation for MUFON, this next one feels poised to test just how high the structure can go.
“This moment is about honoring what’s been built while refusing to stand still,” Riso said. “The challenges we face don’t wait, and neither can we.”
Carol (C.J.) Arabia is now the Assistant State Director for Southern California MUFON, and the Regional MUFON Director for the Southwest United States. Arabia has been the Chief Investigator in Southern California since the State Director Emeritus, Earl Grey Anderson, passed away on April 27, 2025. Both Riso and Arabia were mentored by Anderson for several years. He saw Riso as “a young Jacque Vallee” and Arabia to be “similar to Dr. Karla Turner”.
The transition comes at a time when organizations like MUFON are being asked to do more, move faster, and dig deeper. And if history is any indication, playing it safe has never really been their style.
For members, supporters, and the communities they serve, this isn’t just a leadership change—it’s a signal. The MUFON mission remains, but the tempo is shifting, and the momentum continues.
Media Contact:
Michael J. Riso
State Director, So. Cal. MUFON
[email protected]
