Tara Poli Named Huntington Foundation President

Huntington High School alum Tara Poli is the Huntington Foundation for Excellence in Education’s new president. She officially assumes the position on September 1 after a successful three year run by outgoing president Jennifer Stevens.

“I loved Huntington when I was a student here and now that I have the opportunity to see my kids experience the amazing teachers, variety of classes and extracurriculars, I love it even more,” Ms. Poli said. “It’s special to experience it again through their eyes. I look forward to leading HFEE in its third decade of supporting Huntington teachers and the school district.”

The Huntington alum has been active in the district for many years. Her son, Jackson, is a rising sophomore and daughter, Phoebe is a sixth grader in the dual language program at Woodhull Intermediate School.

“I’m thrilled that Tara is leading HFEE,” Ms. Stevens said. “She’s so well suited for the position. She was such a great partner to me in the role over the years, providing new ideas and has always been willing to roll up her sleeves to get the job done. I know Tara will bring that positive energy and inclusive leadership to the group.”

During her time with the Huntington Foundation, Ms. Stevens and the board increased fundraising efforts, elevated the group’s marketing materials and recruited many new members who each bring a set of new talents to the group. She will continue to support HFEE as a volunteer.

Ms. Poli has been a board member for over four years, most recently as the HFEE gala co-chair and as the organization’s vice president of development. She brings a wealth of experience in fundraising and philanthropic work, holding the position of marketing director for the Neonatal Progeroid Foundation, a charity organization that raises money and awareness for her niece’s rare disease.

Ms. Poli has been instrumental in transforming HFEE’s fundraising capabilities with a new digital platform called GiveSmart. This new technology allows for better promotion and tracking of ticket sales, raffles, promotional campaigns and more.

A senior graphic designer for Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty, Ms. Poli has many ties and relationships in the Huntington community, which helps with securing new sponsors and donors, as well as retaining longstanding supporters.

“I’ve enjoyed these past three years so much, but my job has really intensified this past year and it’s time for a change,” Ms. Stevens said. “Tara has been with HFEE for over five years and is a trusted friend and colleague. She has extensive experience in fundraising; has an inclusive leadership style and is a huge advocate for our school district. I know she will build on our shared successes.”