Tara was born and raised in sunny San Diego, California. She attended Chapman University for her undergraduate degree and studied Art History. Additionally, she earned a Masters of Education in college student services administration from Oregon State University. While at OSU, she worked in University Housing, New Student Programs and Family Outreach, and the Center for Leadership Development.
In 2011, Tara started working at Lewis & Clark in the Annual Giving office and managed the phonathon program and student philanthropy engagement. Tara spent the last 7 years in the Alumni and Parent Engagement office, where she planned Homecoming and Family Weekend, advised the Student Alumni Association Ambassadors, and worked on career related events. In 2022, Tara was promoted to the Director of Stewardship role. She is excited to develop meaningful events, processes, and communications that strengthen our relationships with our donors, inspire lifetime support of the college, and make our donors feel appreciated.
Tara lives in NE Portland with her husband, daughters, and pug. She loves cooking, trying new restaurants, being outdoors, and traveling.