Dear Friends and Supporters of Hillsborough Education Foundation,
It is with mixed emotions that I share news of a pivotal transition within our organization. After years of devoted service, our Chief Executive Officer, Kim Jowell, has decided to resign from her position to embrace a new role as the CEO of the Pinellas Education Foundation. While Kim’s departure is bittersweet for us, we are wholeheartedly excited for her new journey ahead.
Under Kim’s stewardship, Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) has seen tremendous growth and impact. Her steadfast commitment to fortifying public education in Hillsborough County has been a cornerstone in driving transformative change for our community. Through her tireless efforts, countless students have been given the tools and support they need to thrive both academically and personally. The legacy of Kim’s passion, vision and dedication will indelibly remain with us, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
Perhaps the most enduring legacy Kim leaves behind is the exceptional team she has cultivated—dedicated professionals who work diligently each day to fulfill the HEF mission. I would be remiss if I didn’t highlight the formidable leadership trio within this cadre: Mike McCollum, our Chief Advancement Officer; Michelle Matis, our Chief Financial Officer; and of course, Anna Corman, our Chief Program Officer. Their collective dedication and expertise underpin the very fabric of our foundation. It is this robust legacy, embodied in our exemplary team, that assures us of HEF’s continued momentum and impact in the days to come.
As we bid Kim farewell, it is my pleasure to announce that Anna Corman will serve as the interim CEO during this period of transition. Anna’s intimate knowledge of our initiatives, coupled with her exemplary leadership attributes, positions her well to navigate us into the future. The Board of Directors has unwavering confidence in Anna’s capacity to uphold and advance HEF’s mission as we embark on our search for a new CEO.
Our commitment to empowering students in their educational journey remains unshaken. While transitions can indeed pose challenges, they also usher in fresh avenues for growth and innovation. We eagerly anticipate the continued expansion of our mission, building upon the robust foundation Kim has set in place.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Kim for her invaluable service and fervently wish her success at the Pinellas Education Foundation. Similarly, our best wishes go out to Anna as she shoulders her new role as interim CEO. With your unyielding support, we believe unreservedly that HEF will persist in its mission of making meaningful changes in the lives of students across our community.
Thank you for your ongoing generosity, enduring commitment and unwavering belief in the power of education.
Warm regards,
Chris Taylor
Chair, Board of Directors
Hillsborough Education Foundation