Portage Foundation Appoints Scott Taylor as Executive Director Alongside New Operations and Outreach Managers
The Portage Foundation announced it has hired three new staff members, including Scott Taylor as the Executive Director.
Taylor, who most recently served as Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Mahoning Valley (HFHMV), has extensive experience in leading non-profit organizations with strong community-building missions. His efforts at HFHMV included a successful endowment campaign and a redefined organizational structure, which positioned the non-profit well for the future. This mirrors similar success in donor outreach, marketing, and development while holding prior leadership positions in YMCA organizations in both Northeast Ohio and Western New York. Taylor’s diverse knowledge in fundraising, staff development, community outreach and board development will allow the Portage Foundation to continue to positively impact the residents of Portage County and the greater Northeast Ohio area.
“We’re pleased to have someone with Scott’s executive expertise and fundraising background as our leader for the Foundation,” said Debbie Smeiles, Portage Foundation Board of Trustees President. “Scott will bring both stability and growth to the foundation, allowing us to fulfill our mission for the residents of Portage.”
In addition to Taylor, the foundation welcomed two additional new staff members: Mary Anne Zeman as Operations Manager and Janice Simmons-Mortimer as Outreach Manager.
Zeman brings extensive experience in organizational management to the team, having served most recently as Office Manager for Sto-Kent Physical Therapy practice in Kent. Her bookkeeping and records management skills will be instrumental in the foundation’s growth and development.
Simmons-Mortimer has a diverse background in marketing and small business operations, with extensive experience in community organizations. Her skills in communications and organizational management will allow for greater connection between the foundation, its donors, and those receiving grants and scholarships.
Since its creation 25 years ago, the Portage Foundation’s mission has been to build a thriving and dynamic community for Portage County and the region. Over the ensuing years, the foundation was successful in building endowments and encouraging philanthropy, growing to over $8 million under management, with nearly $100,000 in grants and scholarships awarded annually.