Tari P. Hughes
Executive Director since January of 2005, Tari Hughes brings a wealth of nonprofit experience to the Foundation. She spent nearly five years as Vice President of Development for the Tennessee Performing Arts Center where she was responsible for raising approximately $2.5 million. Before TPAC, Tari served Vanderbilt University in several alumni and development capacities, most recently with the Owen Graduate School of Management. Currently, Tari serves on the Boards of the Center for Nonprofit Management, Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet and Tennesseans for the Arts. Her community involvement includes many years with the Junior League of Nashville where she concentrated her efforts as Executive Producer of Heart of the Matter, a weekly community affairs television program. Hughes is actively involved in her church and her children's school activities. A native Nashvillian, she attended Hillsboro High School and DePauw University. She is married to James (Jim) G. Hughes, Jr.
Barbara Sammons
Foundation Administrator since January 2001, Barbara Sammons is a former Assistant Vice President of Bank of America. Originally from Los Angeles, her work experience has allowed her to be a professional chef, graphic designer, marketing professional and master gardener. Recipient of numerous photography awards, Barbara is an avid world traveler who captures the spirit of foreign places with her lens. As well, she markets her own line of original jewelry. Barbara's other interests are web design, gardening, bookbinding, beading, music, reading and cooking.