Taralyn Kohler, Executive Director
Sister
I genuinely enjoy strategically leading non-profits to discover innovative ways to further their mission.
Having worked with charities since childhood, I have an intense passion for philanthropy. I would describe myself as a passionate leader who has a strong zest for life-long learning and a knack for recruiting the right talent to join my professional and philanthropic adventures. I aspire to spend the second half of my life using my creative energy to make a positive difference in the lives of others and thrive on new challenges to mobilize people for good.
After a successful career as a telecom executive, I changed course and am using my executive leadership skills as a Nonprofit Consultant. The problem solving, recruiting, business acumen skills as well as experiences gained and refined in the corporate world enable me to excel naturally in a philanthropic environment. I bring a combination of vision, passion, and energy to the table every day.
I have discovered that one of the most rewarding ways to champion the causes that I serve is through storytelling. I enjoy bringing to life in words, photos, and on video the emotional experiences of the communities we serve while serving as a voice for others. Sadly, cancer affects all of us and has personally affected me. My sister is a melanoma cancer survivor. My aunt is a breast cancer survivor. My uncle lost his battle to cancer. My mentor lost his brave fight to brain cancer. We all have stories, and we look forward to telling yours.
In rebranding BSNCF, my main goal was to bring to life the stories and energy of Jenny Searing and Mary Barnett creating a true legacy that represented the spirit of these women. I met Jenny when I was in high school. While I looked up to her as a leader, what I remember most was her infectious laugh and smile. The “Smile Kit” program was created with her in mind. I was also inspired by the poem that Mary Barnett left for her family. This sparked the idea for card making campaign which has been uplifting to many patients. We are now receiving cards from individuals and groups all over the US which are included in our Smile Kits.
Aside from my work as a non-profit leader, I enjoy being a member of the National Charity League and Young Men’s Service League through which I share my love of helping others volunteering with my children. I am grateful to the unpaid volunteers and to our dedicated board who make The Barnett-Searing National Cancer Foundation great.
In my free time, I enjoy using fitness as an outlet to relieve stress and to foster creative thoughts which often translate into big ideas. I look forward to representing BSNCF in 2020 athletic events and spreading awareness.