Emily Uhlhorn, a Mill Valley parent of four Tam High students and a current Tamalpais Union High School District trustee, will take over as executive director of the Tam High Foundation in January 2027.

The foundation's board of directors unanimously selected Uhlhorn following a search, the nonprofit announced Thursday, July 23. She will finish her elected trustee term in December 2026 before stepping into the paid, part-time leadership role.

"I have been fortunate to experience Tam High from many perspectives — as a parent, volunteer, community member, and Trustee," Uhlhorn said in the announcement. "The Foundation's impact on students, teachers, and programs is extraordinary, and I am honored to continue serving the Tam community in this new role."

Two of Uhlhorn's children have already graduated from Tam High; her twins will be seniors this fall. Before joining the TUHSD board in 2022, she served as president and vice president of the Mill Valley School District Board of Trustees and sat on that district's Community Financial Advisory Committee beginning in 2016. She holds a master's degree in special education.

The appointment comes as the foundation prepares to mark its 30th anniversary in November 2026. Since its founding in 1996, the nonprofit has awarded more than $20 million in grants to Tamalpais High School, funding classroom programs, arts enrichment, student wellness initiatives, and technology that the district's own budget cannot cover. The foundation says 95% of TUHSD funding goes to staff salaries and operations, leaving little room for enrichment spending.

For the 2025–2026 school year, the foundation set a fundraising goal of $868,800, asking $950 per student. It receives 50 to 60 grant applications from Tam High teachers and staff each year and also raises money for the Conservatory Theatre Ensemble, Patrons of the Arts at Tam High, and Tam High United Music Boosters.

Board Chair Michele Kuhns called Uhlhorn "an outstanding choice" and said the foundation is excited to welcome a leader who understands the community heading into its fourth decade.

Tam High Principal Sam Pasarow said the foundation is "an essential partner in helping our students and teachers thrive" and that he looks forward to working with Uhlhorn and the board.

Interim Executive Director Elizabeth Warner led the foundation during the leadership transition. Interim Development Director Anne Nowlin will continue leading fundraising efforts through December 2026 to ensure a smooth handoff.

Residents can learn more or donate at tamhighfoundation.org.