October 11, 2022

I am writing to share important news about a leadership transition at Big Picture Philadelphia (BPP). As of October 3, Tia Hall, formerly Senior Director of Real World Learning at BPP, stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director. Tia replaces Catie Wolfgang, who in a short time accomplished a number of important initiatives, including moving El Centro to a new location and advancing key elements of the organization’s strategic plan. We are grateful for Catie’s dedicated service to the organization and wish her well in her new endeavors.

There is much excitement surrounding Tia’s appointment to the helm of the organization. Since joining BPP in 2018, Tia has been a changemaker, visionary, and dedicated leader. She has reimagined BPP’s signature Real World Learning (RWL) and Learning Through Internships (LTI) models to include group internships, certification programming, service learning, and interdisciplinary project work. With a strong focus on equity, educational advancement, community engagement, and student success, the program successfully engaged 90% of students during the pandemic and increased participation of employer partners by 15%, diversified mentors, and significantly expanded the number of opportunities for students. 

Throughout her career, Tia has worked to create avenues for success and generational wealth for young people of color by promoting equity, social-emotional health, and educational advancement. Before joining BPP, she served as Climate Manager for the School District of Philadelphia, where she tackled barriers to student learning and established a data-driven culture that supports student growth and school-wide improvement. Her prior experience as an advocate for students includes Philadelphia Scholars Program Manager at the Philadelphia Education Fund and Student Advisor at the School District of Philadelphia. Tia is currently pursuing her Ed.D. at Drexel University with a concentration in Creativity and Innovation.

Tia’s love for children and her determination to see them succeed academically has been the driving force of her career. Tia approaches her work with passion and innovation and is committed to building more equitable and sustainable systems that serve the whole child.

Born and raised in the Olney section of North Philadelphia, Tia is committed to giving back to the communities and the village that shaped the person she is today. “I have spent the last three years at Big Picture Philadelphia doing what I love: walking with our students as they explore their passions; helping them build lifelong networks; extending learning beyond our four walls; and permitting our students to dream!

“In this new role, I plan to respond to our young people’s evolving challenges by creating more mentorship opportunities, strengthening relationships with Big Picture Philadelphia partners, and focusing on our best work, advisory, resiliency, and Real World Learning.” 

From Tia’s first day at BPP, she has impressed me with her passion, leadership, and vision. She is exactly the right person to take our powerful model to the next level. Please join me in welcoming Tia into her new role.

Sincerely,

 Maia Cucchiara,

 Board Chair, Big Picture Philadelphia