Expertise

Innovation, Technology, Public Policy, Program Management, Local Government

Biography

Tara works as an Innovation Manager in Philadelphia's Office of Innovation & Technology (OIT), where she focuses on increasing public sector capacity for innovation and creative thinking. She previously worked as the Project Manager for SmartCityPHL, where she helped implement a first-time permit navigator application for Philadelphia residents and businesses to use when seeking City permits. 

Prior to joining OIT, Tara worked in the Office of Transportation and Infrastructure Systems in Philadelphia where she re-developed and managed the city’s transportation safety education program, Safe Routes Philly. She joined the City of Philadelphia in 2018, bringing several years of facilitation, grant and program management, and teaching experience in the nonprofit space. 

Tara earned her Master's degree in Public Policy from Temple University in May of 2023 and Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Temple University in 2013. 

Selected Publications

• Building Capacity: Advancing Philadelphia's Public Sector Innovation Ecosystem: https://www.phila.gov/media/20240109143831/InnovationTeamReport_FINAL.pdf
• Overbrook Neighborhood to receive a new plan for safer streets. Here’s what you need to know: https://www.phila.gov/2022-03-18-overbrook-neighborhood-to-receive-a-new-plan-for-safer-streets-heres-what-you-need-to-know/
• A look at Safe Routes Philly, the City's transportation safety education program: https://www.phila.gov/2021-04-12-a-look-at-safe-routes-philly-the-citys-transportation-safety-education-program/
• Mark your calendars: Walk and Bike to School Day is May 8, 2019!: https://www.phila.gov/2019-03-04-mark-your-calendars-walk-and-bike-to-school-day-is-may-8-2019/

Courses Taught

• Topics in Public Policy: Communicating in the Public & Non-profit Sectors