FIRST in Texas Foundation Names Christine Pollei President and Executive Director
AUSTIN, Texas (April 20, 2017) – The FIRST in Texas Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that supports FIRST® Robotics teams and events across Texas, today announced it has appointed Christine Pollei to serve as President and Executive Director. In this role, Christine will be responsible for working closely with the statewide robotics community and continuing expansion of FIRST programs in Texas.
Christine has spent the last 12 years effectively informing and transitioning organizations of all types and sizes. An experienced multi-sector change manager and organizational developer, she is fluent in establishing processes to identify, develop and solicit alternative funding sources and revenue streams as well as developing sustainable growth models.
“Christine Pollei has a solid history of leadership running organizations like FIRST in Texas with a similar commitment to improving opportunities for children,” said Ray Almgren, Chair and Founder, FIRST in Texas Foundation. “Christine will guide the growth of all FIRST programs as we partner with the UIL to make robotics programs available to all schools in Texas.”
Most recently, Christine served as the CEO of Marathon Kids, a national NPO headquartered in Austin, Texas. During her tenure, Marathon Kids grew their national programmatic footprint from three states to 47 states and doubled and diversified their revenue stream. She also successfully founded two for-profit businesses.
“I am thrilled and honored to serve as President and Executive Director of FIRST in Texas,” said Christine Pollei of her new role. “I look forward to building upon the great work the Board, mentors, funders and partners have begun, to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology in the great state of Texas.”
Christine Pollei will join the FIRST in Texas Foundation on May 1, 2017.