Volunteer New York! is proud to announce the appointment of Polly Lagana as its new Executive Director, effective July 16, 2025. Lagana brings over two decades of nonprofit leadership experience and a deep commitment to equity, volunteerism, and civic engagement. Polly joins Volunteer New York! at a pivotal moment in the organization’s history — in the midst of its milestone 75th anniversary year — with a bold vision for its future and a proven track record of transformational leadership. Most recently, Polly served as Executive Director of the T200 Foundation, a global network advancing women in technology, where she led a strategic expansion that increased revenue by 50% and significantly grew volunteer engagement and corporate partnerships.
Her previous leadership roles include Chief Resource Development Officer at the Westchester, NY-based STEM Alliance and Director positions at Student Leadership Network, where she helped scale college access and girls education programs that reached thousands of students across New York City. In addition to her executive experience, Polly has served as an adjunct professor of communications at Baruch College and Union County College, bringing a unique combination of hands-on teaching, strategic fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration to her work. Polly lives in the Village of Larchmont with her husband and three children.
“Volunteer New York! is a community anchor — empowering people to take action and build stronger, more connected communities,” said Lagana. “It is an honor to join this extraordinary team and lead an organization with such a strong legacy and powerful mission. I look forward to working with our volunteers, partners, and supporters to expand impact and advance our shared vision of a more vibrant and equitable region.”
Polly succeeds Interim Executive Director Suzanne C. Tillman, who has stewarded the organization since early 2025 following the departure of longtime Deputy Director–turned– Executive Director Jeanette Gisbert. Volunteer New York! thanks Suzanne for her thoughtful and steady leadership during this period of transition. “Polly’s strategic vision, deep community ties, and passion for service make her the ideal leader to guide Volunteer New York! as it begins its next 75 years of impact,” said Amy Seiden, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We are thrilled to welcome her and excited for the future.”
