The Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation (HHEF) has named Julia Rubio as its next executive director.

Rubio, who began in her new role on Jan. 14, will be responsible for overseeing and growing the Foundation’s strong nonprofit, fundraising and relationship building operations that have allocated more than $500,000 in Innovative Learning Grants to Hatboro-Horsham School District educators and principals.

“It is an honor to be a part of a forward-thinking organization that places such a strong emphasis on education and advanced student learning,” Rubio said. “I am excited to join the HHEF family.”

The Foundation’s overall mission, what it does for students and educators, and the opportunity to serve the community are what prompted Rubio to heed the call as HHEF’s executive director. Over the past 25 years, the Foundation has built a solid connection with the area, the school district, and business and government leaders. Those relationships and partnerships, Rubio explained, have enhanced the curriculum in and outside the classroom.

“It was a very easy decision to join this fantastic organization,” Rubio added. “I wanted to continue the excellent work the Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation has done for so many years.”

Rubio was selected for her extensive insight and knowledge with nonprofit organizations and experience as an educator.

She comes to the HHEF from the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, where she serves as the executive director. Rubio launched an innovative and fast-growing cultural organization onto the national scene; designed and oversaw the development program that increased the orchestra’s individual donor base and secured significant corporate, foundation and government support; and instituted financial internal controls, budgeting, cash flow analysis, reporting and audit management. Additionally, Rubio worked as the director of development for both the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia and Astral Artists. Prior to her nonprofit work, Rubio worked as a music teacher in Massachusetts and Illinois.

When it comes to setting goals and creating a long-term vision, an organization and its executive director must first look at its mission statement — a practice that will help ensure a nonprofit is truly serving its core stakeholders. Rubio explained this simple, but effective process was one of the many actions that helped organizations she oversaw prosper.

“Every decision needs to be focused on how it is fulfilling an organization’s charitable goals,” Rubio said.

HHEF Board President Chris Stasuk welcomed Rubio to the organization, stating her wealth of experience will help move the Foundation forward in a positive direction by continuing to serve students through educational enhancement.

“I feel confident that Julia will be an effective leader whose vision will enable the Hatboro-Horsham Educational Foundation to continue improving,” Stasuk said.

Rubio holds a master’s degree in arts management from Columbia College Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in music education from Miami University. Rubio also holds a certificate in viola performance from the Luxembourg National Conservatory of Music.

Rubio replaces Laurie Rosard, who served the organization for more than five years.

“Under her leadership, HHEF has made significant strides to achieve its mission, goals and objectives,” Stasuk said. “We are truly appreciative for Laurie’s guidance and her ability to advance the organization and its cause.”