Season 5- Episode 9: Tami Hance-Lehr
In this episode of the Workforce Connections Podcast, we sit down with Tami Hance-Lehr, State Director and CEO of Communities In Schools of Nevada (CIS)—a woman whose career journey embodies resilience, reinvention, and a deep commitment to the community. Tami shares her story, beginning in Ogden, Utah, before her family relocated to Las Vegas during her sophomore year of high school. A proud Clark High School alum and UNLV graduate, Tami entered the workforce early, balancing school and work with grit and grace. What began as a part-time gig helping with an event during CES evolved into a 26-year career at Destinations by Design, where she played a pivotal role in growing the company from three employees to over 100, producing major events across Las Vegas.Despite her success in the private sector, Tami felt called to serve in a different way. Through her involvement with Nevada Women’s Philanthropy, she discovered the world of nonprofit leadership. That spark eventually led her to CIS in 2017, where she began as Director of Development and quickly rose to the position of CEO. Under her leadership, CIS now serves 118 schools across Nevada, providing full-time site coordinators on campus to support students with whatever they need—whether it be clean clothes, food, school supplies, or emotional guidance. Tami passionately explains that CIS removes barriers, allowing educators to teach and students to learn. “There is brilliance in every student,” she says. “Sometimes they just need an opportunity.”Tami also highlighted the importance of partnerships, including the one with Workforce Connections, which equips CIS site coordinators with tools to help students and families connect to employment, childcare, and essential community services. She’s a firm believer that nonprofits must work together rather than in silos, and thanks to programs like the Opportunity Youth Initiative, those collaborations are stronger than ever. Looking ahead, CIS is celebrating its mission and the students it serves at the Power Within Breakfast on April 25 at 8 a.m. at Red Rock Resort. This uplifting event will honor an elementary, middle, and high school student of the year, as well as standout site coordinators and community partners. Additionally, the upcoming Mentor Matchup will offer local professionals the opportunity to connect directly with students and share valuable career insights. Tami also shared her excitement about the future Shaquille O’Neal Youth Complex, a first-of-its-kind community hub opening on the east side of Las Vegas, which will include a CIS Alumni Center to support young adults aged 18–24 as they transition into the workforce or higher education.Outside of her impactful work, Tami finds peace and joy hiking across Nevada’s stunning landscapes alongside her husband, a retired firefighter, and their two Labrador retrievers. Whether exploring Red Rock Canyon or the Ruby Mountains, she finds balance in the outdoors. Her advice to young people is simple yet powerful: “Say yes more often than you say no.” You probably know more than you think you do. And never underestimate the power of your network—relationships will open more doors than you can imagine.”Community In Schools:Communities In Schools of Nevada | Student Support For All Kids
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