About Us
The Brave Tide Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2012 to provide a wide range of humanitarian services including emergency preparedness, animal rescue and relocation, and educational programs. The Foundation is led by a team of highly motivated and experienced individuals. Each member of the team brings a unique set of skills allowing the Foundation to fulfill its goals.
Mr. Peter Crooke, Board Member – Peter is an educator and mentor and leads the Foundation’s education scholarship program. His teaching experience spans 26 years and includes high school and college levels. He currently coordinates experiential education programs at the high school level, where he encourages his students to pursue an authentic approach to learning, career, and personal growth. Peter also has many years of experience mentoring high school seniors to ensure a smooth transition post graduation.
Dr. Jason Hilt, President/CEO – Jason is the founder of Brave Tide and leads a team of volunteers to fulfill the Foundation’s mission and vision. Jason is a pilot, director of technology, university instructor, and philanthropist. Jason serves as the chief executive of the Foundation and actively seeks to expand the reach of Brave Tide endeavors.
Ms. Lynmarie Hilt, Board Member – Lyn is an educational leader, college instructor, and conference presenter. Her work with using social media to enhance educational experiences is well-regarded in the field. Lyn coordinates flight operations and leads the Foundation’s information technology group. She and her husband are parents to two wonderful children and enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Ms. Elizabeth Horbal, Board Member – Liz is a school counselor with over 20 years in public education and assists with the Foundation’s educational endeavors. Liz earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and English and a master’s degree in school counseling. She is committed to ensuring every student is successful academically as well as socially and emotionally. She and her husband live with an energetic little dog, two cats, and welcome assorted wildlife who visit their rural Pennsylvania home throughout the year.
Dr. Chris Pugliese, Board Member – Chris is a central office administrator in a large public school district near Philadelphia, PA. His career spans over 22 years in education in which he has served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and principal before being appointed to his current role as director of pupil services. Chris assists the Foundation with fundraising, community engagement, and communication. In addition to his love of animals, Chris enjoys classical music, conversation and competition, and aspires to become a scratch golfer someday. He and his wife live in PA with their three children and one grandchild.
Ms. Lisa Schroeder, Board Member – Lisa is a higher education financial aid administrator at a large public university. She provides sound financial guidance to the Board of Directors and also leads the Foundation’s fundraising activities. Lisa believes in the importance of higher education and she conducts informational sessions for economically disadvantaged students who are considering college. She is happily married and she and her husband enjoy the company of their rescued cat, Kitten.
Mr. Joe Dunleavy, Board Member from 2012 – 2016 – Joe was a founding member of the Board of Directors and a true friend to the Foundation. He passed away in April 2016 and will be sorely missed. Joe was a United States Air Force veteran and registered environmental manager. He was an animal welfare advocate and brought many years of public and private sector experience to the Foundation. He is in our thoughts as we continue the work he so graciously supported.