Historic Oakland Foundation Welcomes New Members to 2026 Board of Directors
Historic Oakland Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors: Sean Fahie, Mary Ellen Imlay, Steve Goodman, and Chelsea Ulrich Tarnoff. Together, they bring a dynamic mix of creative leadership, philanthropic stewardship, business expertise, and civic engagement to support the future of one of Atlanta’s most significant historic landscapes. In addition, board member Barrett Coker Krise will assume the role of HOF Board Chair, succeeding Kavin Manickaraj who will serve as immediate Past Chair.
Top Row (L–R): Seah Fahie, Mary Ellen Imlay, Steve Goodman
Bottom Row (L–R): Chelsea Ulrich Tarnoff, Barrett Coker Krise, Kavin Manickaraj
“These new board members arrive at an important moment for Oakland,” said Richard Harker, CEO of Historic Oakland Foundation. “As we expand how Oakland serves Atlanta, as a place of preservation, reflection, creativity, and community, their collective experience will help guide thoughtful growth while honoring the site’s history and importance. Each brings a distinct perspective that strengthens our ability to steward Oakland for generations to come.”
Mary Ellen Imlay is Chairman and President of The Imlay Foundation, Inc. and a longtime leader in Atlanta’s philanthropic community. She has served on the boards of numerous civic and cultural institutions, including the Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia Public Broadcasting, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation. Her longstanding relationship with Historic Oakland Foundation includes service on its Campaign Committee and Advisory Board, as well as leadership support for major preservation efforts, including the restoration of Oakland Cemetery’s historic 1899 Bell Tower.
Sean Fahie is an award-winning Atlanta-based artist, author, and founder of Sean Fahie Studio. With nearly two decades of professional experience, Fahie is known for blending traditional and digital media across illustration, design, and creative writing. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he earned both a BFA in graphic design and an MA in illustration, Fahie has collaborated with organizations including Atlanta Contemporary, WABE, Georgia Power, and Historic Oakland Foundation for the 2025 Capturing the Spirit of Oakland. He is also the author of four books of short stories and creative work.
Steve Goodman is a nationally recognized entrepreneur and executive with extensive experience in event production, meeting management, and business leadership. He currently serves as Managing Director at Etherio Group, following the acquisition of his company, MeetingAdvice. Goodman has held leadership roles with organizations including Make-A-Wish Foundation, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, and Zoo Atlanta, and has been recognized with numerous awards for his professional and philanthropic contributions.
Chelsea Ulrich Tarnoff is a senior management consultant and civic leader with deep expertise in organizational change and nonprofit strategy. Currently a Manager at Deloitte Consulting LLP, Tarnoff leads digital transformation and change management initiatives across global clients. Her prior roles include leadership positions with Civic Dinners, Teach For America, Teach Plus, and nonprofit consulting firms focused on human capital and organizational effectiveness. She serves on multiple nonprofit boards in Atlanta and is an Outstanding Atlanta 2025 inductee and member of LEAD Atlanta Class of 2023.
