Since organizing an Arts & Crafts program for the residents at a local nursing home as a teenager, Tamara Lopata has been passionate about serving others. She followed that passion into full-time work in 2012 joining the Development team at TechBridge, an Atlanta-based nonprofit that provides business and technology support to other nonprofits.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, Ms. Lopata immediately looked for an opportunity to turn that challenge into a positive way to help others. Participating in a clinical trial for a cutting-edge chemotherapy treatment made it possible for her to pay it forward and contribute to life-saving care for future cancer patients. Ms. Lopata has since become an advocate for clinical trials and self-exams, she serves on the Advisory Board of Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education, Inc. (Georgia CORE), and she counsels new breast cancer patients through the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program.

Ms. Lopata began her career as a graphic designer after receiving a BA from the University of Georgia. Through her company, The Idea Aquarium, she and her team created and produced innovative print and online campaigns for a variety of businesses. After working with several technology clients, she found she enjoyed the sector and joined her favorite client as their Marketing Director. Ms. Lopata’s interest in technology and her passion for serving others have come together at TechBridge and in volunteering with industry organizations including serving as the Meeting Chair for Women in Technology (WIT), on the Technology Association of Georgia’s (TAG) Orientation Team, and as a Charter Board Member of the TAG Consulting Society.