ROOT 2026 Board Updates
We're excited to share a few updates from the ROOTS board!
First, please join us in congratulating Toni Brown—known to many Shaw students as Mrs. Brown—on her new role as Board Secretary.
Toni has been part of the ROOTS community for many years. She first connected with our organization as a teacher who welcomed our Stop the Hate program into her classroom, and she has remained a passionate supporter ever since. Her firsthand experience as an educator brings an invaluable perspective to our board as we continue to navigate changes in education and look for meaningful ways to support teachers and serve students. We are grateful for her leadership, excited to have her in this new role, and look forward to the impact she'll continue to make.
We're also thrilled to welcome Hugh Tobin to the ROOTS Board of Directors.
If you've attended our Masters of American Music Series, Hugh is already a familiar face. During our recent executive transition, he was an invaluable partner, generously sharing his expertise in event planning, branding, marketing, and organizational strategy. His enthusiasm for ROOTS and belief in our mission have been evident every step of the way, and we're excited to officially welcome him to the board.
A Cleveland native, Hugh attended both Ohio State and Case Western Reserve University. He began his career in publishing before managing large trade shows across the country and later worked alongside local entrepreneurs in product development, branding, marketing, and insurance. While he jokes that no one would mistake him for a musician, Hugh brings the Irish gift of storytelling, using his wit and curiosity to connect with people. He lives in Cleveland Heights with his wife of more than 30 years and their 25-year-old twins.
When asked what excites him most about ROOTS, Hugh shared:
"Music is so powerful because it connects us as a community, but also offers us a way to communicate and move forward. I am truly inspired by ROOTS' work to educate, engage, and empower kids through music and storytelling. Watching the connection that forms between the kids and the musicians brings me great joy—and real optimism about what we can accomplish together."
Music has always been a central part of Hugh's life:
"I remember listening to my dad's Glenn Miller 8-tracks in the family station wagon and playing backgammon on the porch while my brother's Steely Dan albums played in the background. My favorite high school memories include countless trips to Blossom and catching I-tal on fake ID night at the Euclid Tavern. Today, we love spending our nights and weekends supporting local music venues and appreciating the incredibly talented musicians who call Northeast Ohio home."
Please join us in congratulating Toni on her new role and welcoming Hugh to the ROOTS Board of Directors. We are incredibly fortunate to have their experience, passion, and leadership in our corner, and we're excited for all that we'll accomplish together.