Patricia “Tish” Mogan: A woman who, for most of her 21 years as PANO’s first-ever Standards for Excellence Director, needed no introduction – mainly because she was so excited to spread the “gospel of Standards” that her name simply became synonymous with PANO. In fact, she was often mistaken for PANO’s Executive Director (which the actual Executive Director was perfectly happy to let people believe, as Tish always did the organization proud). Over the years, Tish earned many a nickname for herself, from “walking encyclopedia of nonprofit know-how” and “Fairy Godmother of the Standards” to “Grandmother of PANO.” Though Tish officially retired from PANO in 2022, many continue to name her as the reason they first joined or remain members. Tish died in October at the age of 78. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no service. You can read more about The Impressive Life of Tish Mogan in this write-up from her sister.
PANO would not be the PANO that we know today without the depth of compassion and commitment she brought – mentoring fellow staff members and spreading her love and joy around the state. As a trainer, facilitator, consultant, and nonprofit help desk manager, Tish brought her whip-smart intellect and humor to every situation and befriended every person she engaged with.
In 2001, working closely with the national Standards for Excellence Institute, Tish launched the Standards for Excellence program in Pennsylvania. She built it from the ground up, traveling to communities all over the state to share her deep knowledge of ethical nonprofit practice.
She embodied the best of what personal connection brings to everyday work, and her loss is felt deeply by many across Pennsylvania and beyond.
If you knew and loved Tish, we hope you’ll share a memory on the Tribute Wall below. Please click “Go to Board” to add a post (and photo or video) of your own.