Thomas Barker, or ‘Tab’ as he is commonly known, founded Project Schoolhouse in 2004. The ideology behind Project Schoolhouse’s approach to development comes from an Economics degree from Carleton College, further work in Argentina on a Fulbright Grant, followed by many years abroad traveling and studying. Always working to minimize outside impacts while leveraging local initiative and knowledge, Tab works to turn scarce resources into sustainable development projects.

Renata is the Development and Communications Coordinator for Project Schoolhouse. Renata was born and raised in Nicaragua and moved to Pittsburgh, PA with her family in 2006. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Allegheny College. Prior to Project Schoolhouse, she led Digital Marketing and Communications efforts for the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. She is committed to social justice and community service, as evidenced by her volunteer work in educational programs for under-served youth during her time as an undergraduate student. Renata is deeply committed to Project Schoolhouse’s mission and helping her home country of Nicaragua.