Reach High: Stories of Leadership | Robin Stauffer

Robin Stauffer, Executive Director of High Foundation, has dedicated over 30 years of her career to the service-oriented vision of S. Dale High and the High family. Starting at the High companies as an accounting clerk, she has worn many hats—board liaison, executive committee member, corporate marketing and communications supervisor, to name a few.

So when the High family started strengthening and formalizing their philanthropic giving through the Foundation, Robin was a natural choice for the role of Executive Director, to aid the family in building a “bridge to opportunity.” Since 2005, Robin has led High Foundation with humility and grace, inspiring others through her servant leadership.

In 2022, it was announced that S. Dale High had transferred his shares of High Industries Inc. stock to High Foundation. What this means is that the Foundation receives the profits of the company and has even more resources to support organizations addressing the needs of the communities where the multi-state company does business— including Lancaster.

The Executive Director quotes the Foundation benefactor, saying “‘with all that we are given, whether in assets, influence, or opportunity, we’re accountable to and for others, serving and treating everyone with dignity and respect.’ That resonates deeply with me,” Robin said.

After years of diligent work and a commitment to personal development, Robin is honored to serve and carry out the mission of the organization that is poised for transformational impact.

“As I continue to move through the organization, I’m so grateful for the opportunities and the trust that the High family has placed in me,” she said. “My mantra has always been, ‘just give it your best effort, that’s all you can do.’ So I always try to give it my best, with integrity and authenticity.”

A significant key to Robin’s success is her lifelong commitment to learning. Years before taking on her current role, Robin completed her undergraduate degree while working full-time at High companies. Her hard work and continued service while in school prepared her for the unique demands of each position she filled, so that when the time came, she could lead with confidence. “It’s about being open to opportunities, having the courage to say ‘yes,’ and stepping forward,” she said.

Robin has built lasting relationships with other community leaders and continues to learn from their perspectives and diverse experiences so that she can lead from a place of understanding. With each milestone she shares from her career, she fondly mentions these relationships that have nurtured and inspired her to be a better leader.

“I look back to all the steps my career path has taken, and the people that were a part of those early years, when I connect with them today, we’re instant friends, and those relationships are rekindled instantly, and I’m so grateful for that,” she said.

Robin has dedicated her life to service, and she hopes her story encourages others to use their gifts to impact their communities.

The Reach High series is introduces you to business and nonprofit leaders who are thoughtfully innovating with a spirit of servant leadership. Brought to you by High Foundation, you can find out more about their mission to be a Bridge to Opportunity for the Lancaster community at highfoundation.org.