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Acc Peter Tavernise
Executive Director, Cisco Foundation, Director, Corporate Affairs at Cicso
Peter Tavernise serves as the Executive Director of the Cisco Foundation and is also the Director of Corporate Affairs at Cisco. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and corporate funding, he plays a crucial role in driving Cisco's social impact initiatives, particularly in climate action and sustainability.
Professional Background
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Cisco Foundation Leadership: Tavernise has been instrumental in leading the Cisco Foundation's efforts, including a significant commitment of $100 million over ten years to combat climate change through technology-based solutions and community engagement.13 His focus includes supporting early-stage nonprofits that can scale sustainable solutions to address environmental challenges.4
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Corporate Affairs Role: In his capacity as Director of Corporate Affairs, he oversees community development initiatives, helping to empower global problem solvers and support innovative solutions that can be replicated and sustained.2 This role aligns with Cisco's broader goals of fostering inclusive growth and addressing critical societal issues through technology.
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Previous Experience: Before joining Cisco, Tavernise worked in various capacities within the nonprofit sector, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency for nonprofits. His journey began with a background in English and education fundraising before transitioning into corporate social responsibility.1
Community Engagement and Impact
Tavernise emphasizes the importance of community involvement in driving widespread change. Under his leadership, the Cisco Foundation has developed a venture philanthropy approach that not only funds projects but also builds the capacity of organizations to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.12
He is also involved with several boards, including the Giraffe Heroes Project and the Cisco South Africa Education Trust, showcasing his commitment to education and social equity.25
In summary, Peter Tavernise's leadership at Cisco combines his extensive experience in nonprofit management with a strong commitment to using technology for social good, particularly in addressing climate change and fostering community resilience.



