Tiffany M. Boyle
36, Commissioner of the Revenue with the City of Newport News, Newport News
Business and Civic Involvement:
Virginia College Building Authority Board Member; Virginia Peninsula Foodbank Board of Directors Member; Hampton Roads Commissioner of the Revenue Association Chair/President; Virginia Wesleyan University President’s Council Member; Access Virginia Board of Directors Vice President; Virginia Commissioner of the Revenue Political Action Committee Treasurer; Newport News NAACP Youth Committee Chair
What is something that makes you stand out professionally?
We have created opportunities to prioritize engagement with our taxpayers through frequent televised and radio public service announcements and the following programs. Our Tax Information Preparing Seniors (TIPS) forums addresses tax relief for our senior citizens. The Commissioners & Cans Food and Fund Drive garners the support of nearly two dozen other Commissioners, raising food and funds for all seven of Virginia’s food banks. These, along with our Labor, Education, Entrepreneurship and Diversity (LEED) tours, where we hear directly from the economic leaders that drive our local economy, are just three of our hallmark programs that keep us in touch with taxpayers throughout the year.
Who or what keeps you motivated or inspires you?
Showing my daughter that she, too, can be a trailblazer that creates new avenues for positive impact and influence.
Tell us about an accomplishment that you’re proud of.
The annual statewide Commissioners & Cans Food and Fund Drive has been timely during the coronavirus pandemic and last year’s government shutdown when a lot of Virginians were out of work. The initiative has become a partnership between the Commissioners of the Revenue Association of Virginia and the Federation of Virginia Food Banks. It is the only food drive of its kind and the newest statewide effort in Virginia.
How do you feel your industry can best respond to the effects of COVID-19?
Our industry has been extremely responsive and collaborated through the Commissioner of the Revenue Association of Virginia. We have all discussed what each of our offices are doing for our employees, for our fellow citizens and for business owners. Each locality has a different culture, but overall, we are all willing to work with our local governing body and do what is best for our constituents. As Chair of the Hampton Roads Commissioner of the Revenue Association, we will be exploring avenues to keep our constituents informed of the tax changes in regards to deadlines and processes.
What new idea or development are you excited about in Coastal Virginia?
Virginia’s Minority Business Commission is the first in the Commonwealth and the first of its kind in the country. My office spearheaded the collaborative effort with the Richmond Minority Business Office, Virginia Beach Minority Business Council, Asian American Chamber and others. From conversation to legislation to its inclusion as a budget item, the work started right here in Coastal Virginia.
What’s the most important aspect you look for in a workplace?
Culture. Within the culture of a workplace there is teamwork, a desire to do great, intuition and innovation.
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current position?
Prior to becoming Commissioner of the Revenue, I had launched a business lifestyle magazine named Emerge which found itself on an upward trajectory. Communicating the changes and progress that happen in our business community was and still is a priority for me.
What’s your favorite spot to relax in Coastal Virginia?
On a paddle boat in Newport News Park.
