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MEET THE TEAM

HUNT was founded October 6, 2016 on Pier 2 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, overlooking the East River and Manhattan skyline. Our core values are the impossible is possible, imagine a better future, be donor centric, and holistic integrity.

HUNT is licensed, bonded and insured. We exceed the expectations of our clients in consultation and command generous financial commitments from donors by creating an exciting atmosphere of friendliness and good-will.

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LUCAS HUNT :

President

LUCAS HUNT is the president of HUNT Auctioneers and a celebrated American poet. He graduated from World Wide College of Auctioneering, has a Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designation from the National Auctioneer’s Association, and has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars and awareness for hundreds of non-profit organizations live and online. Lucas loves wearing velvet.

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ANNIE PHAOSAWASDI :

Creative Director

ANNIE PHAOSAWASDI is a Harvard graduate with rigorous training in design, landscape, and architecture. She is the team’s jack of all trades from business development, marketing and visuals, virtual and hybrid event expert, to bid spotter. She serves on the board of a non-profit that promotes design and environmental awareness through mentorship and outreach programs. She started her fundraising journey as the firm’s very own Vanna White.

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PAUL FLOREZ-TAYLOR :

Head Fundraising Host

PAUL FLOREZ-TAYLOR is a graduate of Worldwide College of Auctioneering. His affable and extroverted personality creates an authentic and exciting atmosphere—which has helped shatter fundraising goals at black-tie events. Paul is a widely published author, and has held sales and editorial positions at Marvel, Alyson Books, Hachette and HarperCollins. He enjoys fencing.

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JOE FORISH :

Fundraising Host

JOE FORISH was able to play sports and go to summer camp because of non-profit organizations. He has countless, joyful memories from these experiences.  Joe serves on the board of a non-profit that gives children the opportunity to experience teamwork, leadership, and 
nature through sports. He works with non-profits that give 
disadvantaged children a better opportunity to create lifelong memories.  

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RACHEL STERNLICHT :

Fundraising Host

RACHEL STERNLICHT is a New York transplant from a small New England fishing town. Her background spans both Renaissance dramaturgy and wealth management operations, with many archipelagos in between. She is passionate about nonprofit fundraising, especially in education and the arts, and approaches all causes in need with curiosity, compassion, and conviction. 

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RASHAD SMITH :

Fundraising Host

RASHAD SMITH is a Brooklyn native who recognizes the power of community and wants to share it with his generation. He serves as Vice President of his block association. Rashad’s community building has extended to non-profit work in Harlem. His fondest role was mentoring high school students on the intricacies of finance and entrepreneurship through the NASP-NY Fast Track program. 

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