We enter 2020 with a sense of anticipation and excitement as we welcome in new leadership of our Board of Directors. Beginning in January, Barbara Parees, Allegheny County Deputy Manager, will begin her tenure as Chair and will be joined by Rebecca Matsco, Potter Township Supervisor, serving as Vice-Chair. Together with Treasurer Mike McCaig, Director, Municipal Finance RBC Capital Markets, LLC, and Secretary Kevin Smay, Assistant Vice President for Strategic Planning CCAC, the officers will lead a focused campaign to elevate our educational programming to address emerging issues facing local governments.

Many of you may not know, that the founders of the Academy sought leadership across a diverse spectrum of sectors and established a governing structure with unique membership requirements. Why? Because, even in 1983, to promote the message of “Excellence in Local Government,” they knew we would need experts in every field including municipal, county, state, academic, civic, private, business, and Council of Governments.

Over the past year, we have taken the proactive steps to develop a well-rounded, strong, and diverse Board of Directors. We enter 2020 with representation from Washington, Beaver, and Butler counties, which will help us wholistically meet regional educational needs. We also sought out technical expertise in the matters of infrastructure, law, and communications and have credentialed experts to help guide us in our programming and organizationally. Last, but not least, at the board’s direction to have a more representative and inclusive membership, we welcome members who are eager to share their unique perspectives across gender, race, and age.

Our “rookies” do not go at this alone and have our “veteran” members willing to share their knowledge and experiences. As we begin this new journey, we thank out-going President, Art Tintori (Green Tree Borough Council), for his leadership and commitment to the mission of Local Government Academy. We know that we can rely on his guidance as well as other loyal members who remain steadfast in their desire to serve local governments. Together, the new year and new perspectives on our board brings a sense of excitement about our future and a renewed sense of purpose to Promote Excellence in Local Government.

– Joy

See our list of current Board of Directors: