Bayer Center - Classes & Events

Belle Battista’s passion for audio production began years ago but it wasn’t until after she worked in nonprofit community youth programs and alongside Commonplace Coffee for the last 15 years that she rediscovered her passion for audio storytelling. Mentored in the craft for the last few years, she now finds fulfillment in editing podcasts—transforming creative work into polished, engaging stories. Whether fine-tuning audio or connecting people through storytelling, she’s energized by helping others share their voices and make an impact through the power of podcasting.

Don Block served as executive director of Literacy Pittsburgh (formerly Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) – the largest provider of adult basic education in Pennsylvania – for 34 years. Working closely with the board of directors, he built the organization from its founding stage to the large nonprofit that it is today. He became a specialist in nonprofit management, including board development, board operations, and fundraising. Since 2013, he has taught a number of classes for the Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management, including “How to Manage Volunteers,” “Diversifying Your Funding Sources,” “The Board’s Report Card,” and “Boards and Fundraising.”

Stacy Bodow is the Outreach and Engagement Manager for Global Links, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit dedicated to improving health in communities with need. Stacy heads up education and engagement efforts for the organization, working on corporate partnerships, and with community groups, schools, and volunteers. Prior to joining the Global Links team, Stacy spent 15 years with Visions Service Adventures leading month-long international service learning programs for groups of teenagers, helping to forge community partnerships and leading leader trainings. Stacy holds her M.Ed. from University of Pittsburgh in social and comparative analysis in education.

Wendy Burtner is a nonprofit leader, trusted advisor and consultant with 30 years’ experience leading organizations through transitions and building strong foundations for growth. She is the “nuts and bolts” of Nonprofit SideKick, with a wide range of experience across the nonprofit sector, including leadership roles in corporate philanthropy, arts administration, health and human services, and economic and workforce development. She was a member of the startup team at GuideStar (now Candid), the founding director of The CarMax Corporate Foundation, and the operations lead of the Early Childhood Initiative of the United Way of Allegheny County. She has been a coach, advisor and consultant to nonprofits and small businesses for more than 5 years. Specifics of Wendy’s professional experience can be found on LinkedIn.

Tiffany Castagno is CEO & Founder of CEPHR, LLC, a human resource consulting firm based in Pittsburgh that supports small to mid-sized businesses to build strong infrastructures, employer brands, and cultures. She is passionate about creating equitable workplaces and communities. Tiffany is co-author of a children’s book, “Can a Zebra Change Its Stripes?” that teaches children about embracing difference and uncovers the importance of acceptance and what it means to make diversity our strength. Tiffany was recently presented with a Jefferson Award for her volunteerism, leadership, and service to community.

Megan Cramer is dedicated to using her knowledge and experience to make an impact. She started her career at Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank over 12 years ago. During her tenure, she’s built a comprehensive direct response program that has seen unprecedented growth in the last five years. In her current role, Megan oversees all aspects of the Philanthropy Team’s operational functions: data management, gift processing, communications, stewardship, and annual giving. Using data-informed strategies, Megan helps the team raise over $23M in revenue annually. Megan resides in Lawrenceville with her husband Chuck and two cats, Mabel and Ellie.

Brant Duda is director of strategy and analysis for Strategy Design Partners, with expertise in strategic planning, financial analysis, nonprofit governance, board development, and research. From helping to transform the social service system in Columbia, South Carolina to managing a coalition combating the opioid epidemic in Lorain County, Ohio to forming the first Center for the Arts in Oberlin, Ohio, Brant has worked on large-scale projects and with organizations that impact entire communities. Brant has a masters of social administration and certificate in nonprofit management from Case Western Reserve University. He earned his bachelor’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania.

Kevin Erdner stands at the nexus of his two greatest passions and fascinations: leadership and innovation. With 20+ years of product and team development experience, Kevin currently finds his purpose operating within the healthcare industry, traveling the world to build leading innovations that make a positive difference in patients’ lives. Kevin has studied and performed improvisational comedy throughout Pittsburgh, and has applied improvisational comedy techniques in various programs including those designed to build confidence in upcoming high school students. Kevin received his B.S. in business administration with an emphasis in information technology from Duquesne University, where he returned to obtain a master’s of organizational leadership (summa cum laude).

Jeremy V. Farrell, Esq. is a trial lawyer who helps employers with the many legal issues they encounter in the workplace. In addition to representing them in court and before administrative agencies, he assists them with the day-to-day legalities of managing a workplace, including complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Family Medical Leave Act; reviewing pay practices; preventing and investigating discrimination and harassment claims; drafting non-compete, nonsolicitation, and confidentiality agreements; revising employee handbooks and workplace policies; handling claims for unemployment compensation; and offering guidance on personnel matters, such as terminations and other disciplinary issues.

Brett Fulesday has spent over 20 years providing business-valuation services for individuals as well as public and privately held, early-stage and mature companies. Approximately 10 years ago, feeling disconnected from the community, Brett joined a local Rotary Club. He has prioritized nonprofit service since, with roles ranging from sounding board to board chair (twice), and accumulating experiences on and insights into various committees – particularly, finance and governance. He is here to help and to learn.

Jess Grainger has a deep background in education, workforce development, philanthropy and nonprofit management. Most recently, he was a program officer at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and served as a consultant to the Annie E Casey Foundation in Baltimore. He has also collaborated with local organizations like Partner4Work around their youth-focused initiatives. He is deeply committed to helping mission-oriented organizations understand the philanthropic landscape. This includes helping nonprofits pursue funding strategically and effectively, while also planning for long-term financial
stability. He would love to learn more about your organization’s strategy and goals.

Phyllis G. Hartman, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, is founder and President of PGHR Consulting, Inc. with 30+ years’ experience in HR. She is a member of the SHRM Expert Panel and a member of the Government Advocacy Team. She has an M.S. in human resource management from La Roche University and is a certified Senior Professional in HR. Phyllis has written numerous articles and three books, “A Manager’s Guide to Developing Competencies in HR Staff,” “Looking to Hire an HR Leader?” and “Never Get Lost Again: Navigating Your HR Career.” She is a past Board of Trustee member for the Homeless Children’s Education Fund.

Lizz Helmsen, Managing Director at Carter, combines 20 years of fundraising experience with a background in the arts, education, and community service. She is known as a creative and energetic professional with a proven ability to build relationships with, and create connections among multiple constituencies. Lizz has directed comprehensive fundraising programs and provides expertise in the areas of campaign counsel, major gifts, development planning, governance, annual giving and grant making.

Jared Henigin, CFP®, AIF® joined Wealth Management Partners in November of 2018. Prior to joining WMP, Jared was a financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual. Jared is a registered representative and Investment Advisor Representative with Commonwealth Financial Services® (Member FINRA/SIPC). In addition, Jared holds the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) designation and maintains the Series 6, 7, 63, and 65 securities registrations. He works with WMP in a dual role as Director of Investment Services and as a Wealth Manager. He also works with nonprofit organizations providing fiduciary consulting as well as asset management. Jared lives in Latrobe with his wife, Cady, and their son, Jack. He is board president for the local chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

Jon Hoffmann is the principal of Hoffmann Consulting, serving both nonprofit and for-profit clients with a focus on strategic planning, program design and evaluation, and operations management. Prior to launching his own consulting business, his career has spanned executive leadership roles in social services, communications strategy for an advocacy organization, and housing development with a focus on affordability. A Pittsburgh native, Jon holds a master’s degree in social work and Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh.

Emma Kieran started Pilot Peak Consulting in 2014 and has over 20 years of fundraising experience. She has worked with over 150 nonprofits on a broad range of projects. Prior to founding Pilot Peak Consulting, Emma was a consultant for two national consulting firms, as well as a frontline fundraiser. Emma holds an M.A. from Columbia University, M.P.A. from American University, and a B.A. from Connecticut College. A native Pittsburgher and recent southern transplant, Emma is an avid marathoner, four-time Ironman triathlete, and enjoys being outside with her husband and labradoodles.

Jessica Kovacs, a passionate and experienced HR professional at Bridge to HR, specializes in helpingleaders navigate the complexities of human resources with a proactive and empathetic approach. With a bachelor of science in labor and industrial relations and a master’s degree in human resources from Pennsylvania State University, she brings over 19 years of expertise in human resources guidance, coaching, and consulting. Jessica’s proactive approach keeps her ahead of new and changing laws, social changes, and industry challenges, ensuring leaders always compliant and prepared.

Dawn Lehman is a trainer, facilitator and coach who helps people and organizations to live in alignment with their ideals. Dawn is a long-time practitioner of both restorative justice and mindfulness and brings these foundations to her work with Collective Change Partners. Dawn holds a B.A. in social work, a M.A. in conflict transformation, and a professional certificate in coaching.

Cindy Leonard has cultivated an extensive career spanning more than two decades, spanning nonprofit board memberships, executive roles, and consulting. Cindy’s diverse roles include executive director, IT director, trainer, volunteer, and consultant, informed by three decades of experience and knowledge. Cindy is a skilled speaker and trainer, with over 100 appearances at conferences. Cindy holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science, an M.B.A., and a Master of Education from Seton Hill University. A Laurel Highlands enthusiast, Cindy resides in Youngwood, PA, with husband, Rob, and their dogs and cats. Learn more at www.cindyleonardconsulting.com.

Andrea L. Lowe, MPH, CPH owns and operates the Social Impact Studio Consulting, LLC where she flexes her entrepreneurial muscles in service to small-to-medium nonprofits and state/local government agencies. Her 15-year health and human services career spans multiple states working with government agencies, nonprofits, and the private sector on strategic planning, policy, advocacy, coalition management and program development initiatives. In addition to running her consulting business, she is currently pursuing her DrPH in health policy & leadership with Loma Linda University. Here, she studies the impact of leadership and structure on the organizational culture of collective impact initiatives.

Rebecca L. Lucore is a purpose-driven leader who founded RLucore Consulting in May of 2024 after nearly three decades of creating and leading corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and communications programs that drive organizational goals, engage employees, and meet community needs. She has worked in various capacities over the years, including – communications; philanthropy leadership; corporate social responsibility; employee engagement; diversity, equity and inclusion; executive support; sustainability; nonprofit service; STEM and workforce development; and community programs/ events. Rebecca has served on numerous nonprofit and university boards, both local and national.

Mark Lynch, Carter, has more than 30 years of experience in fundraising, communications, marketing and branding, and organizational development for nonprofit organizations, including fundraising consulting through Ketchum, Inc., and A.L. Brourman Associates, Inc. He is a registered fundraising consultant in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Mark is active in the community, currently serving on the Community Advisory Board of the Allegheny Regional Asset District, and has served on many other committees and boards for nonprofit organizations including Support Inc. and the Sewickley YMCA. He is a graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh, Class XIII.

Jenny Marofsky, is a compassionate marketing consultant who uses data to fuel her creative energy. Beginning as a graphic designer, she has spent years bringing designs to life and fell in love with helping businesses and nonprofits develop marketing strategies. She is always asking questions to get a deeper understanding of her clients’ goals to curate the best marketing campaigns. Her business, Agency Jen, is the culmination of her life’s work. From creating multi-channel marketing campaigns to maximizing brand exposure, Jen lives to deconstruct your business so she can rebuild your marketing to your unique specifications, matching your customers’ needs as well as your internal capacity. She calls it “growing smart.”

Stephanie Masters is co-founder and partner at Nonprofit SideKick and a certified CliftonStrengths™ and Predictive Index™ Coach. She is the “heart and soul” of Nonprofit SideKick, with 25 years’ experience focusing on organizational development and leadership. She has worked within nonprofit organizations in human services, economic renewal, historic preservation and education. Stephanie has created and led leadership development initiatives with large corporations and small to midsize nonprofits. For the past 11 years, Stephanie has been the leadership facilitator for Leadership Washington County, a community-based leadership program. She has actively coached and developed over 300 leaders through the program. Specifics of Stephanie’s professional experience can be found on LinkedIn.

Sandra Marsh-McClain is a seasoned professional with 20+ years of speaking experience. Currently a Senior Learning Specialist with UPMC, Sandra develops learning opportunities for new and aspiring leaders and staff across the system. Previously, Sandra held roles as a senior program manager in workforce development as well as a staff development specialist in higher education. Sandra holds a Master of Science in human resources management in organizational learning, development and change management and is a certified strategic human resources business partner through Human Capital Institute.

Liz McFarlin-Marciak has held leadership roles in higher education, museum, and human services philanthropy for the past decade. A passionate advocate of relationship-based fundraising, she fosters team cultures that support highly effective, community-oriented fundraisers, enabling them to raise millions of dollars annually. In her role at Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Liz oversees strategic giving and guides a team of gift officers who connect individuals, families, and family foundations to philanthropic opportunities that help create lasting solutions to hunger and its root causes in southwestern Pennsylvania. Liz resides in Forest Hills with her husband Matt and two kids, Liliana and Filip.

Sarah McMullen, M.B.A., is an ESC volunteer and Director of the Project Management Office for University Communications and Marketing at the University of Pittsburgh. She has worked for Pittsburgh nonprofits and education organizations for over 20 years in program and resource development, project management, volunteer management, event management, marketing, process improvement and optimization, CRM systems, and strategic partnerships. Sarah holds a B.A. from Westminster College and an M.B.A. in nonprofit management from Marylhurst University. She is board secretary for the North Hills Art Center and board chair and development/ fundraising committee chair for the Institute for Equity-Centered Leadership. She is a fiber artist and participates in independent shows and community based fiber art projects.

Chris Mielo is the Communications Manager at Achieva, where he develops content to share the important work Achieva does in the community for families and people with disabilities, and manages their three brands across 12 social media channels. He has developed videos for the North Side Steelers Youth Athletic Association, The Pittsburgh Steelwheelers, DON Services, Pennsylvania’s Technical Training Assistance Network (PaTTAN), PA’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, and done player photos for The Miracle League through Pittsburgh Pirates Charities. He has a B.A. in media arts from Robert Morris University’s TV/ Video Production program.

Molly Minman is a current Ph.D. candidate at Gannon University studying Organizational Learning and Leadership. She received her MPA from Gannon, and her BA in Communication from Robert Morris University. Her experience in the nonprofit sector has focused on development, social services, and grant management. She currently works as an adjunct lecturer at Gannon, in addition to assisting small nonprofits in rural areas of Western PA with grants and development. She is a wife, and a proud mom to three boys 5 and under.

Susan Alexander Ott, Esq. is tax attorney, specializing in tax-exempt, health, estates and trusts and transactional law, at Owen Law Group, LLC with a strong background in nonprofit health administration and development. Susan holds M.P.H. and B.S. degrees from the University of Pittsburgh and a J.D. from Duquesne University School of Law. A member of the Pittsburgh Planned Giving Council and board member of the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra, she is a member of the Pennsylvania, Allegheny and Westmoreland Bar Associations and is the former President of the ACBA Health Law Section. Susan teaches will writing at Allegheny County Community College and Health Law at the University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg.

Dr. Jo Ellen Parker is a former college president and museum executive with extensive fundraising experience. As President and CEO of Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, she oversaw the successful campaign to expand the Carnegie Science Center. A long-time educator, she loves sharing information to help nonprofit leaders and their organizations thrive.

Melanie Rutan works with a wide variety of nonprofit clients at Bookminders, where she serves as an accountant and trainer. She received her B.S. in business administration with an emphasis in accounting from West Virginia State College in 1988 (Summa Cum Laude). Melanie was an Examiner-InCharge with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) for 11 years before joining Bookminders in 2001.

Jaime Simmons is Associate Director for The Covestro Center for Community Engagement at Robert Morris University. For over 25 years, she has aided in building sustainable and vibrant nonprofit organizations as a leader, front-line team member, consultant, and board member. Her interests vary, but right now is focused on nonprofit organizational development, feminist and other alternative organizational structures, and investigating how people have used nonprofits in placemaking and social movements. She loves teaching and talking about nonprofits and is an adjunct at several colleges. She has earned a M.A. in socially responsible business, M.A. in organizational design and systems and is a doctoral candidate in community engagement.

Doug Smith is the Assistant Executive Director at Light of Life Rescue Mission, which brings hope and healing to men, women, and families experiencing homelessness, poverty, and addiction. He’s also the Founder of L3 Leadership, a leadership development organization that connects and develops leaders through podcasts, coaching, mastermind groups, and the L3 One Day Leadership Conference. An entrepreneur, speaker, coach, and sought-after leadership advisor, he hosts the L3 Leadership weekly podcast where he has interviewed world-class leaders. Doug earned a degree in business administration from Robert Morris University and finds his greatest joy at home with his wife, Laura, and their four children.

Chris Thyberg understands the challenge of leading effectively in complexity and how vital it is for leaders to have a partner in their professional and personal growth. After 30+ years in leadership at Carnegie Mellon, Penn State and a global nonprofit, Chris now offers executive coaching to emerging and experienced leaders in all sectors. Since 1987, Chris and his family have lived in East Liberty, shared in its gains and losses, and take hope from rising community leaders. To serve the common good fuels his passion to support purpose-minded leaders who empower and sustain resilient organizations committed to our shared flourishing. You can find Chris on LinkedIn.

Dave Tinker, CFRE, FAFP is Vice President of Advancement at ACHIEVA and an adjunct professor of informatics at Muskingum University’s Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology program. A certified Association of Fundraising Professionals Master Trainer, he was honored by AFP International as one of the first six Distinguished Fellows. Dave received an M.P.A. with a concentration in nonprofit management from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. He received a B.A. in chemistry and English and an Master of Information Strategy, Systems and Technology from
Muskingum University. He is also a graduate of Leadership Works – Indianapolis, Class III.

Dr. Karen Trichtinger is a Ph.D.-level Industrial/ Organizational Psychologist, a senior professional in human resources, and a Certified Professional Coach. The has three decades of experience in various Organizational Development capacities helping organizations operate as efficiently and effectively as possible. With a passion for learning, Karen continually seeks ways to develop and grow. Her goal is to help as many people as possible achieve success, flow and happiness.

Megan Troxell, Partner, A&A Services Group has over 16 years’ experience in public accounting, specializing in audit and accounting services for nonprofit organizations. She serves as board vice chair for George Junior Republic, treasurer for Family Guidance, and treasurer for Community Bible Study – Pittsburgh West. She is an active volunteer with her church and children’s school, and a member of the 2022 Cohort of the Pittsburgh Foundation’s New Philanthropic Leaders program. A valued coach and role model for developing CPAs at GYF, Megan serves as Business Mentor through Pittsburgh Fellows. She is an active member of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs, and was named as one of their “Women to Watch” in 2020.

Derek Vent directs a team of project managers and analysts and is effective at developing relationships and influencing the delivery of transformational initiatives. As a trusted advisor, he provides tactical insights, proper sequencing of key initiatives, and mentor teams to deliver results. Derek is experienced in leading collaboration and executing on objectives with teams located in multiple locations and remotely.

Sara Walters is an assistant director and therapist for the RMU Counseling Center. She is a licensed professional counselor and a national certified counselor. Sarah is credentialed as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, as well as being a fully trained EMDR therapist. Prior to her career as a therapist, Sarah served as the Executive Director for Breakthrough Pittsburgh, an educational nonprofit. Sarah has a Master of Arts in conflict resolution and peace studies from Duquesne University and a Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling from California University of Pennsylvania, now PennWest California.

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