August 29, 2025 — The Hill School and Hobart’s Run are pleased to announce the appointment of Alyssa M. Slade as the new Executive Director of Community Engagement and Economic Development. Ms. Slade brings over a decade of strategic leadership experience in higher education, community engagement, and experiential learning. She will assume this new role on September 15.
Ms. Slade replaces Twila Fisher, the former executive director, who departed The Hill School in June to accept a position to serve as the economic development director for Ellsworth, Maine.
Most recently, in her role as Senior Director for the Holleran Center for Community & Global Engagement at Alvernia University, Ms. Slade oversaw eight major university programs and centers, including the Holleran Center, Reading Youth Initiative, and the Veterans Center. Her leadership in managing over $1 million in grant funding and cultivating impactful university-community partnerships has significantly advanced student development and institutional priorities. Her background also includes managing federal grant programs, coordinating student employment, and directing community outreach efforts.
“I am deeply honored to join The Hill School and Hobart’s Run community as the Executive Director of Community Engagement and Economic Development,” shares Ms. Slade. “Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to building bridges between educational institutions and the community. I look forward to leveraging my experience in community leadership and strategic partnerships to strengthen connections between Hill and the wider Pottstown community, advancing opportunities for students and local residents alike.”
Ms. Slade’s career reflects a deep commitment to equity, service, and community. She has led university-wide service initiatives involving over 1,000 participants annually, supported more than 25 academic service-learning courses, and developed strategic collaborations with organizations such as VoiceUp Berks and Bring the Change.
In addition to her administrative roles, Ms. Slade has served as an adjunct professor at Alvernia, mentoring students and teaching courses in public speaking and academic success. Her background also includes managing federal grant programs, coordinating student employment, and directing community outreach efforts.
Ms. Slade holds a M.A. in Community Leadership and a B.A. in Psychology, both from Alvernia University from which she graduated magna cum laude. She lives in Sinking Spring, Pa. with her family.
“Alyssa brings to The Hill and Pottstown communities extensive experience with and genuine passion for community engagement. She is incredibly well-suited to take on leadership of Hobart’s Run and to build on the exciting momentum that has already been generated,” says Kathleen Devaney, Head of The Hill School. “Alyssa has an outstanding track record as a positive and energetic collaborator, so we are incredibly excited to work together with her.”
Ms. Slade will lead the team that manages the Hobart’s Run initiative, which includes Cathy Skitko, Director of Hobart’s Run Communications and Community Partnerships and Director of Community Service, and Jacque Steinman, Administrative Coordinator.
The Hobart’s Run neighborhood initiative, a 501(c)(3), was launched by The Hill School in 2016 to create a clean and safe community; foster inclusivity; provide incentives for home ownership and property pride; and generate quality business development. While specifically focusing on a 900-parcel area, Hobart’s Run supports revitalization efforts throughout Pottstown.
