Allegheny Intermediate Unit Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Allegheny Intermediate Unit has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to educational advancement, Allegheny Intermediate Unit provides specialized services to 42 suburban public school districts and five vocational and technical schools, fostering innovation and support across the region.

Leadership Roles at Allegheny Intermediate Unit

  • Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer - Kara Lowmaster
  • President & Board of Directors - Philip Little
  • Chief Technology Officer - Richard Platts
  • Chief Finance & Operations Officer - Joseph Lucarelli
  • Kara Lowmaster - Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer

    Kara Lowmaster, the Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer at Allegheny Intermediate Unit, manages the comprehensive financial health and operational treasury functions. Overseeing all fiscal planning, budgeting, and financial reporting, Lowmaster ensures the sustainable allocation of resources to support the AIU's educational mission across Allegheny County. This critical role involves safeguarding financial assets, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders. The Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to strategic financial forecasting and risk management, ensuring the organization's long-term viability and capacity to deliver specialized education services. By meticulously managing financial operations, Kara Lowmaster directly supports the operational integrity and strategic growth of the institution.
    Kara Lowmaster

    Philip Little - President & Board of Directors

    Philip Little, the President & Board of Directors at Allegheny Intermediate Unit, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire organization. Guiding the Board of Directors, Little ensures adherence to the institution's mission of delivering specialized education services to public school districts and vocational schools in Allegheny County. This pivotal role involves setting the overarching vision, approving major policies, and fostering a culture of educational excellence and innovation. The President & Board of Directors' responsibilities include representing the AIU to external stakeholders, overseeing governance structures, and ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational integrity. By championing strategic initiatives, Philip Little directs the organization's efforts to enhance educational outcomes and support the evolving needs of the community's educational institutions.

    Richard Platts - Chief Technology Officer

    Richard Platts, the Chief Technology Officer at Allegheny Intermediate Unit, directs the strategic implementation and management of all technology initiatives. Overseeing the integration of advanced technological solutions, Platts ensures that educational institutions within the AIU's network receive robust and modern digital infrastructure. This leadership involves architecting scalable systems that support diverse learning environments and administrative functions across Pennsylvania. By driving innovation in educational technology, Platts enhances the delivery of specialized services, enabling school districts to leverage digital tools for improved student outcomes and operational efficiency. The Chief Technology Officer's purview includes cybersecurity, data management, and the adoption of emerging technologies to maintain AIU's position at the forefront of educational technology services.

    Joseph Lucarelli - Chief Finance & Operations Officer

    Joseph Lucarelli, the Chief Finance & Operations Officer at Allegheny Intermediate Unit, spearheads the integration of financial strategy with operational execution. Overseeing the day-to-day administrative functions and financial management, Lucarelli ensures seamless delivery of services to the 42 suburban public school districts and five vocational and technical schools. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation, streamlining operational processes, and enhancing efficiency across all departments. The Chief Finance & Operations Officer's scope includes managing facilities, procurement, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. By aligning financial planning with operational needs, Joseph Lucarelli drives the effective and efficient provision of specialized education services, directly impacting the AIU's ability to support educational advancement throughout the region.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Allegheny Intermediate Unit Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Allegheny Intermediate Unit?
    Allegheny Intermediate Unit is led by Kara Lowmaster (Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Philip Little (President & Board of Directors) and Richard Platts (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s executive team?
    The executive team of Allegheny Intermediate Unit includes leaders such as Kara Lowmaster (Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer), Philip Little (President & Board of Directors), Richard Platts (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Allegheny Intermediate Unit have?
    Allegheny Intermediate Unit has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Allegheny Intermediate Unit includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer, President & Board of Directors, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Finance & Operations Officer.