LifePath Executive and Leadership Team

Susan Leyburn, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at LifePath, directs the overarching mission to provide specialized support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Leyburn architects the long-term strategic vision, ensuring that residential programs and community support services maintain high standards of dignity and respect. By collaborating with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer aligns organizational goals with the evolving needs of families throughout Pennsylvania. Susan Leyburn monitors the efficacy of vocational services, driving initiatives that empower clients to lead fulfilling lives. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and securing the resources necessary for sustainable growth. Through consistent focus on operational excellence, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the market position of the organization. Ultimately, Leyburn ensures that every program reflects the core values of compassion and inclusivity, fostering a supportive environment for all individuals served by the non-profit.

Mary Horner, the Chief Financial Officer at LifePath, governs the fiscal health and long-term financial sustainability of the organization. Horner architects robust budgeting frameworks that support the delivery of residential and vocational services to individuals with intellectual disabilities. By managing capital allocation and grant funding, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources reach the most critical community support programs. Mary Horner analyzes financial performance data to provide actionable insights to the executive team, facilitating informed decision-making regarding future service expansions. This leadership role involves maintaining transparent reporting standards and ensuring compliance with non-profit financial regulations. Through meticulous oversight of the balance sheet, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates fiscal risks while maximizing the impact of every dollar spent. Horner drives the development of financial strategies that align with the broader mission of enhancing client quality of life. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the economic foundation necessary for the organization to continue serving families throughout Pennsylvania.

Susan Giachetti, the Chief Operating Officer at LifePath, manages the daily execution of residential and community-based programs across Pennsylvania. Giachetti optimizes service delivery models to ensure that individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities receive consistent, high-quality care. Overseeing the integration of vocational services and older adult support, the Chief Operating Officer maintains operational efficiency while adhering to strict regulatory standards. Susan Giachetti coordinates with department heads to streamline workflows, reducing administrative burdens and allowing staff to focus on client outcomes. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of service metrics to identify areas for improvement in regional operations. By implementing scalable processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the expansion of community support services. Giachetti drives the tactical implementation of organizational policies, ensuring that every facility operates with the highest level of integrity. Through rigorous oversight, the Chief Operating Officer guarantees that the mission remains central to all daily activities.

Karen Werkheiser, the Chief Human Resource Officer at LifePath, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Werkheiser architects comprehensive training programs that equip staff with the skills needed to provide compassionate, high-quality care in residential and vocational settings. By fostering a culture of dignity and respect, the Chief Human Resource Officer ensures that the organization attracts and retains dedicated professionals across Pennsylvania. Karen Werkheiser manages employee relations, performance management systems, and benefits administration to maintain high levels of staff engagement. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the operational needs of the non-profit, ensuring that teams remain adequately staffed to meet client demands. Through the implementation of effective recruitment and retention initiatives, the Chief Human Resource Officer strengthens the internal capacity of the organization. Werkheiser drives organizational development, ensuring that the workforce remains prepared to uphold the mission of providing meaningful support to all clients.