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 strategic vision for residential and vocational programs, ensuring alignment with the non-profit commitment to dignity and respect. By coordinating with the Board and senior leadership, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards of care across all Pennsylvania service locations. Susan Leyburn monitors the efficacy of community support services, driving organizational growth while addressing the complex needs of families and individuals. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of service delivery models to enhance client quality of life. Through rigorous oversight of operational outcomes, the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term sustainability of the organization, ultimately fostering an environment where every client achieves a fulfilling and meaningful life within the community.

Mary Horner, the Chief Financial Officer at LifePath, governs the fiscal health and resource allocation for the organization. Horner manages the complex budgetary requirements associated with residential programs and vocational services, ensuring that financial stability supports the long-term mission of serving individuals with developmental disabilities. By overseeing financial reporting and audit processes, the Chief Financial Officer provides the transparency necessary for sustainable growth across Pennsylvania. Mary Horner collaborates with the executive team to align funding with strategic priorities, ensuring that community support services receive adequate investment. This leadership role involves managing diverse revenue streams and optimizing cost structures to maximize the impact of every dollar spent on client care. Through prudent fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the resources required to maintain high-quality facilities. Horner drives financial accountability, ensuring that the organization remains a reliable partner for families seeking specialized support.

Susan Giachetti, the Chief Operating Officer at LifePath, manages the daily execution of residential and community support programs. Giachetti optimizes internal workflows to ensure that service delivery remains consistent with the organizational mission of supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Overseeing regional operations, the Chief Operating Officer implements scalable processes that improve the quality of life for clients throughout Pennsylvania. Susan Giachetti collaborates with department heads to streamline vocational services, ensuring that resources reach those in need efficiently. This role requires constant monitoring of program performance metrics to maintain compliance and excellence in care. By refining operational logistics, the Chief Operating Officer directly impacts the ability of the organization to serve more families effectively. Giachetti drives continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring that every residential facility operates with the highest level of dignity and respect for all residents.

Kaj Karch, the Board President at LifePath, guides the governance framework and strategic direction of the non-profit. Karch facilitates high-level decision-making processes, ensuring that the Board remains focused on the core mission of enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By overseeing board activities, the Board President maintains alignment between organizational goals and the needs of the Pennsylvania community. Kaj Karch provides essential oversight for major policy initiatives, ensuring that the organization adheres to its values of dignity and respect. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring that the executive team receives the necessary support to execute the strategic plan. Through effective governance, the Board President ensures that the organization remains resilient and responsive to the evolving requirements of families. Karch drives long-term vision, securing the future of the organization as a leader in specialized support services.

John Ehresman, the Board President at LifePath, leads the oversight of organizational compliance and ethical standards. Ehresman focuses on the expansion of community support services, ensuring that the Board provides the necessary resources to reach more individuals with developmental disabilities across Pennsylvania. By chairing board meetings and coordinating committee efforts, the Board President ensures that all strategic initiatives reflect the commitment to client-centered care. John Ehresman monitors the performance of the executive leadership team, providing guidance on operational challenges and long-term sustainability. This role involves balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders while maintaining the integrity of the non-profit mission. Through active engagement with the community, the Board President identifies opportunities for growth and service enhancement. Ehresman drives the development of policies that protect the dignity of clients, ensuring that the organization continues to provide meaningful support to families in need.

Karen Werkheiser, the Chief Human Resource Officer at LifePath, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for high-quality care. Werkheiser manages the recruitment of specialized staff capable of supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. By overseeing employee training programs, the Chief Human Resource Officer ensures that all personnel uphold the organizational values of dignity and respect. Karen Werkheiser fosters a culture of professional excellence, driving initiatives that improve staff retention and operational efficiency across Pennsylvania. This leadership role involves managing complex labor relations and ensuring that the workforce remains aligned with the evolving needs of the clients. Through strategic human capital management, the Chief Human Resource Officer supports the overall mission by ensuring that the right people are in the right roles. Werkheiser drives organizational health, ensuring that the team remains motivated and equipped to provide exceptional support to families.