Philadelphia, PA. Lutheran Settlement House’s Board of Directors appointed Kate Hyzer, former Special Assistant to the Executive Director as the new Interim Executive Director. In this capacity, along with the Board of Directors, she will lead the organization until the search for a permanent executive director is completed.

Kate has been an essential part of the leadership team at LSH for the past six years, and she has the ability, drive, passion, and the know-how to guide the organization through this period of transition. Best of all, she'll do so with the good heart and keen sense of humor that led to her appointment. “The Board is delighted that Kate has agreed to take on the position of Interim Director of LSH,” said Elise Bruhl, President of the LSH Board.

Kate Hyzer was hired in 2002 as the Director of Community Education & Employment Department. Mrs. Hyzer has demonstrated a successful track record in creating innovative programs, proposal research and development, building relationships with funders, Board of Directors and Congregation relations, and advancement of best practices through professional organizations.

New President of the Board
LSH bids a fond farewell to Jean Biesecker, whose three year term as Board President ended on June 30, 2008 and welcomes Elise Bruhl, former Vice President of the Board as the new President of the Board. Elise has been a member of the Board of Directors for three years and was Chair of the Governance Committee in addition to being the Vice President. Elise is a very active supporter of LSH and can be found painting the walls of LSH’s Jane Addams Place Shelter, walking the streets of Chestnut Hill in support of the domestic violence awareness walk, or attending the annual Women of Courage Event. As President of the Board, Elise will lead the search for LSH’s next Executive Director.

Good Bye to Bia
It is with great pride and sadness that LSH wishes Beatriz Vieira good bye. Bia has worked at LSH for ten years, including two years as the director of the Bilingual Domestic Violence Project and eight years as the Executive Director. Under Bia’s leadership over 100,000 Philadelphians have received the support they need to achieve independence and remain self-sufficient. Bia’s passionate and client-centered approach to leadership has earned her the allegiance of her staff and board of directors.

Beatriz Vieira will become the Vice President of Community Impact at the Philadelphia Foundation, where she will continue to act as a mentor, champion, and innovator in Philadelphia’s nonprofit community.

For further information, please contactl Suzette Belz (Director of Marketing and Philanthropy) at 215-426-8610 x 208