NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary-Pat Ward as the organization’s new Chief Operating Officer.
In this leadership role, Ward will oversee the organization’s day-to-day operations and work closely with staff and leadership to advance NeighborWorks strategic priorities, housing initiatives and community development efforts throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. The position was previously held by current President & CEO, Shane Powers, who was promoted to lead the organization in 2024.
“Mary-Pat will be a tremendous addition to our team,” said Shane Powers, President & CEO of NeighborWorks. “Mary-Pat joins NeighborWorks with nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit and public service, and brings passion, empathy and a deep understanding of our mission. I am so excited about the addition of Mary-Pat to our team and cannot wait for her to begin her journey with us.”
Ward brings more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, communications, fundraising, community engagement and public administration. She most recently served as Director of Development and Communications for Friends of the Poor and Catherine McAuley Center: A Partnership for the Common Good, in Scranton, where she was a key member of the executive management team and led fundraising, communications, outreach, volunteer engagement and strategic initiatives.
Prior to her nonprofit leadership work, Ward served as Executive Director and Deputy Director of the City of Scranton’s Office of Economic and Community Development. In that role, she oversaw HUD-funded programs including Community Development Block Grants, Emergency Solutions Grants and the HOME Investment Partnership Program, while coordinating economic development initiatives and partnerships throughout the city.
Her professional background also includes nearly a decade with the Barbara J. Hart Justice Center, where she provided legal advocacy and operational support for women and families across northeastern Pennsylvania.
In addition to her professional experience, Ward has been actively involved in community and nonprofit leadership throughout the region. She had served on the NeighborWorks Board of Directors since 2022 and on the organization’s Excellence in Governance Executive Committee. Her community involvement has also included leadership and volunteer roles with organizations focused on philanthropy, housing, arts and culture, and regional development.
“I am honored to join the team at NeighborWorks and to continue building on the organization's commitment to strengthening our community through safe and affordable housing, and revitalized neighborhoods,” said Ward. “Throughout my work in crisis response, government and community support, I have seen how housing and neighborhoods impact every aspect of a person's well-being. I am excited to work alongside our partners and neighbors to ensure that people across all stages of life have the support they need to thrive.”
Ward holds a Specialized Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies from the McCann School of Business and Technology, where she graduated salutatorian and summa cum laude. She has also completed nonprofit leadership training through the University of Scranton’s Kania School of Management and is currently pursuing an Executive Leadership Certificate through Cornell SC Johnson College of Business.
NeighborWorks is excited to welcome Ward to the leadership team as NeighborWorks continues its mission of strengthening neighborhoods, expanding housing opportunities and building thriving communities throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
