Fall Newsletter: Liza Manchester, Program Director

Late in July, I joined the staff at the Mary Lyon Foundation. The team had just moved into a new office space at Mohawk Trail Regional School the week before, yet they were ready to welcome me with open arms — and put me to work right away!

During my first week, I had the chance to support a local non-profit by purchasing school supplies for their Back-to-School Party, deliver donated literacy bundles to BSE for incoming PreK students, drop off donated musical instruments at Hawlemont, start planning the annual Resource Fair at Mohawk, and connect with the families and volunteers involved in our food delivery program. By the end of the week, I was both tired and energized. Most of all, I felt profoundly grateful to be part of the vibrant, caring, and resourceful community that is the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont Regional School Districts.

I am thrilled to serve as the Foundation’s first Program Director. With more than 15 years of experience in PreK–12 and higher education, I’ve worked with families, students, and educators across Massachusetts and Rhode Island — supporting teachers and administrators to earn their state license, providing academic assistance to students with disabilities, and developing enrichment opportunities for youth experiencing parental incarceration. I have a background in recruiting and training volunteers, as well as a strong personal commitment to community service. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed volunteering for Valley Eye Radio, Horizons for Homeless Children, Hilltown Churches Food Pantry (where I first met Kristen Tillona Baker!), and Elmer’s Community Center.

I am incredibly impressed by the breadth and depth of services the Mary Lyon Foundation provides. In my short time here, I’ve seen how the Foundation delivers direct, immediate support to families and schools. The Foundation is small, but mighty — thanks to an exceptional staff, a passionate Board of Directors, and dedicated volunteers. I’m honored to play a role in sustaining current programs and expanding our offerings, always with the whole student, whole family, and whole community in mind.

Building authentic relationships is at the heart of my work. I value collaboration, open communication, and conscientious listening. I want to get to know our community members and understand how our programs and services impact them. Over the next year, I plan to listen and learn from as many of you as possible. I believe strong communities are built on systems that help us care for one another — and the Mary Lyon Foundation is committed to nurturing those systems across our region.

One example of this work is our 3rd Annual Resource Fair at Mohawk Trail Regional School, happening Wednesday, September 17 from 3:30 pm to 7 pm. I invite you all to attend! Meet service providers, get a flu vaccine, enjoy dinner catered by Stone Soup Café, and connect with community members.

I look forward to meeting you at the Fair!

I can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 413-299-8185