Luzerne County is blessed with individuals and businesses of all levels of affluence who are committed to making this the best community possible. The Luzerne Foundation provides the most convenient and efficient means for any person or organization to maximize the effectiveness of their philanthropy.
The Luzerne Foundation’s board, staff, and volunteers are part of a dynamic team committed to our community.
David Pedri, President & CEO
David Pedri has dedicated his career to public service. An attorney by trade, he accepted the County Manager position at Luzerne County in 2016. In this role, David was the head of the Executive branch of government, overseeing 1,500 employees in 32 separate departments and a $300 Million annual budget. With David as the County Manager, Luzerne County made great strides both financially and organizationally, paying off over $250 Million in debt, achieving the highest credit rating in Luzerne County history, investing in County facilities and technology while revamping the Human Resources Department. David also excelled at public outreach creating the Luzerne County Cares Community Expo, an annual event hosting over 600 Human Services providers and subscribers and the “Rockin’ on the River” concert series, a free annual outdoor gathering where over 6,000 citizens enjoy music and food in a County park.
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Diane M. Dutko, Chief Operating Officer
Diane has been a part of The Luzerne Foundation as Director of Operations since August 15, 2005. Her number one task is to keep The Luzerne Foundation running smoothly. Her past experiences as Church Administrator, for 11 years, and Retail Manager, for 2 years, help make this task and other day-to-day responsibilities manageable. Outside the office, Diane is cooking, sewing or spending time with her two dogs and four grandchildren.
She enjoys working at The Luzerne Foundation and helping those who have experienced a loss, or simply have a passion for something, accomplish their goals and achieve their dreams.
Donna Eiden, Grants & Scholarship Administrator
Donna joined The Luzerne Foundation in March of 2010. She assists in keeping The Foundation running smoothly by managing contributions, preparing and distributing donor correspondence, coordinating grant cycles and scholarships, and providing administrative support related to all aspects of The Foundation. Donna has a B.S. in Secondary Education/English from The University of Scranton and enjoys being part of a progressive nonprofit organization that benefits so many in the community.
Debbie Buczynski, Finance Administrator
Debbie joined The Luzerne Foundation staff in December 2016 as our finance administrator. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from King’s College and has a proven track record in the field. Her experience, strong work ethic, operational efficiencies, and attention detail has raised the bar on The Luzerne Foundation’s financial operations. Debbie very quickly mastered FIMS, a specialized software specific to community foundation operations.
Outside of the office, Debbie loves spending time outdoors with her husband Joe, and their college-aged children, Joseph, Adam, and Justine.
Jessica Suda Baab, Philanthropic Services Coordinator
Jessica Suda Baab was born and raised in Northeastern Pennsylvania. After receiving her BA in Theatre Arts: General Studies from West Chester University, she began working with KISS (Kids Innovating Stage and Sound) Theatre Company in Wilkes-Barre. Through her work at KISS and working creatively with the community, her appreciation for the nonprofit sector flourished. Collaborative endeavors allowed her to meet a diverse array of influential people working to support the arts and humanities. Jessica enjoys supporting community theatre, live music, and going on adventures with her husband, son, and dog. She is honored and thrilled to serve as the Philanthropic Services Coordinator for the Luzerne Foundation, and to work closely with a community she knows and loves.
Sylvia Strowe, Administrative Coordinator
Sylvia came to The Luzerne Foundation in April (July) 2019 and she is the first face that you will see when you enter into the Foundation’s building. Sylvia is originally from New Jersey, but has become a Pennsylvanian by way of California. Sylvia is a career administrative associate and supports all the personnel at the Foundation, from writing correspondence to troubleshooting technological issues. She enjoys working within an organization that does so much for so many.
When she is not in the office, Sylvia enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her four daughters, her grandchildren and her grand-fluffies.
