Each January, the Berks County Intermediate Unit joins school communities across the Commonwealth in celebrating School Director Recognition Month, recognizing the dedicated individuals who serve on local school boards and provide thoughtful, principled leadership for schools and communities.
The BCIU is pleased to recognize its Board of Directors, whose guidance supports the wide range of programs and services benefiting our schools, educators, and nearly 70,000 students throughout Berks County. Board members bring diverse experiences and perspectives while sharing a common commitment to collaboration, accountability, and student success. Through policy guidance, fiscal oversight, and strategic direction, the Board helps ensure the BCIU continues to deliver high-quality, responsive services across Berks County.
“School board members give generously of their time and expertise in service to students, families, and communities,” said Dr. Jill Hackman, Executive Director of the Berks County Intermediate Unit. “Their leadership and dedication are essential to the success of the BCIU and the schools across Berks County, and we are grateful for their continued guidance and commitment to doing what is best for children.”
We extend our appreciation to the members of the BCIU Board of Directors and to all school directors for their leadership, dedication, and continued support. Thank you for the vital role you play in advancing educational opportunities for students across Berks County and throughout the Commonwealth.
List of BCIU Board Members
Gary McEwen
Twin Valley | President
Elizabeth Huhn
Brandywine Heights Area |
Vice President
Linda Lash
Schuylkill Valley | Treasurer
Vacant | Secretary
Amanda Stief* | Antietam
James Brophy | Boyertown Area
Mark Leidich | Conrad Weiser Area
Julia Olafson* | Daniel Boone Area
John Fidler | Exeter Township
Lisa Bogacki | Fleetwood Area
Elizabeth Adams* | Governor Mifflin
Ryan Gebely | Hamburg Area
Daniel Wismer | Kutztown Area
Andrew Eaton, Sr. | Muhlenberg
Candice Corle | Oley Valley
Jonathan Tinoco* | Reading
Christopher Heck | Tulpehocken Area
Dr. Amy Kennedy | Wilson
David Hershey | Wyomissing Area
*to be seated 1/15/26
Executive Director |
Dr. Jill Hackman
Solicitor |
James Mancuso, Esq.
Recording Secretary |
Jan Krotee
Welcoming Our New BCIU Board Members
At the January 15, 2026, Board meeting, three new members will be officially seated, and one member will be reseated, bringing valuable expertise to the Berks County Intermediate Unit’s ongoing work in support of schools, educators, and students across Berks County.
Incoming Board Members:
Amanda Stief | Antietam School District
Julia Olafson | Daniel Boone Area School District
Elizabeth “Betsy” Adams | Governor Mifflin School District
In addition, Jonathan Tinoco of the Reading School District will be reseated and continue his service on the BCIU Board.
“Our Board plays a vital role in guiding the BCIU’s mission,” said Executive Director Dr. Jill Hackman. “We look forward to working with our new Board members and value the insights and leadership they bring as we continue to support educators and learners throughout Berks County.”
Each year, our Board Members are honored with a Student Artwork Showcase. View the virtual show here: https://www.berksiu.org/page/student-artwork-showcase