Alvernia names Duff as Chairperson

Timothy J. Daley joins Alvernia University Board of Trustees

Alvernia University announces Michael Duff as the new Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, replacing Gregg Shemanski after a three-year term. The university also announced the appointment of Timothy J. Daley '79, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Berks County to its Board of Trustees.

"Alvernia University is deeply grateful for the exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment Gregg Shemanski has provided over the past three years as chair of the Board of Trustees," said Alvernia President Glynis A. Fitzgerald. His guidance has helped position the university for continued growth and innovation. We now look forward to working alongside Mike as we advance our agile and entrepreneurial approach to higher education-one that meets the evolving needs of our students and the communities we serve. Tim exemplifies the very best of servant leadership and reflects the true spirit of an Alvernia graduate. His unwavering dedication to the Berks County community and to Alvernia's mission makes him an outstanding addition to our board. We are thrilled to welcome his insight, passion, and enduring commitment to student success and regional transformation."

Daley, a proud alumnus with a degree in criminal justice administration, brings more than four decades of leadership experience in public safety, education and nonprofit administration to the governing board of the university. In his current role, Daley oversees daily operations at Habitat for Humanity of Berks County, where he has expanded homeownership opportunities for modest-income families and secured more than $1.6 million in funding for the Buttonwood Gateway Project and other neighborhood revitalization initiatives across the City of Reading.

"Tim's longstanding service to his community, his deep ties to Alvernia and his understanding of public systems and nonprofit leadership bring valuable perspective to our work," said Alvernia Board of Trustees Chairperson Michael Duff. "As the university continues to grow and evolve, trustees like Tim ensure we remain grounded in our mission while advancing our strategic vision."

Daley's professional background includes more than 20 years in criminal justice and school safety roles, including positions with the 23rd Judicial District of Pennsylvania, Chester County Intermediate Unit, Reading School District and Reading Police Department. He has co-authored public safety training guides, testified before Congress and the Pennsylvania legislature, and served as a national thought leader in crisis response and safety education.

"It is with great pride and genuine humility that I join the Board of Trustees at Alvernia University," said Daley. "I look forward to contributing to the university's continued growth and ensuring that the Franciscan spirit remains vibrant and enduring."

Daley is an engaged member of the Alvernia community, currently serving on the President's Advisory Council and previously on the Alumni Council and the Criminal Justice Curriculum Review Committee. His commitment earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2021. He remains active in civic life through roles with Visions Federal Credit Union and other local advisory boards. A graduate of Holy Name High School, he also holds a Pennsylvania teaching certificate and frequently lectures on criminal justice topics at the university.

To learn more about the Board of Trustees, visit Alvernia's leadership page.