The CHCA Board of Directors is an all volunteer organization. Elections for Chestnut Hill Board of Directors are held annually. Board meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month (December excluded). Learn about our board's annual elections.
Laura Lucas - President
I have been a financial services, marketing and client relations senior executive for GMAC (17 years), PHH, Freedom Mortgage, Newbold Advisors, Selene Finance, Digital Risk and Bayview, and consulted for Bank of America, Chase, Texas based USAA, Vericrest/Caliber and Nationstar/Mr. Cooper before forming my own consulting company. As senior vice president and vice president for many of these groups, I have led transformations, operations and growth opportunities. I am also a hyperlocal influencer with a Facebook social media curated page and a following approaching 4,000 Chestnut Hill fans that I call Chestnut Hill Insiders. This allows me to celebrate all the things I love about Chestnut Hill.
I have been an active board member of the Community Association for a decade serving as President from 2016 to 2020 and VP of Operations from 2014 to 2016. I co-chair our Governance Committee. My biggest pride is overseeing our Green Space Initiatives which is a collaborative group of CHCA, Conservancy, Business District and green partners that oversees the 30 greenspaces in Chestnut Hill and a tree endowment fund. (You may have heard about our new trail on 10-acres at Mermaid Park with Friends of Cresheim Trail.) While CHCA President, I was a board member of the Business District boards. I am a board member of the Friends of Chestnut Hill Library, led the opening of Hilltop Books two years ago, and drive the twice annual Big Truck Book Sales to raise funds for our library. I have served on or chaired many of CHCA committees and fostered strong partnerships with our area community groups, businesses and institutions. Now in our 75th year as an institution, I’d like to continue to build on these partnerships while strengthening the Local and membership efforts."
Sarah Robertson - V.P. of Operations
Sarah has been a proud resident of Chestnut Hill for four years, having previously lived in Center City since the early 2000s. She has a deep love and appreciation for Chestnut Hill and is excited to bring her enthusiasm to the CHCA. She is a team player that is passionate about bringing people together and helping plans and ideas turn into action.
Sarah is a local real estate agent with Elfant Wissahickon Realtors with over 22 years of experience. She loves to tour clients, friends and family around Chestnut Hill and show them the many amazing things that make this community so special. You'll often find her perusing books at Hilltop or the library, hiking in the Wissahickon or strolling the avenue. She and her wife reside in a 1910 carriage house and enjoy gardening, camping and traveling. Go Phils!
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Gregory Lattanzi - V.P. of Physical Division
Gregory D. Lattanzi, Ph.D. has been a Chestnut Hill Resident for 18 years ago. He and his wife fell in love with the community, people and culture of this historic slice of Philadelphia, and are raising their two children here. Gregory is an archaeologist with training cultural resource management, historic preservation and museum studies. Currently he serves as Curator of the Bureau of Archaeology at the New Jersey State Museum and is the New Jersey State Archaeologist. Greg has been most visible as the husband of Haviva Goldman, founding President of the Friends of JS Jenks. He is also a member of the East Mermaid Lane neighbors group.
Gregory's knowledge and experience in the field of historic preservation would be a great asset to the CHCA Board at a time when the community faces new challenges in conservation and development.
Jonene Nelson - V.P. of Social Division and Business Improvement District
Eric Shelton - Secretary
Hello! I’ve been a resident in the Chestnut Hill community for the past four years, where my girlfriend and I make Abington Avenue our home. I have been fortunate enough to watch our community grow, have fallen in love with the Wissahickon, and am a regular at our local restaurants and coffee shops. I'm running for the CHCA board because I feel the shared responsibility to contribute to our community and feel I can contribute a unique skillset to support the organization's mission to "grow a stronger community together."
Professionally, I'm a strategist and designer with Vanguard and an Adjunct Professor at Rutgers University. My work with Vanguard focuses on large-scale, long-term strategic decisions that unite diverse stakeholders in pursuit of common goals. I teach interaction design at Rutgers, or rather, how to effectively communicate via the web. Both experiences require a deep level of understanding, problem solving, and empathy that I will bring to the CHCA and community at large.
Earlier in my career I worked at architecture firm Gensler, leading a variety of projects in real estate branding, environmental design, and strategy that worked closely with neighborhood groups, developers, and tenants to ensure success—my crown jewel being the renovation work on 550 Madison Ave., NYC. The building is a Philip Johnson-designed landmark-designated skyscraper, where ensuring historical preservation but modern use was crucial. I’m also the longest standing board member on The University of the Arts' Alumni Council.
I have benefited from and believe in the Chestnut Hill way of life, close knit community, and rich history that is truly unique, special, and worth preserving. It's time for me to give back to the place that's given me so much. Not only does the CHCA protect and preserve that quality of life we love so much, it is also key to usher evolution, ensuring its relevance, charm, and importance for decades to come.
With my unique background, I believe that I can bring clarity to complex issues Chestnut Hill regularly faces. I'm excited at the opportunity to grow our strong community together and I’m confident in my ability to do just that.
Jason Pierce - Treasurer
Janel Baselice - At-Large
I am a dedicated community advocate, volunteer, and long-time resident of Chestnut Hill with a professional background in higher education administration. I have experience in collaborative leadership, communications, and working within the community to bring about positive change. I'm passionate about preserving the unique character of Chestnut Hill while supporting thoughtful growth and inclusive engagement.
Why I Want to Join the CHCA Board:
I am happy to continue my service with the CHCA Board to help strengthen the connections between neighbors, support initiatives that preserve our neighborhood’s charm, and ensure that community voices are heard in decisions that shape our little village. We are so lucky to have the CHCA that provides so many community events throughout the year for everyone to participate in. I look forward to contributing to CHCA’s mission of fostering a community that I am happy to raise my children in.
Tony Banks - At-Large
"I am a Vice President at Wolf Commercial Real Estate and leads WCRE’s retail practice in Pennsylvania. I focus on multiple area of commercial real estate in the Philadelphia and South Eastern Pa markets. Throughout my career, I have worked with local and national retail tenants, landlords, community and neighborhood development groups, investors, and startup companies. Before embarking upon a real estate career, I spent more than a decade on the trading floor of the Philadelphia Stock Exchange, where I worked with some of the more prominent firms on the NYSE, including Goldman Sachs and Susquehanna International Group. As a part of the Chestnut Hill community, I believe in the CHCA and have admired the work they do. Whether through advocacy and bringing attention to important matters, they have truly captured the voice and heart of Chestnut Hill."
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Allen Barkus - At-Large
My family has been in Chestnut Hill since 1967, and I've lived here for many of those years. I am chairman of the Ted Barkus Company, now ranked as the #1 marketing company in Philadelphia by the Philadelphia Business Journal. In that position, I've created marketing and public relations campaigns for smaller divisions of national and international businesses. As the publisher of the Travelore Report, published since 1971, I've written about many domestic and international destinations. Travelore currently reaches 175,000 views monthly. I'm also a senior Ashtanga yoga teacher, one of just a few hundred in the world, taught personally by direct lineage/family of who brought the practice to the Western world. I actually served on the board of the community association before, as a student representative, in the 1970s and also ran the student employment program for a few years. More recently, I've informally assisted some of the local shops.
I would like to serve on the board because I've lived in the Chestnut Hill community for many years and have seen several phases of economic development in the area. I think the changes now are going to have a huge impact in the direction Chestnut Hill will be taking, probably for the next 20 years. I am most interested in protecting our community during this period of growth and maintaining our unique historic heritage and quality of life. One example is the importance to Philadelphia and Pennsylvania of keeping full access to public transportation to our area.
James Bruno - At -Large
Hello! Since the age of 10, I’ve lived in Chestnut Hill, Mt Airy and Chestnut Hill again! Growing up in a family of 7 boys and 2 girls, I attended Norwood Academy, LaSalle High and Temple University.
Since we were married in 1990, my wife Maureen Pié and I have lived on Summit Street here in Chestnut Hill where we raised our three children, Susannah, Will and Claire, who attended OMC, Norwood and JS Jenks. In fact all three have their names carved (legally!) on the Jenks playground fence.
Our family has been active in this community for decades. I served on the Chestnut Hill Youth Sports’ Board, and spent over 30 years with that organization, 25 years as a little league baseball coach and 5 years as the baseball commissioner. I was also one of the parents who founded our girls’ intramural soccer program and I coached girls’ softball and soccer.
In other activities, I was the first president of Teenagers’ Inc., and helped them obtain their 501(c)(3) status. For over a decade Maureen and I were volunteers at the Germantown-based Inn Dwelling, Inc., a program where Brother Al Smith and Sister Rosemary Jefferson have tutored gifted at-risk middle- and high school students, assisting them with admission and scholarships to elite high schools and universities. At their Annual Gala in 2019 Maureen and I were honored for their years of service.
As next-door neighbors to the proposed 33-unit apartment building at 10 Bethlehem Pike we have been working closely with members of the Community Association Board and LUPZ. I have been impressed by the effort and dedication the CHCA is bringing to improving the project so that it will be better incorporated into the fabric of our vibrant and beautiful neighborhood. I have been reminded of the good work the CHCA has done over its many years before and since Maureen was a member of the board in the ‘90s. I want to serve alongside these community conscious people.
Kathi Clayton - At-Large
Lindsey D'Angelo
Hello! I am a current resident of Chestnut Hill, having moved here 9 years ago with my husband, Ryan Umberger. We are enjoying raising our 5 year old daughter, Margot and newborn, August, on the avenue, at Pastorius Park, Jenks playground, and of course, frequenting all local cafes and restaurants!
Professionally, I have been a governance, risk, and control professional within the financial industry for 14 years. I have spent most of my career in internal audit professional practices and technology management at a big bank, managing communications between multiple parties to resolve issues is a daily occurrence.
I have done one prior term on the CHCA Board from 2017-2020, and have volunteered to assist in organizing or co-chairing events such as the Circle of Trees and the Great House Tours.
As a member of the community and raising two children here, I’d like be as involved as possible. Ideally I can help provide more for our neighbors, whether it be through green space initiatives, organizing events and family activities, or just providing a voice for our community members. Currently, our home has been in the center of major construction activities. As a result, ensuring neighbors are in the know and have appropriate say when they are impacted by current events in the community is something I am passionate about.
Tom Johnson - At-Large
I recently moved to Chestnut Hill from Miami with my wife and five-year-old son. I was born in Delco and grew up in New Jersey, but after living in Florida for nine years, we were ready to move back to be closer to family and experience a different way of living. It only took one visit for us to be convinced that Chestnut Hill was the place for us. In addition to frequenting the great local businesses on Germantown Avenue we have loved getting to take part in the local events such as trick or treating in the fall and the summer concert series at Pastorius Park. It is evident that there is a great relationship between the local business community and the residents. But what I have actually been most impressed by is how welcoming the people are and how committed they are to Chestnut Hill. I would love to serve as part of the CHCA board to contribute to this community, and to deepen my connection to it.
I work in real estate development, having previously worked for an industrial developer in Miami, but my background is in Architecture and business. I’m passionate about cities and neighborhoods and what makes them great. I think my experience and skillset would be an asset to the board as I value collaboration, creative problem solving, and honest and respectful listening and communication. I would value the opportunity to serve the board by drawing on both personal and professional experience to contribute to the place I’m now happy to call home.
Laura Leon-Maurice - At-Large
For 4 years, we have lived in Chestnut Hill, on E. Highland Ave. Prior to our move, I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. A cross-country move: to be close to our son who resides in East Falls. In these 4 years, we have become enamored with the kind hospitality and diversity that Chestnut Hill presents. A patchwork of people coming together with a common goal in making the Chestnut Hill community what it is, so to speak. When out walking our pups, we love the friendly greetings and smiles. Marveling at the reaction that a “Go Birds” greeting provides us all. When shopping on the avenue we enjoy seeing our neighbors. Many whom have invited us to their homes.
College took me to San Diego, where I was awarded a bachelor’s degree in political science. Coursework on community involvement around the globe was of interest; interest I still hold after 40 years. Such, in allowing me to see here in Chestnut Hill that community is rewarded for those who get involved.
In 2025, I retired as an Administrator for the Peralta Community College District, working alongside the Vice Chancellor.
As a passionate “Quilter” my love of this hobby over the years, has not been the countless hours of enjoyment at the sewing machine, but seeing the result: where all the pieces come together as one. My full-time enjoyment is caring for my dogs: Sundance and Grace. You may have seen them on the avenue. They love it here as well and guide us to the many “treat emporiums” like Ziffs, George Hobes Fine Art and J McLaughlin, on our daily walks.
I am the principal of a full service architectural and interior design firm, Camille Peluso Architects, LLC. Established in 2005, the practice focuses on Corporate Institutions, including Government, Financial and Workplace Environments as well as Health Care, Retail, and Residential projects. My firm is certified with the Women Business Enterprise National Council.
I am also a member of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts Women’s Committee and a member of the managing committee of the Carpenter’s Company of Philadelphia.
Having chosen Chestnut Hill as my home to raise a family, I am dedicated to the stewardship of this historic village. Please join me in working to keep the quality of our community and guiding it into the future."
Henry Trapnell - At-Large
Henry Trapnell and his husband, Judson, reside in a historical home on East Bells Mill Road in Chestnut Hill. Henry has a deep commitment to his community and a strong desire to serve. His professional background in technology at Google and finance at JP Morgan cultivated a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing modern communities. Henry believes in the importance of financial responsibility and innovation to build strong and sustainable neighborhoods.
As a lover of DIY projects, animals, and a novice gardener, Henry is passionate about local ecology and sustainable practices. He previously served as treasurer for his co-op board in Brooklyn, NY, where he managed finances and ensured that all residents had a say in the governance of their building.
Henry's education at Boston University and Stanford University, including an MBA, also prepared him to think critically and creatively about complex problems. He is excited to apply these skills to the challenges facing Chestnut Hill and work with his fellow residents to build a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community.
Henry is eager to bring his passion for Chestnut Hill to the Chestnut Hill Community Association and work with others to build a brighter future for the community.
Why do you want to join the CHCA Board?
"I'm really excited about joining the Chesnut Hill Community Association (CHCA) board. I have a strong passion for community development, especially in the fields of gardening, historical architecture and outdoor activities. Leaning on my background in tech and financial services, I can bring valuable expertise to help shape the future of our neighborhood. I believe in making our community inclusive, diverse, and sustainable, and I'm eager to introduce and/or reinforce eco-friendly initiatives at Morris Arboretum as well as efforts to support the Woodmere Museum.
Joining the CHCA board will not only provide me with personal growth opportunities but also the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals and expand my professional network. Overall, I am truly dedicated to empowering our community and believe that my expertise in financial services and technology, commitment to diversity and sustainability, and active involvement in community events make me a great fit for the CHCA board. I can't wait to contribute to the betterment of our beloved neighborhood."
Richard Tuttle - At-Large
Richard Tuttle has been a resident of Chestnut Hill since 2016, and a resident of Mt. Airy and Flourtown since the 1980’s. He is an attorney with considerable experience counseling non-profit organizations, and has been involved in a wide variety of charitable efforts over the years. During the past year, he has provided advice and support to the ad hoc Light Up the Tower committee (of which his wife, Lucie Daigle, is a member), and has been a volunteer in many CHCA activities and efforts since 2016. He believes that Chestnut Hill is a special place, and, as a Board member, will do his utmost to support the CHCA’s continuing efforts to sustain and improve our community.
Beth Wright - At-Large
Elizabeth “Beth” Wright has lived in Chestnut Hill with her husband, Fabrizio Franco, for nineteen years. She has served on the CHCA Board of Directors for two years and an additional three-year term will allow her to continue her work on quality of life issues facing the Community.
Neighbors may know her best as the coordinator of the Highland Station Native Gardens initiative where she led neighbors, SEPTA, and the Chestnut Hill Community Association, in creating an oasis for pollinators and the enjoyment of the community. The Chestnut Hill West Station is next on the line!
Beth’s advocacy work in Chestnut Hill began with the 30 W. Highland Neighbors Steering Committee, a neighbor-led effort that worked to address community concerns about the size and scope of the 8-townhome development whose owner was seeking approval of a variance by the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).
A former professional fundraiser, her career in Philadelphia has included leadership development roles with the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts and Sciences and the Curtis Institute of Music.
APPOINTED INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERS
Mark Bainbridge - John S. Jenks School
Marjie Scott - Chestnut Hill College
Tausha Saunders - Chestnut Hill Hospital
Anne Standish - Woodmere Art Museum
