Women in Municipal Leadership - Women's History Month 2026

David Cable • March 12, 2026
Orange and white banner with a rounded triangular notch at the bottom center.

Part 1 of Women's History Month 2026 Features

Six women standing together outside a building, smiling at the camera.

For Women's History Month, we're highlighting six leaders within the Municipality of Bethel Park who have made history in their positions.


Municipal Manager - Kristen Denne

2.5 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the first female Municipal Manager. Kristen became a Municipal Manager when she was just 24 years old and boasts a wealth of knowledge invaluable to the Municipality.


Director of Finance - Lisa Lapaglia

5.5 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the first female Director of Finance. Lisa drove the initiative of taking the Municipality from paper to digital payroll which has saved hundreds of hours in processing.


Director of Human Resources - Doreen DeFabbo

5 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the inaugural Director of Human Resources. Doreen established our wellness program and manages the entire employee lifecycle.


Director of Public Works - Susan Dolinar

45 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the first female Director of Bethel Park Public Works. Susie started with the Municipality in the tax office as a clerk and worked her way up to Director. 


Director of Information Technology - Karen Colussi

6 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the inaugural Director of IT. Karen has been instrumental in taking our technology to the next level and protects the Municipality from cyber-attacks.


Bethel Park Police Lieutenant - Lt. Joelle Dixon

16.5 years with the Municipality of Bethel Park and the first female Lieutenant. Recently Joelle successfully completed the 11-week FBI National Academy training in Quantico Virginia.

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The Municipality of Bethel Park has once again received the “Banner Community” designation for 2026 from the Allegheny League of Municipalities (ALOM). “We are honored to once again be recognized as a Banner Community,” said Bethel Park Manager Kristen Denne. “This designation reflects the dedication of our elected officials, staff and community partners who work together to make Bethel Park an outstanding place to live, work and visit." The Banner Community designation honors municipalities and authorities that distinguish themselves as model communities through a variety of sustainable practices. These practices include professional development, intergovernmental cooperation, sound fiscal management and proactive communications to engage community stakeholders. “Congratulations on your designation this year and for your dedication to good government,” said ALOM Associate Director Crystal Sickles. Bethel Park has received the designation each year since 2014.
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By Nancy Guarino June 10, 2026
Please Note:
By David Cable May 4, 2026
F.A.Q.