Women in Municipal Leadership - Women's History Month 2026

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.