The D&L Blog

We should start by saying that we had to work very hard to convince her to let us write this article. At the D&L, we pride ourselves on our ability to work as a team to make progress on the D&L Trail and at the National Canal Museum. If you’ve followed our accomplishments on social media, in our eblasts and in the press, you know that 2016 has been an exciting and productive year for our team. What you may have missed, are the outstanding accomplishments of our Executive Director, Elissa Garofalo.

Amidst working with partners to build Pennsylvania’s longest trail and promote the home of Pennsylvania’s only mule-drawn canal boat ride, Elissa has received several awards and accolades of note.

In March, Elissa was named a Woman of Influence by the Lehigh Valley Business. Elissa was chosen by a panel of judges based on her career accomplishments, leadership, vision, community service and mentoring. She stated, “It was an honor to be in such distinctive company, especially attending the luncheon with family, friends and co-workers.”

In July, Elissa ventured to Boston for Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Management.  She was awarded a United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley 2016 Harvard Fellowship to attend this prestigious program and returned to the D&L with a wealth of new information and ideas.  While speaking of this experience, Elissa stated, “To call spending a week at Harvard Business School transformational is an understatement. Lessons learned will affect the D&L and me personally for many years to come. “

In September, Elissa was a nominee for Outstanding Boss in the Buzz Worthy Employers of Bucks County awards. To be a nominee, Elissa had to receive positive reviews from multiple staff members on leadership and personnel management.

In October, Elissa will receive the Visit Bucks County award for her vision and drive to promote Bucks County Tourism over a number of years.

The next time you see Elissa, be sure to congratulate her, not only on a year of outstanding organizational achievements, but one of personal achievements, as well.  Congratulations, Elissa!

The D&L Staff