Jessica Hajek Bates became Chief Executive Officer of the foundation in September 2025. With more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategic planning, and community development, she brings deep regional knowledge and a strong commitment to public service.

Her experience includes leadership roles with Fayette County Community Action Agency and Blueprints, as well as working closely with the late 84 Lumber Founder Joe Hardy. In that role, she helped manage his nonprofit initiatives, supported his service as a county commissioner, and contributed to economic revitalization efforts in Uniontown.

A lifelong Fayette County resident, Ms. Hajek-Bates earned a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Waynesburg University and a master’s in Communication Studies from PennWest University.

She and her husband, Andy, have a daughter, Aubrey, and enjoy spending time with family, traveling, baking, and walking their goldendoodle, Nash.