Alvernia University has added a new member to its board of trustees and named a leader for the board.
The college on Monday announced that Timothy J. Daley has joined the board and that Michael Duff is the board’s new chairperson.
Michael Duff, left, has been named chairperson of the Alvernia University Board of Trustees, and Timothy J. Daley has been appointed to the board. (Courtesy of Alvernia University)
Daley, a 1979 Alvernia graduate, is executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Berks County. He brings more than four decades of leadership experience in public safety, education and nonprofit administration to the governing board of the university.
In his current role, Daley oversees daily operations at Habitat for Humanity of Berks County, where he has expanded homeownership opportunities for modest-income families and secured more than $1.6 million in funding for the Buttonwood Gateway Project and other neighborhood revitalization initiatives across Reading.
His professional background includes more than 20 years in criminal justice and school safety roles, including positions with the 23rd Judicial District of Pennsylvania, Chester County Intermediate Unit, Reading School District and Reading Police Department. He has co-authored public safety training guides, testified before Congress and the Pennsylvania Legislature, and served as a national thought leader in crisis response and safety education.
Daley is also an engaged member of the Alvernia community, serving on the President’s Advisory Council and previously on the Alumni Council and the Criminal Justice Curriculum Review Committee. His commitment to the school earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2021.
He remains active in civic life through roles with Visions Federal Credit Union and other local advisory boards. A graduate of Holy Name High School, he also holds a Pennsylvania teaching certificate and frequently lectures on criminal justice topics at the university.
“Tim’s long-standing service to his community, his deep ties to Alvernia and his understanding of public systems and nonprofit leadership bring valuable perspective to our work,” Duff said in a statement announcing the board moves. “As the university continues to grow and evolve, trustees like Tim ensure we remain grounded in our mission while advancing our strategic vision.”
Daley express excitement about his new role with the university.
“It is with great pride and genuine humility that I join the board of trustees at Alvernia University,” he said. “I look forward to contributing to the university’s continued growth and ensuring that the Franciscan spirit remains vibrant and enduring.”
Alvernia said Duff replaces Gregg Shemanski, who was board chairperson for three years.
“Alvernia University is deeply grateful for the exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment Gregg Shemanski has provided over the past three years as chair of the board of trustees,” said Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Alvernia president. “His guidance has helped position the university for continued growth and innovation.
“We now look forward to working alongside Mike as we advance our agile and entrepreneurial approach to higher education — one that meets the evolving needs of our students and the communities we serve. Tim exemplifies the very best of servant leadership and reflects the true spirit of an Alvernia graduate. His unwavering dedication to the Berks County community and to Alvernia’s mission makes him an outstanding addition to our board.
“We are thrilled to welcome his insight, passion and enduring commitment to student success and regional transformation.”