Leadership

Aurora is a dynamic nonprofit executive with over 20 years of experience driving innovation and excellence in the human services field. Supported by a diverse and robust blend of career experience and academic achievements, she brings deep expertise in executive leadership, operational oversight, financial stewardship, and strategic planning.  Aurora is passionate about fostering environments that inspire innovation, interdependence, and mission-driven impact. She is known for building high-performing teams and cultivating a culture of accountability and compassion. Skilled in guiding organizations through change, Aurora maintains a clear vision for sustainable growth while delivering high-quality, person-centered services. Her leadership has led to system improvements that enhance service delivery, ensure compliance, and strengthen fiscal responsibility.  A forward-thinking strategist and systems thinker, Aurora excels at implementing innovative solutions, leveraging technology, and navigating the complexities of today’s human services landscape.  Prior to her current role, Aurora served as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing programs including community living, early intervention, early learning, clinical services, supported employment, home and community-based services, and transitional care for medically fragile children. She also served as the founding CEO of JEVS at Home, a nonprofit homecare agency, where she led the organization through a period of remarkable growth and service transformation.  Widely recognized for her visionary leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to person-centered care, Aurora is dedicated to advancing inclusive, high-quality services that empower individuals and strengthen communities.  Aurora holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Italian from Temple University, a Master of Business Administration from La Salle University, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. Fluent in English, Albanian, and Italian, she has been honored with several prestigious awards including the Philadelphia Business Journal 2025 Corporate Leadership Award, Billy Penn’s “Who’s Next” in Public Service Award (2018), SmartCEO’s Future 50 Award (2017), and the 2016 Cornerstone Award. 

Joy joined KenCrest in 1999, serving as an Employment Consultant, being promoted to Site Facilitator and then Director of Facility-Based Programs. In 2009, she became the Assistant to the Executive Director of KenCrest Services. Ms. Reiss has an Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy from Penn State University and a B.A. in Psychology from Lebanon Valley College.

Pattie Hillis-Clark was appointed Chief Operating Officer of KenCrest in September 2025, after serving as Vice President of Programs since January of that year. She brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, with a career focused on services for individuals with behavioral health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Before joining KenCrest, Pattie spent 25 years at Devereux, where she advanced from Primary Therapist to Executive Director, overseeing programs that served more than 1,200 youth and families each year.
Pattie earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Chestnut Hill College, a Master’s in Social Work from Temple University, and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology from Cabrini College. She is a Licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania and has also held certifications as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.

Jim joined KenCrest in August 2021 as Vice President of Human Resources and previously served as the Vice President of Human Resources and Compliance for JEVS (Jewish Employment and Vocational Services) Human Services. He joins our team with over 20 years of experience in the human services industry; supporting other provider agencies through human resources management, compliance and privacy, and performance improvement programs. Jim earned both his BA and Masters of Healthcare Administration from Penn State University, and is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Health Care Compliance Association, and the Penn State University Alumni Association.

John has been with KenCrest since 1994, being named Chief Technology Officer in September of 2014.  He previously served as the Director of Information Systems as well as the Data Processing Manager at KenCrest. During his tenure, he has built the company’s technology infrastructure and spearheaded joint IT ventures with other non-profit organizations. Prior to joining KenCrest, Mr. Howe was employed by TV GUIDE Magazine. John has successfully completed numerous information technology courses from Penn State University and holds an IT Management Certification from Villanova University.