Freedoms Foundation Welcomes New Staff

We are pleased to introduce the newest members of our Freedoms Foundation team – Ms. Staci Bell and Ms. Lara Forgy Kennedy.

Staci Bell joined Freedoms Foundation in November as the Education Program Manager, commuting from the Lehigh Valley where she lives with her family.  Her primary responsibilities include planning and coordinating Freedoms Foundation’s History Encounters programs and teacher seminars.  For over 30 years, Staci has enjoyed working with people from all walks of life, and in various capacities.  While majoring in Art Education at Kutztown University, Staci’s path led her away from the classroom and into other fields ranging from the tour and travel industry to public housing, social work and eventually to renovation, design, and construction of Senior Living apartments. 

In addition to her diverse professional background, Staci has volunteered within her community for decades, most recently serving on the YWCA of Bethlehem Board of Directors, developing educational enrichment programs for middle and high school girls.  These days, Staci spends her free time traveling to various tournaments as a judge for the Southern Lehigh Speech and Debate team. 

Staci brings with her a wealth of practical knowledge and transferrable skills, as well as a passion for service and learning, but she says her favorite job of all time is that of Mom.  “I am thrilled to be part of an organization whose mission is to educate students and teachers about the history of our Constitution and our responsibilities as citizens to protect our democracy.  As a mother, it has always been my priority to teach by example what it means to be a good citizen and neighbor through volunteering, acts of service, and occupation.  What better example can I set than to be part of Freedoms Foundation?”

Lara Forgy Kennedy is a graduate of West Chester University, where she earned a Bachelor of Music in Music History. Lara began her career in non-profit administration as Media and Public Relations Representative for The Mann Center for the Performing Arts, after which she went on to manage an independent fundraising consulting firm in Washington, D.C. focused on sustainable donor acquisition for non-profit international development clients.  She has worked extensively with various churches in the greater Philadelphia area in both an administrative and musical capacity.

Lara has served as the President and Operations Director of The Brandywine Singers, Chester County’s premier vocal ensemble, since 2013. The ensemble strives to provide an avenue for young musicians to make the transition from college music student to professional musician by creating an atmosphere where singers are encouraged to challenge themselves by exploring previously unfamiliar music and consistently improving upon their craft. The Brandywine Singers believe in the unifying value of live performing arts in communities, and endeavor to present high-quality performances and musically educational opportunities accessible to all. 

Lara is excited to join the team as Advancement Manager at Freedoms Foundation, where she will be responsible for the day-to-day administrative and support functions of the foundation’s fundraising efforts. Lara comes from a family with a rich background in civil service and education and was raised with a steadfast respect for civic duty. “I have always believed that we cannot hope to improve the human experience without an understanding of our past and the historical context that has brought us to present day. What attracted me to Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge is the mission to educate future generations not only on the events of the past, but the philosophy of the United States at its inception. It is the deeper understanding of the ‘why’ that sparks a desire to become an engaged citizen.”