Steering Committee.

We listen, we plan, we advocate.

Re-established in 2015

In 2015 a small group of members came together to plan and reform WPSLA. Since then, we've hosted dozens of events and grown to over 100 members.

Our Goal

The Steering Committee wants to offer programming of interest to all librarians in our region. Please do not hesitate to reach out with ideas.

Our Steering Committee

Mary Kay Biagini
Associate Professor
Director, School Library Certification Program
​University of Pittsburgh

Most recently, Mary Kay has been focusing on  Leadership Development for PA School Librarians VI as the Program Director after being awarded the Library Services and Technology Act Grant.  Mary Kay has been the driving force behind the PA Model Curriculum for School Libraries.

Mary Ellen Frank
Librarian
Pittsburgh Public Schools

​Mary Ellen strives to enhance a love of reading and learning in her kindergarten through
eighth grade students at Pittsburgh Brookline. She has been excited to participate in
the PSLA Developing Leaders Academy and the Leadership Institute for School
Librarians, as well as WPSLA professional development opportunities.

Cassie Mader
Library Media Teacher
Mt. Lebanon School District​

Cassie is on a mission to incorporate electronics, coding and maker-centered learning into her curriculum.  She enjoys both offering and attending professional development opportunities on these and other topics.  Cassie plays pinball when she is not busy teaching and learning.

Ruth M. Neely
Director of Libraries
​Sewickley Academy

Ruthie enjoys implementing collaborative cross-divisional and curricular programming for Grades PreK-12. Ruthie was awarded the 2020 Outstanding Library Program Award from PSLA and has presented on VR and the benefits of gaming in libraries at various regional conferences.

Kristen Rowe
​​​​Library Media Specialist
Pine Richland Middle School

In addition to experience working with
Grades 6 - 12, Kristen has participated in various statewide leadership academies and professional committees, including the writing panel for the PA Model Curriculum for School Libraries, and presented at local, state and national conferences.

Laura Wienand
Librarian
North Allegheny School District

Laura is most excited by new collaborative partnerships, evidence of gained independence in research, and students feeling at home in the library. Her favorite professional development experiences include: The Library of Congress Summer Teacher Institute, The PSLA Emerging Leaders Institute, and WPSLA coffee shop meetings.