Denise Herr McCann
Denise Herr McCann is a seasoned nonprofit leader with more than three decades of experience in human services. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Centre Helps in Pennsylvania Furnace, Pennsylvania, where she oversees programs focused on crisis support, mental health, and community well-being. Known for her steady leadership and collaborative approach, she has built a career centered on strengthening community-based services and expanding access to care for individuals in need.
Throughout her career, Denise has accumulated extensive experience in nonprofit management, program development, mentoring, and behavioral health services, including drug and alcohol support and mental health programming. She spent approximately 30 years with a human service organization in Centre County, advancing from case manager to Vice President of Programs before transitioning into her current executive role. One of her most notable professional achievements was leading the effort to secure a new, properly equipped office space for Centre Helps, ensuring staff had the resources and environment needed to effectively serve clients and expand organizational impact.
A graduate of Dickinson College with a degree in English and American Studies, Denise brings both academic grounding and deep practical experience to her work. She is widely recognized for her ability to build relationships, develop new programs, and lead teams of staff, interns, and volunteers. Outside of her professional responsibilities, she values family time, travel, and fostering orphaned kittens, and she remains committed to community service through volunteering and support for local nonprofits and public service initiatives.
• Dickinson College - BA
• Leadership Centre County
• PAWS
• Big Brothers Big Sisters
• Nittany Beagle Rescue
• YMCA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my upbringing and the strong support system I have at home, particularly from my husband and sons. I have also been fortunate to have strong women mentors and role models who have guided and encouraged me throughout my journey.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to establish strong boundaries between their personal and professional lives, as the work can be demanding. I would also encourage them to get involved, seek out diverse experiences, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning is essential, as professional growth often comes from stepping into new challenges and continuously expanding your skills.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life include maintaining healthy boundaries between work and personal life, valuing the support of my family, and appreciating the role of mentorship in my growth. I also place a strong emphasis on continuous learning and personal development, as I believe they are essential to long-term success and fulfillment.