Serina Gaston, M.Ed., CHES
Serina Gaston, M.Ed., CHES, is the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Harrisburg Area, a Christian-based nonprofit dedicated to providing safe, affordable housing to vulnerable populations. With over 25 years of experience working at the intersection of housing and public health, Serina has focused on improving the lives of disparate communities through programs that address social determinants of health. Her leadership encompasses operations, fundraising—including major gifts—advocacy, volunteer engagement, and program design for homeownership and home preservation services. Before joining Habitat for Humanity, Serina spent more than two decades in public health, developing and managing community-based programs that continue to serve local populations today. She has extensive expertise in grant writing, organizational growth, budget management, and operations, helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact. In addition to her nonprofit work, she shares her knowledge as a part-time instructor at Temple University, teaching certificate programs that prepare the next generation of nonprofit and public health professionals. Serina’s professional philosophy centers on long-term impact, community empowerment, and service rooted in Christian values. She has earned multiple certifications, including as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and in Major Gifts for nonprofit executives, and holds a Master’s degree in Health Education from Penn State University Harrisburg Campus. Her leadership and contributions have been recognized through awards such as the YWCA Women of Excellence and various community honors. Beyond her work, Serina serves on the board of United Way of Pennsylvania and is actively involved in advocacy and volunteer efforts that strengthen communities across the state.
• CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist)
• HR Management Certificate from Villanova
• Major Gifts Certificate
• Certification course for Managers and Executives
• Penn State Harrisburg - M.Ed.
• YWCA Women of Excellence Award
• National Dean's List
• Association of Fundraising Professionals
• United Way of Pennsylvania
• Pennsylvania Society of Public Health Educators
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong foundation of faith, integrity, and support. My leadership is guided by the strength and wisdom I receive from the Lord, who has carried me through some of my most challenging moments. Integrity is at the core of how I lead, shaping my decisions, building trust, and ensuring that I remain grounded in purpose even in difficult situations.
I am also deeply supported by my husband, who has been a constant source of encouragement and perspective. As a leader himself, he offers thoughtful insight and serves as a trusted sounding board, continually strengthening and affirming my leadership journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is, “you’re only as good as your last decision.” That mindset has stayed with me, serving as a constant reminder of the weight and impact of every choice I make. Leadership can often feel isolating, which is why having a mentor has been so valuable in helping me navigate daily challenges and stay grounded.
Another piece of advice that has shaped my leadership is that great leaders inspire people to follow them because they *want* to, not because they *have* to. This is important because true leadership isn’t built on authority, it’s built on trust, respect, and relationships. When people feel valued and believe in the vision, they are more engaged, more committed, and more willing to go above and beyond. That kind of buy-in can’t be forced; it has to be earned.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remember that “no” is not always the final answer. If you believe in a project or program that will truly benefit the community, don’t give up—find another path to make it happen. Persistence, creativity, and conviction are key to driving meaningful impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There simply aren’t enough affordable homes to meet demand. Rising construction costs, limited land, and restrictive zoning make it difficult to build at the scale needed. Land, materials, labor, and interest rates continue to increase, making it harder for developers and nonprofits to deliver homes that remain affordable long-term and affordable housing projects often rely on layered financing—grants, tax credits, subsidies—which can be unpredictable and time-consuming to secure.
Opportunities that I see are affordable homeownership programs create pathways for generational wealth, stability, and community investment. More local and federal attention is being placed on housing, creating opportunities for advocacy, funding, and systemic change and collaborations between nonprofits, government, private developers, and corporations are creating innovative solutions and shared investment in communities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is a core value in both my personal and professional life, I believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Honesty is just as important, as it builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a culture of accountability.
I also deeply value teamwork and fostering a positive, supportive environment. Drawing from my background in sports, I prioritize collaboration and connection, whether through team lunches, informal gatherings, or small gestures like bringing in breakfast. I’ve found that when people feel genuinely connected, they’re more willing to support one another, step up when it matters, and work together toward a common goal.