
The Pottsville Area Development Corporation (PADCO) has announced the appointment of Lew Dryfoos III as its new Executive Director.
Dryfoos officially assumed the role on May 4th, 2026, following what PADCO described as a comprehensive public search conducted by a committee of board members. According to the organization, the committee reviewed a strong pool of candidates before selecting Dryfoos for the position.
PADCO President and Board Chair Chris Kelly said the organization is excited to welcome Dryfoos to lead the nonprofit moving forward.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank our search committee for their thoughtful and diligent work throughout this process,” Kelly said. “We are thrilled to welcome Lew as our new Executive Director. His extensive leadership experience, strong background in business and nonprofit governance, and demonstrated commitment to community development make him an outstanding fit to lead PADCO.”
Dryfoos brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in the insurance and financial services industries. Most recently, he served as Pennsylvania Regional President for OneGroup Risk Management and Insurance, overseeing operations, business development, and community engagement initiatives.
He previously served as President and owner of the Dryfoos Group of Insurance Agencies, a family-owned insurance brokerage with offices in Hazleton, Bethlehem, and Milton.
In addition to his business background, Dryfoos has held leadership positions with numerous nonprofit and community organizations, including the Greater Hazleton United Way, Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Hazleton CAN-DO, Minsi Trails Council of Scouting America, and MMI Preparatory School.
Dryfoos also served as an elected member of Conyngham Borough Council and is a U.S. Army veteran who served during Operation Desert Storm.
“I am honored to join PADCO and to work alongside its dedicated board, partners, and community stakeholders,” Dryfoos said. “I look forward to building on the organization’s strong foundation and helping advance initiatives that enhance the vitality of downtown Pottsville.”
Dryfoos succeeds former Executive Director Savas Logothetides, who recently departed PADCO to pursue a private sector opportunity.
“We are deeply grateful to Savas for his years of dedication and the meaningful impact he has made,” Kelly said. “His leadership has strengthened PADCO in many ways and leaves the organization in a strong position for the future. We wish him continued success in his next chapter.”
PADCO is a nonprofit organization focused on revitalization efforts and economic development initiatives in downtown Pottsville through business support, strategic partnerships, and community-driven projects.