Welcome Our New Executive Director, Christina Bennike!

We are excited to welcome Christina Bennike as the new Executive Director of The Center for Community Growth!

Christina is an IUP graduate with more than 33 years of international humanitarian experience, working in countries ranging from Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to Sumatra, Indonesia, and Russia— and everywhere in between.

Dr. Bennike has been honored with the Department of State Service Award (Lebanon), the Lebanese Army High Honor Services Award, the American Red Cross Service Award, and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Coordination Award for Sumatra.

Whether in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, or anywhere else in the world, the common thread throughout Christina’s career has been a desire to serve the needs of others. As the former Executive Director of Conflict Recovery International, a global not-for-profit organization registered in the USA and based in Lebanon, she directed efforts to help vulnerable and marginalized survivors of conflict and disaster through effective, sustainable recovery solutions.

Her journey began at IUP, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in international studies, followed by master’s and doctoral degrees from LaSalle University. Her deep commitment to global humanitarian efforts has shaped her approach to leadership, bringing a wealth of experience in crisis recovery, community resilience, and long-term development strategies.

Now, she brings that same passion and dedication to The Center for Community Growth, working to strengthen our mission and expand our impact.

We are honored to have Christina lead our organization as we continue advocating for economic, social, and environmental justice in Indiana County. With her leadership, we look forward to new opportunities, stronger community connections, and continued growth in our work.

Stay tuned for more updates on her vision and impact at The Center!