April 10, 2025 –– The Eden Hall Foundation Board of Directors today announced the retirement of President Sylvia V. Fields, following a distinguished 28-year career with the Foundation.

As the first African American woman to lead a major foundation in the Pittsburgh region, Fields was instrumental in the giving and administration of more than $313 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in Southwestern Pennsylvania. These investments were focused particularly in the areas of social and human services, women’s health, and a commitment to building capacity among non-profits to ensure their sustainability.


“In the past nearly 30 years of working with Sylvia, I’ve been fortunate to watch her leadership ability grow, within the Foundation and in the broader community,” said George Greer, former Chair of the Eden Hall Foundation Board. “Her service to the community enhanced our work and ambitions at the Foundation. Further, her insights into important health and human service issues, as well as arts and cultural needs, were instrumental in shaping how the Foundation should approach civic development.”


During Fields’ tenure, the Foundation gave the 388-acre Eden Hall Farm in Richland Township to Chatham University in 2008 making Chatham the largest land holding university in the county. The Foundation’s support was also significant in the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Cabaret Theater renovation and renaming as the Greer Cabaret Theater. The renovation transformed The Greer into a key venue for theater and nightlife, revitalizing cultural life after the pandemic.
In addition to her work at the Foundation, Fields served in many professional volunteer capacities in the greater Pittsburgh region, including:

  • Past Board Chair of YWCA USA
  • Past Vice Chair of the World Affairs Council of America, and
  • Currently Vice Chair of the Allegheny Regional Asset District.

She was also instrumental in key workforce initiatives including assisting in the launch of the 74% Pay Equity Initiative to highlight gender-based pay inequities in Southwestern PA. Fields also received numerous awards and recognition, most notably the Governor’s Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania Award and Pittsburgh’s ATHENA Award.


“I am indebted to the Foundation and to its benefactor, Sebastian Mueller, whose vision was quality education, healthcare and community for everyone. I am proud to have been a part of his vision that included the incorporation of initiatives uplifting the lives of women and girls into the Foundation’s giving.”


The Foundation embarked on a strategic planning process earlier this year and will follow that with a national search for a new president. During the initial transition, Charles J. Stout, Foundation Board Chair, and his Board colleagues will help guide the Foundation staff in day-to-day operations. “One of Sylvia’s major accomplishments was building a strong, talented team, one that has gained the respect and admiration of the entire Board. My fellow Board members and I look forward to working closely with them during this transition,” Stout said.
To honor her work, the Foundation will provide a gift in Fields’ name to her alma mater, Seton Hill University.


About the Foundation
Eden Hall Foundation was founded in 1983 as the continuation of founder Sebastian Mueller’s philanthropy. We seek to improve the quality of life in our area through the support of organizations whose missions address the needs and concerns of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Foundation’s mission and goals are realized through the creation and support of vibrant communities, the promotion of wellness, and the spreading of useful knowledge.

CONTACT: [email protected]