ABOUT US

Where Community Gathers, Creativity Grows

Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Regent Square neighborhood, the Wilkins School Community Center (WSCC) is a nonprofit hub for connection, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Housed in a century-old former elementary school, WSCC has been reimagined as a vibrant space offering educational, recreational, and cultural programs for all ages. From art and dance to cooking, wellness, and language classes, WSCC fosters community pride and personal growth. Whether you're here to teach, learn, or simply connect, WSCC is where neighbors become collaborators and ideas come to life.

OUR HISTORY

A Building with a Past, A Mission for the Future

The story of the Wilkins School Community Center begins with the walls that surround it—once home to Wilkins Elementary School. Since its transformation in the 1970s, the space has evolved from an empty building into a lively community cornerstone. Guided by local visionaries and sustained by passionate volunteers, WSCC’s journey reflects the spirit of Regent Square itself: resilient, collaborative, and ever-growing. Understanding WSCC’s roots offers insight into its enduring role as a place where history, community, and creativity meet.

  • 1927

    Wilkins School opens in Swissvale School District

  • 1977

    School closes, community center plan starts

  • 1981

    WSCC is granted nonprofit 501(c)(3) status

  • 2010

    WSCC hires first staff member

  • 2017

    Community marks the building’s 90th birthday

  • 2018

    CMU Heinz College students start WSCC project

  • 2019

    Perkins Eastman Architects donates building study

  • 2024

    Awarded a generous grant from the Borough of Swissvale, made possible through the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds

Wilkins School Community Center Board Recruitment Announcement

WSCC enriches lives through arts and education and seeks volunteer leaders to join its board of directors.

Board members attend monthly meetings, participate in committees, support fundraising activities, and host events and programs.

The board needs members with unique talents, including accounting, financial experience, program development, strategic planning, and connections to local and regional arts and education programs to help grow our programming.

The Nominating Committee is accepting applications. Individuals interested in serving a dynamic community organization are encouraged to send a resume and cover letter to wscc-resumes@wsccpg.org.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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    Francine VandenBerg

    WSCC Board President

    Francine VandenBerg brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership to her role as WSCC Board President. She is dedicated to fostering community engagement and ensuring the center's sustainability. Francine's strategic vision and commitment to inclusivity have been instrumental in guiding WSCC's initiatives. Her collaborative approach strengthens partnerships and enhances program development. Under her leadership, WSCC continues to thrive as a vital community resource.

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    Jodi Hollinger

    WSCC Board Vice President

    Jodi Hollinger is a dedicated educator and program manager with a strong background in early childhood education and curriculum design. Her experience includes staff development, outreach, and operations, all focused on enriching learning environments for families and communities. As a new WSCC board member, she brings skills in strategic planning, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement. Jodi is committed to fostering sustainable growth and creating meaningful opportunities for community members. She looks forward to building relationships, enhancing programs, and contributing to initiatives that reflect WSCC’s mission of inclusive, community-driven service.

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    Nicole Frankhouser

    WSCC Board Secretary & Treasurer

    Nicole Frankhouser has over 15 years of experience serving nonprofits in the region. As WSCC's Secretary and Treasurer, she focuses on operational excellence to support the center's mission. Nicole earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from Chatham University. She volunteers nationally with Sigma Delta Tau sorority and advises the Pitt chapter. Professionally, Nicole works in the tech industry, bringing valuable insights to the board.

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    David Green

    David Green is a retired teacher, singer, and small business owner with a music degree from Carnegie Mellon and culinary training from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute. He first connected with WSCC through teaching cooking classes as the owner of Sweetie Sweetie Bakery. He now teaches for CMU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Serving on the board is his way of giving back to the community. David is also a former member of The Rotary Club of Swissvale and served as manager of The Swissvale Farmers Market for its first seven years

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    Amy Constantine

    Amy Constantine has served nonprofits for over 15 years and practiced law in Allegheny County for more than two decades. She holds degrees from Penn State and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Her legal work includes appearances before Pennsylvania’s Superior and Supreme Courts. Amy has served on various nonprofit boards, including a charter school and parent-teacher organizations. At WSCC, she supports the board by clarifying issues, drafting documents, and facilitating productive dialogue. She values the opportunity to contribute to her community through board service and sees it as deeply rewarding and meaningful.