Posted: February 28, 2025 2:38 pm
The documentary “Defining Moments: The Life & Leadership of Quiet Revolutionary Frances Hesselbein” will be presented at the Frank & Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center on Wed., Mar. 12, at 7:00 pm. The documentary about the Johnstown native will be followed by a panel discussion.
The event is free and open to the public, but RSVPs are requested as seating is limited.
“Frances Hesselbein was a supporter of our organization and of Johnstown,” said Patty Carnevali, Heritage Johnstown president and CEO. “We’re delighted to be able to present her inspiring story at our museum on March 12, which is the anniversary of the founding of the Girl Scouts.”
“We bring this film to Johnstown with a deep sense of gratitude to the people of Johnstown who raised and formed this great leader, Frances Hesselbein, who served all of us for her entire life,” said Sarah McArthur, executive producer of the film. “We invite everyone to come and spend 45 minutes learning about Frances, her life and legacy of leadership and service, and come away inspired, full of hope, and ready to serve.”
Inspiring generations with her battle cry “To Serve Is to Live,” Defining Moments tells the story of legendary leader Frances Hesselbein (1915-2022) who started living her purpose “respect for all people” at just 8 years old. A native of Johnstown, Frances took classes at what was then known as the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown Junior College before rising through the Girl Scouts against all odds to fight for equality.
Uncompromising in her purpose and genuinely standing in the truth, she paved a path for us to follow, opening doors that had previously been closed. Recognized by President Clinton with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work as a “pioneer for women, volunteerism, diversity, and opportunity,” her influence has grown over the decades to impact millions and millions of people, invigorating and inspiring each and every one of us to reach our highest potential. The story of this remarkable woman is brought to you by executive producer Sarah McArthur.
The event will open with a Girl Scout honor guard and conclude with a brief reception with Girl Scout cookies. Photos from Hesselbein’s life and career will be on display, courtesy of the archives at the University of Pittsburgh.
The panel discussion will be led by Richard Burkert, former president & CEO of JAHA (today Heritage Johnstown), who knew Hesselbein. Participants will include Sarah McArthur, executive producer of the film; Francie Eckman, Hesselbein’s niece; director David Schler; and producer Beverly Jacobson Schler.
