Sylvia Hill Fields ʼ78, Executive Director of the Eden Hall Foundation, was recognized as the 2022 Woman of Distinction in Philanthropy by Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania in May.

“Sylvia is an exceptional leader – not only in the Pittsburgh region – but on the state and national level as well,” President Mary Finger said. “Her efforts have created in those around her a desire to be part of the change that is needed in our community and in the world.”

Fields was one of 11 Pittsburgh women and two local Gold Award Girl Scouts honored for their accomplishments and leadership at the annual Awards of Distinction. The annual event honors inspirational women and celebrates the mission of the Girl Scout Movement, which is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

Fields has helped to advance numerous colleges and universities in the region, including Seton Hill. A Distinguished Alumna and former Trustee, she has served her alma mater as an advocate for students, dedicated to providing them with the resources and academic opportunities needed to succeed.

The Foundationʼs commitment to Seton Hill allowed the university to complete construction of the JoAnne Woodyard Boyle Health Sciences Center in 2015, providing laboratory, research and classroom space to prepare future health care professionals.

In her role at the Eden Hall Foundation, Fields manages the legal and financial business of the foundation with responsibility for the allocation of more than $10 million annually in support of community and regional programs that address issues in southwestern Pennsylvania.

She began her grantmaking career at the Duquesne Light Company, where she was best known for establishing a Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy. Throughout her career, Fields has worked to build a better community by focusing on opportunities for women, girls and underserved youth.