Heidi Freeland-Trail Named in 2026 “Women of Excellence” Class by YWCA
March 25, 2026
Press Releases
Senior Human Resources Business Partner Heidi Freeland-Trail has been named in the 2026 Tribute to Women of Excellence Class by the YWCA of Greater Harrisburg. She and her fellow 2026 honorees were celebrated at the YWCA’s 37th annual Tribute to Women of Excellence ceremony.
The Tribute to Women of Excellence, established in 2000 by the YWCA of Greater Harrisburg, honors outstanding women of the Capital Region for their contributions to their professions and communities. Each of the 26 women in this year’s class has devoted their time and energy to bettering their affiliated organizations.
As Senior Human Resources Business Partner, Heidi works with the firm’s leadership and People Operations Team to support equity and inclusion efforts, influencing retention, performance, and culture. Additionally, Heidi chairs the firm’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee, which helps create space for thoughtful dialogue and growth across the firm, supporting a more inclusive workplace.
“Heidi is an indispensable leader at McNees, particularly when navigating our most complex and sensitive organizational challenges,” said Jenna Wagner, chief operating officer at McNees. “She approaches every initiative with a rare combination of strategic clarity and genuine empathy. This recognition is a testament to the impact she has on our firm’s culture and the broader community.”
Outside of her work at the firm, Heidi stays deeply engaged in the communities she’s part of, continually growing and supporting those around her. She is a certified Green Dot and Justice Now trainer and works with leaders, students, community members, and survivors to create meaningful dialogue and share awareness and compassion. Heidi continues to support and strengthen Harrisburg’s local performing arts community through her volunteer work, performances, and ongoing contributions to the region’s cultural life.
“The Woman of Excellence award has been held by so many incredible women throughout the region, and I’m beyond grateful to join them in this honor,” said Heidi. “Central Pennsylvania is home to so many incredible organizations who lift the region up and better each of our lives, and I’m so thankful to work with so many as a colleague, volunteer, and friend.”
Before joining McNees, Heidi served as director of sexual violence prevention and advocacy at Connecticut College, where she helped create a safer community by leading prevention efforts and offering direct support to survivors. Additionally, she served as assistant director of resident life at Penn State Harrisburg, where she worked alongside students to create an inclusive and development‑focused community.
As a Woman of Excellence, Heidi joins a legacy of distinguished leaders and advocates through the Capital Region. This legacy includes several of our own, including Dana Chilson, Julia Coelho, Kendra McGuire, Kelley Kaufman, and Lois Duquette.
To learn more about Heidi’s work and all the 2026 Women of Excellence, visit here: https://www.ywcahbg.org/event/twe2026/
