Inspiring Leaders
Direct, Authentic, and Uncompromising Leadership
No bells, whistles, costume change or play performance —just a direct 45-to-60-minute clear cut presentation. As a retired urban school superintendent, Dr. Joseph Macharola draws from four decades of leadership to fiercely advocate for ALL children and young adults with intellectual disabilities and support our nation's military and families. He delivers a raw, deeply empathetic lifetime story of faith, service and perseverance that strips away the theater to focus entirely on driving genuine, lasting human impact.
Air Force Reserved Officer Training Distinguished Unit Award - investing in our current and future nation leaders and training. Presented by Major Matthew Campbell and Master Sergeant Jonathon Beaver (May 2025).
Dr. Joe Macharola’s ability to inspire audiences is indisputable. He possesses the real educational knowledge, extensive experience at all levels, and an exceptional level of compassion, caring for all individuals. Educators, parent groups, and administrators will find him captivating and will come away with actionable insights from his presentations.
Dr. Gerald Zahorchak
Former Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Secretary of Education
Testimonials
An exceptional public speaker and motivator, Dr. Macharola communicates with sincerity, confidence, and an authentic ability to connect with any audience. A deep respect for our military and veterans is consistently reflected in a strong commitment to service before self, patriotism, and responsible citizenship, providing an inspiring example for students and our entire community.
USAF Lt. Col. (Ret) Jay Ostrich, Veterans Advocate
As superintendent of Muhlenberg, I was honored to welcome Vietnam veteran and four-time Super Bowl champion Rocky Bleier and U.S. Navy veteran and Beating the Odds founder Rocco Scalzi, who shared their inspiring stories with 1,300 of our students. Their message was simple yet powerful: persevere, never give up, keep the faith, and believe that you can beat the odds.
Pictured with Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sergeant David Bellavia and Captain Otto Voit. Staff Sgt. Bellavia, a United States Army veteran, received our nation’s highest military honor for extraordinary gallantry during the Second Battle of Fallujah in Iraq, where his actions saved fellow soldiers under intense combat conditions. He is the first living Iraq War veteran to receive the Medal of Honor and continues to share a powerful message of courage, service, perseverance, and commitment to others. (U.S. Army) Moments with leaders such as David Bellavia reinforce timeless lessons that resonate across education, military service, business, and community leadership: never give up, remain mission focused, and persevere even when the odds appear overwhelming.
A memorable Veterans Day luncheon with General David H. Petraeus, whose distinguished career included leading troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and serving as Commander of U.S. Central Command. A powerful reminder of the courage, commitment, and sacrifice that define a life of military service.
Some moments in public service stay with you long after the day is over. As superintendent of Muhlenberg, I was honored to have a meaningful conversation with then-Attorney General Josh Shapiro—now Pennsylvania’s Governor—and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Allen Futrick. Governor Shapiro has been a strong advocate for education and the well-being of Pennsylvania’s children and families
An unforgettable afternoon in Reading, Pennsylvania, meeting and having dinner with Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North, a central figure in the Iran-Contra congressional hearings during the Reagan administration. As he spoke, the room seemed to carry the weight of history—of his 1987 testimony under oath and one of the era’s most consequential investigations. Sharing a veterans dinner with him was a deeply meaningful experience, a reminder of the remarkable people, sacrifices, and stories woven through a life of service.
Every graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter. My message to students is simple: embrace what comes next, believe in yourself, and never—ever—give up.
Book Dr. Macharola for your next educational leadership event. Let's discuss how we can create a lasting impact on your organization together.
Ready to Inspire Your Team?
LOCATION
Available for events nationwide
EMAIL
dr.j.macharola@gmail.com
Keynote speaker at the 66th PA Assoc. of Municipal Administrators Conference at Wind Creek Hotel, Bethlehem, PA
Education
Duquesne University
Doctor of Education (Ed.D)
Educational Leadership and Administration
July 1993 - May 1998
First doctoral class at Duquesne University. Empirical quantitative and qualitative research-based study. Superintendent commission.
Duquesne University
Master of Science - MS, Secondary School Administration/Principalship
August 1987 - May 1989
Duquesne University
Bachelor of Science - BS, Music Teacher Education
August 1980 - May 1984
Professional Highlights
Superintendent
Muhlenberg School District
August 2013 - December 2025
Reading, PA
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Saint Francis University
May 1998 - August 2013
Loretto, PA
Executive Director
Appalachia Intermedia Unit 08
June 2009 - July 2013
Blair, Bedford, Cambria, Somerset Counties, PA
Superintendent
Cambria Heights School District
March 2007 - June 2009
Patton, PA
A genuine, joyful moment connecting with intermediate school students—showing them that leaders are human, approachable, and genuinely care about them. Leadership is not diminished by humanity; it is strengthened when the people you lead know you see them, hear them, and care about them.
Decades of Devotion to Education and Leadership
For over forty years, Dr. Joseph Macharola has been a dedicated advocate for students and a respected national voice on educational leadership. Recently retired after serving 12½ years as Superintendent of the Muhlenberg School District, his extensive career includes leadership roles as Executive Director of IU8, Superintendent of Cambria Heights, and fifteen years as an Assistant Professor of Graduate Education at Saint Francis University (PA). Dr. Macharola’s deep professional roots span roles as a teacher, counselor, and principal across numerous districts. With a sworn commitment in 1984 to serve in the United States Navy, Dr. Macharola's path was tragically altered by a serious car accident in 1985. This resulted in lifelong physical injuries he continues to carry with strength and resilience. He now brings these powerful lessons of faith and perseverance to audiences nationwide.A Duquesne University alumnus with a Doctorate and M.S. in Education, Dr. Macharola is a tireless champion for students with disabilities and vocational readiness. Beyond the podium, he is an active civic leader and a devoted father who remains committed to empowering the next generation of leaders.