Univest Director Petro to Chair NACD Philadelphia

New NACD Philadelphia leadership pairs Univest director Tom Petro as chapter chair with Melissa Ludwig's 2026 Directorship 100 and Board Leadership honors.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:31am

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The Philadelphia Chapter of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) announced leadership transitions that honor exceptional service and position the chapter for continued growth and governance excellence. After four years as Chapter Chair, Melissa Ludwig concluded her term in December 2025, leaving a legacy of sustained membership growth, expanded programming, and heightened director engagement. Tom Petro, a CEO, corporate director, and venture investor, will succeed Ludwig as Chapter Chair.

Why it matters

The NACD is the most trusted association for board directors, helping leaders build successful companies that make a difference. These leadership transitions at the NACD Philadelphia chapter reinforce the organization's commitment to advancing board effectiveness and delivering value to its director community.

The details

In recognition of her national impact on board leadership and governance innovation, Ludwig was named to NACD's prestigious Directorship100, honoring the most influential governance leaders in the country. Petro brings decades of boardroom experience as a CEO, corporate director, and venture investor. He is managing partner of 1867 Capital Partners, a director and committee chair at Univest Financial Corporation, and author of the book AI in the Boardroom: A Leader's Guide to Responsible Governance.

  • Melissa Ludwig concluded her four-year term as NACD Philadelphia Chapter Chair in December 2025.
  • Tom Petro will succeed Melissa Ludwig as the new NACD Philadelphia Chapter Chair.

The players

Melissa Ludwig

A seasoned board director and former Macy's executive, Ludwig brings deep expertise in strategy, enterprise risk management, and organizational transformation, alongside broad nonprofit, academic, and civic board service. She also leads Broad Street Angels and corporate partnerships for Fearless Restaurants, reflecting her cross-sector commitment to mission-driven leadership.

Tom Petro

A CEO, corporate director, and venture investor, Petro brings decades of boardroom experience. He is managing partner of 1867 Capital Partners, a director and committee chair at Univest Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: UVSP), and author of the book AI in the Boardroom: A Leader's Guide to Responsible Governance.

Alex Lord

The chapter also recognizes Alex Lord of KPMG for his valued board service.

Glenn Brooks

The chapter welcomes four new board members, including Glenn Brooks, whose diverse perspectives will further strengthen the chapter's leadership.

Julia Klein

The chapter welcomes four new board members, including Julia Klein, whose diverse perspectives will further strengthen the chapter's leadership.

Jeffrey Vrabel

The chapter welcomes four new board members, including Jeffrey Vrabel, whose diverse perspectives will further strengthen the chapter's leadership.

Trish Wellenbach

The chapter welcomes four new board members, including Trish Wellenbach NACD.DC, whose diverse perspectives will further strengthen the chapter's leadership.

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The takeaway

These leadership changes at the NACD Philadelphia chapter demonstrate the organization's dedication to strengthening corporate governance and supporting board directors in navigating the evolving business landscape.