Toni: In Her Own Words
For more than two decades, Toni Pergolin led Bancroft through times of challenge and change, guiding the organization from near crisis to a future of strength and stability.
In this special video series, Toni reflects on the defining moments, lessons, and people that shaped her journey and the organization she helped transform. She shares her story in her own words, offering a glimpse into Bancroft’s history and a lasting gift of perspective for those who will carry its mission forward.
The Series
Episode 1: How It Began
Before Bancroft became the thriving organization it is today, it faced a fight for survival. In this episode, Toni Pergolin looks back on those uncertain early days and what it was like to step into that moment.
Episode 2: A Vision Realized
The opening of the Raymond & Joanne Welsh Campus marked a defining moment in Bancroft’s history and in Toni Pergolin’s leadership. In this episode, she reflects on the risks, the teamwork, and what it meant to see that vision come to life.
Episode 3: With Gratitude
In this episode, Toni shares heartfelt messages to the families who have trusted Bancroft with their loved ones and to the staff who make our mission possible. She reflects on the people who have inspired her and shaped her journey.
Episode 4: Favorite Memory
Toni shares two favorite memories from her 20+ years of leadership — one a defining moment with her team, the other a quiet, personal moment that reflects how far Bancroft has come and what the journey has meant to her.
Episode 5: A Lasting Legacy
Toni reflects on the legacy she leaves behind and the one Bancroft leaves with her. She shares what she’ll miss most, the lessons she hopes will carry forward, and how the people and mission shaped her life.
Episode 6: The Gift of Bancroft
IIn this final episode, Toni reflects on the gift of Bancroft, an organization strengthened by years of dedication, teamwork, and heart. She shares her hopes for the next leader to carry it forward and continue the mission.
About Toni Pergolin
Toni has been a transformational leader at Bancroft, serving as only the ninth President, including founder Margaret Bancroft, in the organization’s 142-year history. She began her tenure in 2004 as Chief Financial Officer of the then-fledgling nonprofit and was named President and CEO in 2006. During that time, she steered Bancroft from almost certain bankruptcy to a viable and sustainable lifeline for those with disabilities—a turnaround she chronicles in her book “Too Important to Fail: Leadership Lessons for Nonprofits.”
Under Toni’s leadership, Bancroft tripled in size and expanded access to the growing number of people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities. During her tenure, Bancroft created new avenues for services, including an expanded Preschool & Early Education program, The Bancroft School, Mountainside, diagnosis services, and residential supports for those with traumatic and acquired brain injuries.
Before joining Bancroft, she held pivotal finance leadership roles at PENN Medicine, including Director of Operations at HUP, Director of Finance at Pennsylvania Hospital, and AVP of Decision Support.
In 2025, Toni announced her retirement after more than two decades of leadership, marking the close of a defining chapter in Bancroft’s history and the appointment of its tenth President.
“I felt like I was placed here for a reason.”
