Sheila Hess believes that life is about spreading joy, embracing faith, and lifting up others. Known for her boundless energy and compassion, Sheila has dedicated her journey to serving the City of Philadelphia—its neighborhoods, youth, and communities often overlooked. For her, success isn’t measured by titles or wealth but by kindness, service, and leaving people better than she found them. Through her work in civic leadership and community building, Sheila embodies what it means to lead with authenticity, resilience, and love.
How commitment to spread light keeps Sheila grounded and joyful
What are the habits that you have that allow you to show up the way that you do and do it with such joy?
My faith is a habit. I’m Catholic and very religious. I also credit the work ethic my parents instilled in me. I was born with a disability—spina bifida—and I think it’s that personal determination, the mindset of, okay, I can do this. The doctors would say, “I don’t know if you should do that” or “I don’t know if you can do that,” and I would respond, “No, I’m going to do it.”
There’s an electric feeling I get when I’m surrounded by people. The sad part is when you walk down the street, most people look so serious. They’re out of the zone, glued to their phones, looking miserable. Imagine if everyone you passed was smiling. For me, spreading that light brings so much joy. It’s something inside me that I want to share, and I do it in my own time—it’s just who I am. People say, “You’re everywhere!” and I tell them, “It’s because I choose to be everywhere.” I’m not being paid to attend all these events—this is just Sheila.
Why Sheila believes true success is measured in service, mentorship, and impact on youth
What is your definition of success today?
I’ve never been about titles, so I’m not about financial gain either. My husband and I are both non-materialistic, and that’s a beautiful thing—we don’t need “things.” Success to me is being a public servant, giving to others, and helping wherever I can.
That extends to our youth, because they are our future leaders. If you can be a mentor or coach to young people—especially in today’s world—they need it. They’ve grown up with technology, endured COVID, and missed out on some of the soft skills we had. Many can’t even make eye contact during a conversation. When you ask about their career goals, they often say they want a remote job. I’m the opposite. I need to be out, surrounded by people, moving around, not sitting at one desk.
They have a different vision, but we can still teach them that kindness matters. Especially in our city, many are going through difficult things. I’m fortunate to work with nonprofits serving vulnerable populations and youth. For me, success is seeing growth and giving back in any way possible.
How engaging with neighborhoods shaped Sheila’s leadership journey
How has community been a part of your leadership journey to this point?
Community has been my life. Every job I’ve had has been an opportunity to be out in the community, to represent my organization, and to make an impact. I’ve worked on revitalizing neighborhoods, identifying needs, and helping address them. We’ve done projects like mural arts and beautification, and it’s incredible how that can transform a neighborhood when you collaborate with residents.
For me, community is everything. I can’t imagine not being out there, engaging with people, and working alongside them.
Sheila’s take on how faith and self-worth can push women forward
What do you think keeps women from taking opportunities and instead stepping back?
It’s real, and it’s been happening for a long time. Even I’ve thought, Wow, that’s an incredible opportunity—maybe there’s someone better for it. But then I remember my experience, my accomplishments, and my worth.
Don’t settle. You know what you’re capable of. With personal development opportunities, like coaching, more people are starting to take that leap. They’re saying, I can do whatever I set my mind to.
The hesitation is real, though, because you think, How will I manage this with everything else in my life? That’s when you have to step back and ask, What’s actually stopping me? Usually, the answer is nothing. You just need faith—trust the process and the timing. If it’s not right now, it might be later. When the timing is right, you’ll know, and you’ll be ready.
What Sheila would tell her younger self about hard work, reputation, and embracing her journey
If you had to give young Sheila some advice, what would you tell her?
I was quiet in grade school and followed every rule. I think I was the most ethical person in Philadelphia at the time because we had so many rules! Over time, I’ve built a reputation for myself. Changing from Sheila Squillante to Sheila Hess was the hardest thing I’ve ever done because I already had my own brand. I love my husband and was honored to take his name, but I had to build a new identity.
I’d tell young Sheila, “One day, people will know who you are because of what you’ve done. Keep your faith strong, stay honest, work hard, and be trustworthy.” My parents’ work ethic is still a source of pride for me and my brother—we’re both workaholics. The recognition I’ve received was never my goal, but knowing people notice and appreciate what I do means a lot.
As a young girl from South Philly, I could never have imagined becoming the woman I am today.
Why Sheila hopes to be remembered for spreading joy, empowering others, and being a trusted ear
What is the legacy you’re hoping to leave?
I want my legacy to be kindness, joy, and love. If I can inspire, motivate, or empower even one person to say, I remember Sheila told me this, and it changed me, that would be powerful.
A lot of people are struggling, and I pride myself on being a good listener. I always joke that I could host the best talk show because I wouldn’t even need to ask questions—people just open up to me. They feel comfortable, and I can either spread their story or keep it in complete confidence.
Being that trusted ear, and sparking a shift in someone’s mindset, is enough for me. That’s the kind of impact I hope to leave behind.
Sheila Hess is often celebrated as Philadelphia’s “chief ambassador and top cheerleader.” With her unwavering civic pride, she continues to champion the city’s hospitality, tourism, youth, and disability initiatives. Born with Spina Bifida, Sheila brings a unique perspective of strength and empathy to every project she leads. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate degree from Rosemont College, yet her true legacy lies in uniting people, building coalitions, and inspiring joy wherever she goes. Through faith, service, and relentless optimism, Sheila remains a remarkable force for positive change in Philadelphia and beyond.
