The Trailways Transportation System (Trailways) named Sheila D. Ryba as its new president/CEO, effective March 16, 2015. She follows Trailways’ former President/CEO Gale C. Ellsworth.

Ryba brings a background of varied experience with both profit and non-profit organizations to her new Trailways leadership position. Besides her own consulting firm that specializes in business development, lobbying, fund development and strategic planning, Ryba has led several non-profit organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Durham, N.C.; the Alice Aycock Poe Center for Health Education in Raleigh, N.C.; the San Diego regional office for the American Heart Association and the Savannah (Ga.) Hospitality Association.

Ron Moore, Trailways’ chairman and the president of Iowa-based, Burlington Trailways, introduced Ryba at Trailways’ 79th annual stockholders meeting and conference in Palm Springs, March 8 to 11. She responded with her vision for Trailways' future growth on several fronts.

"I look forward to guiding the Trailways brand into even more routes of transportation excellence than it already has enjoyed in its nearly 80 years of existence," said Ryba.

"Those who have come before me have built a respected American business icon, and though I am looking at some very big shoes to fill, I am excited about helping our team members find even more ways to build their businesses.

One of the areas we will be focusing on is partnerships with state and local municipalities to help them build municipal transportation systems. I also see lots of potential for Trailways' charter business growth; and, growth for more industry partners who find mutual benefit in supporting our carrier network,” stated Ryba.