NEPA Philharmonic Announces 2025-26 Season The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic, with Music Director Mélisse Brunet, is excited to announce its 2025-26 Season, Presented by PNC. The season contains an expansive array of unique musical experiences ranging from candlelit concerts to a Battle of the Bands to films live in concert, including Jurassic Park™. Season subscriptions and individual tickets are available at NEPAphil.org or by calling 570-270-4444. New ticket prices start at $29 for adults and $16 for students for most concerts. The NEPA Philharmonic’s long-time supporter of the orchestra, PNC, will also debut as the Philharmonic’s first ever Season Presenting Sponsor for 2025-26. Additional series sponsorships include the Thalenfeld Family Movie Series, the Dr. Seth W. and Carolyn Fisher Pops Series, the Thalenfeld Family Symphony Series, and the Stoppini Foundation Chamber Series. “Extending our relationship with the Philharmonic to become the first season-long presenting sponsor reflects our shared belief in the power of the arts and culture to bring our community together,” said Pete Danchak, PNC regional president for Northeast PA. “The arts are a key economic driver across our region and the Philharmonic’s upcoming season offers programs that further reinforce what we’ve long known – Northeast PA is the perfect place to live, work and play.” Following appearances by the Philharmonic at the Scrantastic Spectacular and Wilkes-Barre’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July, the NEPA Philharmonic expands its Stoppini Chamber Series this summer with two outdoor concerts presented by Harmony in the Woods in Hawley. After a recent concert of Americana Brass in the Woods with the NEPA Philharmonic Brass Quintet on July 5, the NEPA Philharmonic String Quartet joins Regina Sayles on Sunday, August 17, 5:30PM for Regina Sayles & Summer Strings, a program of pop favorites and original works benefiting WVIA. In September, the Philharmonic offers its first ever Sensory Friendly chamber concert with a wind quartet at the Pittston Library on Saturday, September 13, 10AM and 1PM, free for the public. On Saturday, September 27, 7PM, the orchestra opens the Dr. Seth W. and Carolyn Fisher Pops Series with Defying Gravity: Bewitching Broadway at the F.M. Kirby Center. Scott Coulter’s Spot-On Entertainment returns with the Philharmonic for a program of spooky, show-stopping hits from musicals such as Wicked, Sweeney Todd, and more. The Philharmonic brings two “Savor the Sounds” chamber music experiences this fall, featuring a relaxed atmosphere of premium table seating, small bites, and a bar with signature drinks. Autumn Tango at Montage features an afternoon of fall foliage and Piazzolla on Sunday, October 5, 3PM at Montage Mountain Resorts in Scranton. Then on Thursday, November 6, 7PM, Lace Village in Scranton glows with a candlelit string quartet performing reimagined pop hits. The shimmering Lace Village event is also part of the Philharmonic’s new hallmark (Candle)LIT Festival, concerts from October to December fully illuminated by hundreds of electric candles. The Thalenfeld Symphony Series presents two performances of (Candle)LIT Mozart’s Requiem, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Wilkes-Barre on Thursday, October 23, 7PM and at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Scranton on Friday, October 24, 7PM, featuring the Marywood University Concert Choir; organist Mark Laubach; and rising-star vocalists Jessica Leigh, Inayah Raheem, Dylon Crain and Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Artist Sunghoon Han. The (Candle)LIT Festival continues with the fanfare-filled Courthouse: (Candle)LIT Brass Quintet in the Luzerne County Courthouse Rotunda on Friday, November 21, 7PM, and the joyous (Candle)LIT Holidays on Saturday, December 6, 7PM at the Scranton Cultural Center, featuring the full orchestra with the Ballet Theatre of Scranton and the Abington Heights High School Concert Choir. The holidays don’t stop there, with a double bill of animated films The Snowman™ and The Snowman and the Snowdog™ live in concert with the Philharmonic on Saturday, December 20, 7PM at the F.M. Kirby Center, presented by the Thalenfeld Movie Series. A new event this season is Battle of the Bands presented by ROCK107, at Mohegan Pennsylvania Casino on Saturday, January 31, 2026, 7PM. Local bands will compete for a grand prize of $5,000 and the opportunity to perform with the full NEPA Philharmonic orchestra in the 2026-2027 season. Bands of any genre are encouraged to apply at nepaphil.org/events/battle-of-the-bands, and the deadline to apply is October 11; finalist bands will be announced on November 7 and will perform on January 31. The Stoppini Chamber Series continues in 2026 with Cello Starry Night on Friday, January 16, 7PM at St. Luke’s in Scranton, Dreams & Klezmer with clarinet and string quartet on Sunday, February 22, 3PM at WVIA’s Sordoni Theatre in Pittston, and flute-marimba Duo Zuber with Debussy & Frenemies on Thursday, March 26, 7PM at the Luzerne County Courthouse Rotunda. Meanwhile, the orchestral season marks St. Patrick’s Day week with Celtic & Bluegrass Sky on Thursday, March 12, 7PM at Kingston’s Kirby Center for the Creative Arts. Then, relive the magic of Jurassic Park™ on the big screen accompanied by a thrilling, live performance of the NEPA Philharmonic, coming to the F.M. Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, PA on Saturday, April 11, 7PM. Audiences can experience Jurassic Park™ as never before: projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score live to picture. Finally, enter the cosmic world of Planets, Moons, & Star Wars on Friday, May 1, 7PM at the Scranton Cultural Center, featuring the Choral Society of NEPA and the Marywood University Concert Choir along with stunning artistic multimedia projections. Visit NEPAphil.org or call 570-270-4444 for more information.
Tobyhanna Veterans Hart and Shields Continue to Serve Patrick Hart and Jaime Shields are continuing to serve their nation, the warfighters who protect it, and their fellow veterans as dedicated members of Tobyhanna’s civilian workforce. These two patriotic Americans join several hundred veterans who serve among the ranks of Team Tobyhanna. Each July 25, National Hire a Veteran Day is observed as a call to action for employers to recruit and hire veterans. From the heart of the country to the heart of a ship, Patrick Hart served his nation in the Navy for 20 years. Hart’s fascination with the sea and the ships that traverse it began far away from the sea in the middle of the country. Hart spent 10 years of his childhood and adolescence in Arkansas and while there had an eye-opening experience. “When I was in the 8th grade, a group of Navy boats – amphibious boats and tugboats – came up the Arkansas River. I got to go out on them and thought one day I want to drive these things,” said Hart. Combine that passion for seafaring with a history of service that includes his grandfather serving in World War I; his father serving in World War II; his uncle serving in Korea; his brother serving in Vietnam; and his sister serving in the Gulf War, Hart found himself sailing the seas as a proud member of the U.S. Navy just five years later. Over the course of a 20-year Navy career that stretched from 1985-2005, Hart reached the rank of E-6, or Petty Officer First Class. Hart spent much of his 20 year career at sea, including 13 years as “the heart of every ship” – the boatswain’s mate and five years with the Navy’s construction force, the Seabees. Hart’s travels took the boy from Arkansas who wanted to see the world to just about every corner of it. His voyages included South America, the western Pacific, the Mediterranean, the north Atlantic, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, and Panama. Of all these spots, Hart said Palma, Spain, was his favorite for the nice beaches and friendly people. Hart continued his service to our nation when he joined the ranks of Team Tobyhanna in February of 2007 as part of a mass hiring event for the creation of a second shift. Hart worked as a painter until recently transitioning to a role that puts him in charge of all hazardous materials inside the shop and on the road. This critical role ensures the shop has the supplies it needs to provide the finest quality products to our nation’s warfighters at peak efficiency. Hart said his depot career is an extension of his service. “Veterans’ creed doesn’t end just because we retire, our oath of office doesn’t end just because we retire. This is a way to give back,” said Hart. When not at work, Hart enjoys spending time with his wife of 24 years, hiking, hunting, reading military stories and history, and aiding veterans who are in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Fresh out of high school, Shields began serving our nation in June 2001 by providing Information Management support to the United States Air Force. Serving for a total of eight years, she spent the majority of her time on active-duty orders at the Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. She spent the latter part of her military career as a member of the National Guard, which ran concurrent to her joining of Team Tobyhanna in 2007 as a Branch Secretary. Shields said she was drawn to the military primarily due to the opportunities it offered her. “There was nobody that I knew of connected to the military. It was more so the opportunities that the military would provide that were appealing. I didn’t really have any plans to go to college, and it got to where I am today,” said Shields. “I joined before my senior year of high school, so I kind of made that decision early. I just thought that was the best plan. It worked out because I was living in Hawaii!” Shields’ military career ended in 2009 after serving for eight years. She said that the transition from serving in an active-duty capacity to a civilian capacity was eased by both being a Tobyhanna, PA native and following the Army Core Values. “The discipline, the culture, and just the military tradition, it stays with you,” said Shields. “Having respect for the chain of command and having an understanding of how you work within the mission helps a lot.” Hart agreed with Shields, and said veterans bring invaluable skill sets and work ethic to Team Tobyhanna and beyond. “Anywhere in the community, a veteran would be good. We’re disciplined and we’re dedicated,” said Hart. “Veterans at Tobyhanna know what it’s like to be on the other end of receiving the gear, so we want to make sure our comrades get the best equipment.” Shields emphasized the importance of hiring veterans and how granting them positions at government installations like TYAD eases the transition into civilian life. “The most important thing about hiring veterans is the transition from active-duty or reserve over to a government job like Tobyhanna. Hiring veterans does a lot in making them feel wanted and still offers them the ability to support the warfighter,” said Shields. “It keeps them around military terms, traditions, and ceremonies which is especially important to make somebody feel like they belong. Being able to continue those values on to another place, I think, is significant.” Following her time as a Branch Secretary, Shields served for 10 years as a Command Secretary with TYAD’s Command Group. It was while working there that she was encouraged by her leadership to explore new opportunities and to take some college courses to discover her passion. After some trial and error, Shields realized that she wanted to make a career out of helping people. She transitioned to a role withing TYAD’s Employee Wellness Center in 2020 and further made that desire a reality when she graduated from Misericordia University with a 4.0 GPA in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Looking to deeper her education, she then attended Marywood University and earned a master’s degree just one year later in 2024. In addition to her responsibilities as a Community Support Advocate, Shields also runs the installation’s Veteran Support Group. Here, veterans can connect, share experiences, stories, and values in a place where everybody comes together in a place feeling like they belong and are supported. “When someone is transitioning out of active-duty or long-term service, the Veterans Support Group can serve as a place of belonging, connection, and support. Here, veterans can talk to other people who have experienced similar things as them such as boot camp or deployment into a combat zone,” said Shields. “It makes a difference when they’re together with a group of people who share those life experiences, especially when it comes to combat or deployments, because there’s a different understanding of what it’s like to have a family and to have to leave that family behind.” Hart participates in the group and lauded both Shields and the tremendous resource she facilitates, highlighting the valuable information about community veterans organizations. “The peer-to-peer group that Jaime runs is an awesome, awesome group. I get to hear about different stories and events. I love supporting VFWs and American Legions in what they’re doing, and this is a way to find out what they’re doing.” Shields says she is consistently impressed by the strong sense of community the group fosters and how quickly everyone comes together to have each other’s backs. “The biggest impact that I’ve seen is when somebody in the group is struggling with something, whether it’s related to being a veteran or related to their personal life, they receive instant support,” said Shields. “Someone may walk into the group feeling upset and in need some help and everybody just comes together to surround the individual and give them support. Whether they share resources, connections that they have, or just offer empathy in supporting somebody through a hard time.” To veterans who are on the fence about attending the group sessions, Shields said her message is to just give it a try, adding that just because you come once it doesn’t mean you need to come again. ‘The biggest thing that I would say is to just come once. If you come once, it doesn’t mean that you must come all the time. If you have any questions about what we do, what we talk about, or what it’s like feel free to call me, because I’d rather you come and see if you like it,” said Shields. “It’s not a dramatic therapeutic group that you would see on television. We don’t sit in a circle and talk about our feelings all the time. Sometimes we may do that if somebody’s going through something or if there’s a topic we need to discuss, but really, it’s just a place for veterans to come and connect with each other.”
The Waverly Community House Appoints New Executive Director The Board of Trustees of the Waverly Community House is pleased to announce the appointment of Gia Tugend as Executive Director, effective July 22, 2025. Ms. Tugend has served as Interim Executive Director since May 18th, providing thoughtful, steady leadership through a time of significant transition. Her appointment follows an extensive search conducted by a committee of former trustees and community leaders and reflects deep confidence in her experience, vision, and long-standing commitment to The Comm. A Clarks Summit native, Gia has been a dedicated member of The Comm staff since 2012, most recently serving as Director of Institutional Advancement and Digital Media. In this role, she oversaw successful grant initiatives, community outreach, and program development. She holds a dual degree in English and History from Marywood University, graduating in 2014. Gia’s goals as Executive Director include advancing long-range strategic planning, supporting capital building projects, and strengthening The Comm’s financial sustainability for generations to come. With a strong belief in The Comm’s mission, she is committed to expanding educational, recreational, and cultural programming while fostering inclusive community engagement. “Gia brings a rare blend of institutional knowledge, creativity, and forward-thinking leadership,” said Betsy Curtin, President of the Board of Trustees. “Her passion for this organization and her vision for the future make her an ideal leader to carry The Comm forward.” Gia lives in Clarks Summit with her husband Brian and enjoys the outdoors, fitness, and traveling. Programs and operations at The Comm will continue uninterrupted under Gia’s leadership and with the support of the dedicated staff and board of trustees.
NEPA Youth Shelter Appoints New Executive Director The NEPA Youth Shelter board of directors proudly announces the appointment of John W. Rosengrant, MPA, LCSW, CPRP, as its new executive director. This leadership transition will follow the dedicated tenure of Founder Maureen Maher-Gray, whose work has made the organization a pillar in the community. As previously announced, Maureen will retire as of June 30, 2025. With nearly 25 years of experience in the human services field, John, a licensed clinical social worker, brings a wealth of expertise, particularly in supporting transitional age youth (ages 16–21), homelessness and mental health services. For the last few years, he has served as the executive director of a small nonprofit in Scranton called Katie’s Place Clubhouse where he provided social and vocational opportunities to those living with mental illness. John’s connection to NEPA Youth Shelter’s mission runs deep – having served on the board since 2019, including roles as secretary and president, he was instrumental in the formation of the organization’s housing and mental wellness programs. John earned a bachelor of arts in psychology from Wilkes University and a master of social work and master of public administration from Marywood University. “I’m honored to continue the incredible legacy Maureen has built,” said John. “I’m eager to lead NEPA Youth Shelter into the next chapter — one focused on ensuring sustainability and deepening our impact for as many young people as possible.” In addition to maintaining the foundation already in place, John envisions growth in programs and outreach with the goal of making the organization the go-to resource for transitional age youth in the region. His leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of the community’s needs and a commitment to ensuring that every young person receives the support they deserve. “I am excited that John shares my vision for the organization,” says Maureen. ‘He will carry the heart of what we do, valuing every person who comes through our door, into his tenure.” Board President Andrew Cutillo, Esq., says, “Those of us who have served on the board with John have long been impressed by his vision, his expertise, his thoughtful leadership and his humble commitment to service. We’re excited for our amazing community of teens, volunteers, partners and supporters to get to know that same John in his new role as executive director of the NEPA Youth Shelter.”
Scranton Fringe Festival, Celebrate the Arts This Fall The Scranton Fringe Festival is a multi-day celebration of culture, creativity, and community held annually throughout venues in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Founded in 2015 and inspired by the original Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, Scranton Fringe champions bold and innovative work across genres, platforms, and perspectives. Now entering its 11th year, the Festival has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, welcoming artists and audiences from near and far to experience original theatre, live music, film screenings, comedy, storytelling, and more in both traditional and unconventional spaces. Venues include The Ritz Theater, the Lackawanna County Children’s Library, Marywood University, AFA Gallery, and more! The 2025 Scranton Fringe Festival will take place from September 25th through October 5th, featuring over 50 productions and events throughout downtown and beyond. This year’s Festival kicks off with a free public launch party at Marywood University, highlighted by a large-scale 3D projection mapping installation on the exterior of the Rotunda. Among the many exciting works is Ulysses of Scranton, a bold new play inspired by James Joyce’s Ulysses, slated to tour to Scranton’s sister city of Ballina, Ireland, in late October. From large-scale spectacles to intimate, site-specific performances, the 2025 Festival offers something for everyone while continuing to spotlight the power of the arts to unite and inspire. For tickets and more information visit scrantonfringe.org
Marywood University Adds Four New Members to Board of Trustees Lisa A. Lori, J.D., Marywood University President, recently announced that four people have been elected to Marywood’s Board of Trustees, including one trustee who previously served on the board. New members include Jill Dougherty, Washington, D.C.; Teresa Gavigan, J.D., Philadelphia, Pa.; Debbie Kuo, New York, N.Y., and Sister Karen Steinberg, IHM, Scranton. Trustees are elected for a three-year term, 2025-2028. Jill Dougherty, Washington, D.C. Ms. Dougherty is an expert on Russia. Currently an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University’s Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies, and a Global Fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C., she also is a member of the Wilson Center’s Kennan Institute Advisory Council. Ms. Dougherty served as CNN correspondent for three decades, including as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for almost a decade. Her other postings included: White House correspondent; Foreign Affairs Correspondent covering U.S. State Department; U.S. Affairs Editor; and Managing Editor CNN International, Asia-Pacific, based in Hong Kong. She has pursued research on Russia and the media as a fellow at the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, at the Wilson Center, and at the International Centre for Defence and Security in Tallinn, Estonia. Ms. Dougherty is a CNN on-air Contributor, commenting on Russia-related issues. Her articles, book reviews, and commentary have appeared in many national news and other publications. She hosts a blog on Russia issues sponsored by the Wilson Center’s Kennan Institute, and she is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the World Affairs Council. Ms. Dougherty holds an MLS degree in International Relations from Georgetown University and a certificate of study from Leningrad State University, as well as Bachelor of Arts degree in Slavic Languages and Literatures from the University of Michigan. Teresa Gavigan, J.D., Philadelphia, Pa. Atty. Gavigan, Philadelphia, Pa., is an accomplished attorney and executive, as well as a nonprofit board leader, with expertise as a labor and employment attorney and managing human resources programs within Fortune 100 enterprises. She has served in executive leadership positions for human resource programs at corporations and nonprofit entities, including Sunoco, LP; Mercer; School District of Philadelphia; and as general counsel for Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania. Atty. Gavigan has extensive board service and leadership experience, including, most recently, serving as Chair of the Board for Western National Parks Association, Grand Canyon Conservancy and Philadelphia Academies, Inc. as well as serving on the boards of Leadership Philadelphia, and Historical Society of Pennsylvania, among many others. She earned her Juris Doctor and Master of Laws in Taxation (L.L.M.) from Temple University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Comprehensive Social Sciences and Librarianship from Marywood University. Debbie Kuo, New York, N.Y. Ms. Kuo, whose previous service was 1999-2008, rejoins the board. She is an experienced business, finance, and operations administrator with a demonstrated history of working in the fine art industry, including museums, auction houses, galleries, private and corporate collections. Ms. Kuo has worked at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, N.Y., for more than 23 years, and she presently serves as Senior Manager, Administration and Operations, Department of Greek and Roman Art. Additionally, she is the Owner/Designer of Kuo Ting Jewelry. Prior to her long career at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, she worked at Sotheby’s coordinating major sales of Chinese works of art. Ms. Kuo, who is fluent in Chinese (Mandarin dialect), holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History, Business Administration, and English from Marywood and acquired further education in Jewelry and Fashion Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology and in the Executive Development Program at Columbia Business School. Sister Karen Steinberg, IHM, Scranton, Pa. Sister Karen is an early childhood educator and summer camp director, who currently serves as the Student Teacher and Field Experience Supervisor and Summer Camp Director at St. Clare/St. Paul Elementary School in Scranton, a school at which she has served in various capacities for more than a decade. Certified in Montessori teaching, she also is skilled in parent communication and team development. She also taught at Sacred Heart Elementary School, Carbondale, Pa, and served as principal at Saint Rose Elementary School/Sacred Heart Elementary School, Carbondale, Pa. Additionally, Sister Karen taught at Our Lady of Grace Montessori School, Manhassett, Long Island, N.Y., and Blessed Sacrament Elementary School, Staten Island, N.Y. She holds a Certificate in Montessori Teaching from the Center for Montessori Training, College of New Rochelle, and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration from Marywood University.
Marywood University, Area Residents Earn Commencement Medals Several recent Marywood graduates, who are area residents or natives of the region, earned Commencement medals from Marywood University at the May 2025 Commencement ceremony, including Katelyn Ainey, Jessup; Cassidy Asinski, Waymart; Ryan Coleman, Archbald; Megan Wolff Galko, Roaring Brook Twp.; Natasya Handijaya, Scranton; Olivia Kaschak, Archbald; Celeste Orchard, Lake Ariel; Elyse Rehder, Clarks Summit; Riley Skelton, Honesdale; Alexandra Taffera, Moscow; Anthony Viscomi, Scranton; Elizabeth Vito, Dupont, and Zachary Witte, Lakeville. Kaitlin Ainey, Jessup, was awarded the Medal for Excellence in Psychology, founded by the Psychology Club in honor of Sister M. St. Mary Orr, IHM, and Sister M. Bernardina McAndrew, IHM. Cassidy Asinski, Waymart, was awarded the Sister Maria Laurence Maher Medal for Excellence in Biological Studies, founded in memory of Sister Maria Laurence Maher, IHM, by her family. Ryan Coleman, Archbald, who was co-valedictorian of the Class of 2025, was awarded the Kappa Gamma Pi Medal for General Excellence and the Tama Medal for Excellence in Mathematical Studies. The Kappa Gamma Pi Medal was established by the Scranton Chapter of Kappa Gamma Pi, the National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society. The Tama Medal was founded by Mrs. Margaret Mary Tama Hovell and Dr. Judith Tama Page, in memory of their parents, John and Margaret Tama. He also received honorable mention for the Sister M. Immaculata Gillespie Medal for Excellence in Secondary Education, founded by Elizabeth Young Arvad, M.D. Megan Wolff Galko, Roaring Brook Twp., was awarded the Walton Medal for Excellence in Public Administration, founded by Dr. Clarence C. and Elizabeth Walton. Nastasya Handijaya, Scranton, was awarded the Philip E. Mulry Medal for Excellence in Chemistry, founded by the Mulry family in memory of Philip E. Mulry, Sr. Olivia Kaschak, Archbald, was awarded the Sister M. Charitas Loftus Medal for Excellence in Poetry, founded by Jemille A. Zaydon and Friends and Alumni. She received honorable mention for the J. Harold Brislin Medal for Distinction in Creative Writing,founded by the late Gene Brislin, in memory of her husband, J. Harold Brislin, a Pulitzer Prize Winner. Celeste Orchard, Lake Ariel, was awarded the Nemotko Medal for Distinction in Nursing, founded by Mrs. Anthony J. Nemotko, in memory of her husband, Anthony J. Nemotko. Elyse Rehder, Clarks Summit, was awarded the Sister Regina Barrett Medal for Excellence in Early Childhood Education, established in honor of Sister Regina Barrett, IHM, by Superintendent Patricia C. Leamy Riley Skelton, Honesdale, was awarded the Shaffer Medal for Nutrition and Dietetics, founded by C. Norman Shaffer, LL.D., in memory of Sister Mary of the Sacred Heart Walsh, IHM, and Sister Margaret Mary Howley, IHM. Alexandra Taffera, Moscow, was awarded the Judith Piznar Medal for Leadership and Service to Youth, founded in memory of Judy Piznar, Class of 1990. She also received the Rosemary Carroll Kazimer Medal for Excellence in Elementary Education, founded by Dr. Mary Louise Keeney in honor of Mrs. Kazimer. Anthony Viscomi, Scranton, was awarded the Sister M. Sylvia Morgan Medal for Pre-Medical Studies, founded by Elizabeth Young Arvad, M.D. Elizabeth Vito, Dupont, was awarded the Mary Grace Loughney Flynn ’39 Medal for Excellence in Music, established by Sister Elizabeth R. Loughney, IHM. Zachary Witte, Lakeville, was awarded the Sister M. Margrete Kelley Medal for Distinction in Service, founded by Anna G. Kirby in memory of her sister, Sister M. Margrete Kelley, IHM. He also received the Sister M. Immaculata Gillespie Medal for Excellence in Secondary Education, founded by Elizabeth Young Arvad, M.D.
The Wright Center, Chelsea Chopko Recognized as ‘Rising Star’ In Pennsylvania Chelsea Chopko, chief of administrative support to the president and CEO at The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, was one of 40 individuals under the age of 40 in Pennsylvania to be honored as a “Rising Star” by City & State Pennsylvania during a reception in Harrisburg. Each year, the multimedia news organization honors these individuals who work in Pennsylvania government, politics, and advocacy. “Rising Star” members have already distinguished themselves in the eyes of their colleagues and are on their way to amassing many more noteworthy accomplishments. At The Wright Center, Chopko is the operational engine behind the enterprise’s most critical leadership workflows and mission-driven projects. Whether aligning schedules across numerous departments, coordinating sensitive communications, supervising eight administrative assistants, or supporting community outreach, she performs with poise, precision, and a rare blend of warmth and drive. Since joining The Wright Center six years ago, Chopko’s influence has grown in tandem with her title. What began as a role rooted in executive assistance has blossomed into one of trusted partnership and strategic insight. Her work spans the entire enterprise’s more than 677 employees, and she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every team member – from physicians, clinicians, physician residents and fellows to administrators and front-desk staff – is supported. “Chelsea Chopko is the exemplary of leader every organization hopes to have – thoughtful, brilliant, kind, inspiring, driven, unflinchingly dependable, and deeply mission-aligned,” said Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. “Her well-deserved recognition is a reflection not only of her personal excellence, but also of the high standard she sets for all of us at The Wright Center. We are immensely proud of her and most grateful to have Chelsea on our team.” She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in industrial/organizational psychology from Marywood University. Most recently, she completed the University Scranton Kania School of Management’s Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program. Chopko and her husband, Craig, live in Greenfield Township with their children, Roman, 9, and Isabel, 2.
Marywood University Announces Spring 2025 Dean’s List Marywood University announces the students named to the Spring 2025 Dean’s List from each of its colleges, including the College of Health Sciences and the Reap College of Creative and Professional Studies. Undergraduate students who earn a semester GPA of 3.50-4.00 on 12 or more graded credits merit this academic honor. Students who believe they may have been omitted from this list in error should contact the Academic Affairs Office at academicaffairs@marywood.edu. Students named to the Dean’s List from the College of Health Sciences as declared by Dean Shelby W. Yeager, M.Ed., LAT, ATC, CSCS, include: Hanna Adonizio, S Abington Twp; Joanna Aguirre, Wilkes Barre; Reese Allen, New Milford; Valerio Amato, Dupont; Chloe Andricks, Avoca; Cassidy Asinski, Waymart; Tatiana Atkinson, Prompton; Taylor Bartle, Nanticoke; Nicole Bessmertnov, Scranton; Seth Blakiewicz, South Abington Twp; Vanessa Bompane, E Stroudsburg; Kyia Brouse, Scranton; Bridgette Brown, Moosic; Halle Bryk, Pittston; Emma Budnovitch, Roaring Brook Twp; Joseph Burke, Susquehanna; Bethany Burns, Susquehanna; Branielle Butwin, Harding; Nevaeh Byrd, Stroudsburg; Olivia Canfield, Honesdale; Joseph Cardillo, Dunmore; Brynn Carey, Ransom Twp; Mackenzie Carr, Greentown; Zuwena Carrington, Milford; Emily Ceccacci, Madison Twp; Corey Cicci, Scranton; Holly Cieczko, Shavertown; Bailey Cinamella, Covington Twp; Samantha Clark, Peckville; Jenna Collins, Duryea; Lily Connor, Roaring Bk Tp; Alexander Corcoran, Milford; Michael Cost, Scranton; Kylie Coy, Montrose; Erin Day, Oley; Morgan Decker, Avoca; Makayla Decker, Avoca; Alexis Devanney, Fell Township; Molly Devine, Scranton; Ashley Diaz, Scranton; Katelyn Diaz, Montrose; Haylee Docalavich, Tunkhannock; Joseph Dougherty, Clarks Green; Gabrielle Eldridge, Nanticoke; Eduardo Escobar, Harding; Audreyanna Esser, Pittston; Myia Evans, Elmhurst Twp; Destiny Evans, Meshoppen; Katilyn Ezerskis, Scott Twp; Alicia Farrell, S Abingtn Twp; Tanner Fenstermacher, Luzerne; Nikauri Fernandez, Scranton; Mackenzie Ferry, Pocono Pines; Noah Fontanella, Archbald; Madelyn Franceski, Vandling; Brandon Freedman, Fleetwood; Dhruvi Fuletra, Plains; Josie Galella, Tunkhannock; Maryeren Galvan, Scranton; Vera Garrety, Wilkes Barre; Onious George, Effort; Gianna Giumento, Throop; Ryan Glatzel, New Milford; Kydalin Gomm, Sinking Spg; Mirian Goncalves, Peckville; Marissa Gregory, Beach Lake; Makayla Gregory, Waymart; Osten Grigas, Mountain Top; Priscilla Grill, Scranton; Sadie Grochal, Shavertown; Amanda Gross, Moscow; James Guariglia, Pittston; John Guichay, Scranton; Emma Gullstrand, E Stroudsburg; Natasya Handijaya, Scranton; Kortney Harry, Noxen; Caleah Hawley, Eynon; Stephanie Hicks, Throop; Adrianna Howell, Bloomsburg; Ashley Hrywnak, Spring Brook; Gregory Hunt, Dunmore; Kaylee Hysock, Shenandoah; Abbey Jackson, Olyphant; Kaylei Janesko, Scranton; Kylee Jezorwski, Dunmore; Justice Johnson, Laceyville; Jake Jones, Duryea; Dariane Jones, Factoryville; Daelyn Karboski, Olyphant; Keira Knight, Covington Twp; Emma Kobylanski, Olyphant; Noel Korkuti, Clarks Summit; Ian Kovatch, Archbald; Kenneth Kraycer, N Scranton; Mameki Kromah, Blakeslee; Kaeden Kusmierz, Laceyville; Lauren Larouche, Bloomsburg; Madison Larue, Montrose; Grace Lehman, White Haven; Kayla Lettieri, Hunlock Creek; Kaylyn Lewis, Hallstead; Anna Liuzzo, Mayfield; Anthony Llaurado, Dingmans Fry; Grace Lorah, Clarks Summit; Jasmine Loury, Scranton; Emma Maddage, Archbald; Luke Magnotta, Roaring Bk Tp; Kayla Malone, Douglassville; Alyssa Marion, Peckville; Morgan Mayne, Eynon; Willow McDonald, South Abington Twp; Ronan McManus, Milford; Abby Megotz, Scranton; Nina Megotz, Old Forge; Mason Mendygral, Kingston; Brett Miller, Scranton; Lizbeth Moctezuma, Scranton; Christina Monroe, Olyphant; Jeremiah Montano, Scranton; Luis Morales, Gouldsboro; Journey Moran, Kingston; Grace Murtagh, Olyphant; Kaitlyn Newberry, Jessup; Alex Ni, Moscow; Kaitlynn Nichols, Scott Twp; Mark Oldziejewski, Kingston; Rebecca Ottensman, Nanticoke; Alyssa Pajalich, Avoca; Fil Am Jr. Palma, S Sterling; Michelle Pan, Stroudsburg; Mackenzie Panetta, Milford; Victoria Para, Pittston; Isabella Parise, Jessup; Raina Patel, Scranton; Happy Patel, Brodheadsvlle; Allie Pauler, Waymart; Sarah Pavlovicz, Scranton; Kailynn Peck, Forest City; Mallory Phillips, Lake Ariel; Sabrina Pollock, Pringle; Joshua Ponce, Dalton; Caitlyn Posdon, Hawley; Jack Rafferty, Scranton; Brianna Reardon, Factoryville; Paige Redman, Peckville; Brandon Reed, Taylor; Uday Reva, Scranton; Matthew Richards, Dallas; Camille Rillstone, Ransom Twp; Natalie Rinaldi, Tobyhanna; Nora Robson, Old Forge; Bernard Roedel, Lake Ariel; Tatiana Roldan, Milford; Samantha Rooney, Clifton Twp; Jordan Rosenberg, Brodheadsville; Samuel Rosetti, Archbald; Morgan Sakulich, Shavertown; Mahnoor Sami, Jessup; Gracie Secor, Avoca; Kelsey Sholtis, Larksville; Carl Shygelski, Taylor; Nathanial Smyser, Dingmans Fry; Nevaeh Sorensen, Scott Township; Christina Stein, Honesdale; Amanda Suraci, S Abingtn Twp; Cataldo Talutto, Scranton; James Togher, Clarks Summit; JaeAnna Topa, Scranton; Marie Traverse, Milford; Alexis Turner, Clifford Twp; Emily Umlah, Hanover Twp; Mayra Varela, Taylor; Molly Vennie, Hawley; Anthony Viscomi, Scranton; Noel Voglino, Archbald; Breanna Walsh, Scranton; Rebecca Webb, Shoemakersvle; Cian Wescott, Scranton; Ryanne Wheeler, Lake Ariel; Julia White, Scranton; Bailey White, S Abingtn Twp; Gabriella Wilson, Reading; Madeline Wittig, Frackville; Sarah Wolfe, Moosic; Chloe Wolfe, Prompton; Michelle Woods, Wilkes Barre; Rachel Yaros, Carbondale, and Leah Zambetti, Yatesville. Students named to the Dean’s List from the Reap College of Creative and Professional Studies as declared by Dean James Eckler, M.ARCH, MSAS, include: Jihad Abdallah, Greeley; Emma Adamchak, Swoyersville; Annabel Adams, Brackney; Elizabeth Adams, Brackney; Madeline Adams, Brackney; Abigail Adamsky, S Abingtn Twp; Kaelin Alicea, Saylorsburg; Susanna Almonte, Scranton; Tatiana Amaral, Roaring Brook Township; Casey Ames, Clarks Summit; Lila Anderson, Tunkhannock; Mia Angelicola, Waverly Twp; Olivia Arcuri, S Abingtn Twp; Nathaniel Armstrong, Clarks Summit; Brooke Arnold, Old Forge; Aniqa Asim, Scranton; Liberty Azaravich, Springville; Andrew Babinski, Scranton; Matthew Barletta, Scranton; Brandon Bartley, Mountain Top; Ella Basilio, Milford; Bria Beggin, Jessup; Kayleigh Beichler, Dalton; Chase Benjamin, Archbald; Emma Bergstresser, Saylorsburg; William Berlew, Courtdale; Jaelynn Berry, Blakely; Karolina Bis, E Stroudsburg; Mia Blume, Dunmore; Brayden Bogdon, Larksville; Michael Bonavoglia, Dunmore; Mia Bonavoglia, Scranton; Abigail Bonczek, Clarks Summit; Mirian Bonifacio, Mahanoy City; Faith Bravo, Dunmore; Esmeralda Brito Romero, West Hazleton; Joseph Brown, Dunmore; Julie Bryan, Lake Ariel; Caitlyn Burdick, Waymart; Lenae Burkhard, Orwigsburg; Brennan Burnside, Scranton; Joel Cali, Old Forge; Bryan Cano, Scranton; Ashley Capone, Scranton; Kendel Card, Stroudsburg; Christopher Cassidy, Milford; Rebecca Castimore, Lords Valley; Lucca Cerminaro, Fell Township; Hajer Chaibi, Scranton; Emily Chamberlain, Luzerne; Sephora Charlot, Scranton; Alex Chickson, West Pittston; Beatrice Chindemi, Archbald; Emily Chmakov, Gouldsboro; Maya Chorba, Peckville; Maria Cicerini, Jefferson Twp; Anna Cipriano, Scranton; Lauren Ciullo, Clarks Green; Olivia Ciullo, Dunmore; Vito Ciullo, Scranton; Lauren Clancy, Clifford Twp; Paige Clark, Brackney; Anna Coar, Honesdale; Ryan Coleman, Archbald; Isabella Coleman, Factoryville; Gavin Connor, Carbondale; Chloe Conway, S Abingtn Twp; John Costanzi, Dunmore; Elizabeth Cowgill, Waverly Twp; Daniele Cragle, Old Forge; Shannon Croll, Milford; Katrina Davis, Throop; Thomas Day, Moosic; Aviel Decastro, Scranton; Ava Devereaux, Throop; Christian Diaz, Covington Twp; Cristopher Diaz Hilario, Hazleton; Logan Dick, New Milford; Tehya Dietrich, Carbondale; Macrina Dolinish, Old Forge; Cali Domin, Jefferson Twp; Collin Dougherty, Shavertown; Andrew Dovin, Friendsville; Molly Driscoll, Roaring Bk Tp; Kyle Driscoll, Roaring Bk Tp; Sr. Nhung Duong, Scranton; Emily Duris, Monroe Twp; Daniel Ebersole, Scranton; Sabrina Endriss, Scranton; Jayden Evans, Olyphant; Kayleigh Evans, Taylor; Emma Eynon, Dunmore; Ellen Fago, Hawley; Laura Farber, Pittston; Elaine Felipe Olivares, Scranton; Stephanie Fenescey, Montrose; Dominique Ferraro, Jessup; Brenna Fester, Berwick; Ana Fiedler, Stroudsburg; Emma Field, Scranton; Avery Fiorillo, Clarks Summit; Bridgette Flannery, Lake Ariel; Kadyn Forkal, Springville; Alison Fortuner, Carbondale; Serenity Fox, Dunmore; Joseph Fox, Taylor; Jolie Fraggetta, Milford; Kami Frindt, Hawley; Ethan Frutchey, Clarks Summit; Day-Shon Fulcher, Scranton; Gianni Gaitan, Cresco; Benjamin Galko, Roaring Bk Tp; Anastasia Galko, Roaring Brook Twp; Carleigh Galliford, Lake Ariel; John Gallo, Scranton; Estrella Galvan, Scranton; Reece Garvin, Reading; Elizabeth Gething, Old Forge; Tara Gladney, Scranton; Josh Godlewski, Taylor; Dominique Gomez, Scranton; Fabiana Gonzales, Old Forge; Angelina Goyne, Shavertown; Jacob Grande, Dunmore; Kelsey Green, Nescopeck; Allyson Griscavage, Catawissa; Zachary Grosvenor, Kingsley; Mallori Grzywacz, Scott Twp; Marissa Gubitoso, Pittston; Joseph Guglielmo, Madison Twp; Mason Gumble, Tafton; Destiny Hallock, Throop; Charles Hamm, Waverly Twp; Justin Hartz, Orwigsburg; Lawson Hawke, Milford; Karley Heid, Peckville; Camryn Hicks, Nicholson; Jocelyn Hittle, Morgantown; Shaylynn Hoak, Carbondale; Marissa Hoffman, Zion Grove; Zachary Hoover, Elmhurst Township; Carolyn Hopkins, Clarks Summit; Zachary Houston, Exeter; Allison Huegel, Scranton; Colby Hughes, Scranton; Corey Iyoob, Jessup; Emily James, Hanover Twp; Joseph Jara, Lake Ariel; Lindsey Jason, Olyphant; Kyle Jenkins, Scranton; Matthew Jesse, Dallas; Bo Judson, S Abingtn Twp; Corrine Justick, Jefferson Twp; Emily Kaeb, Archbald; Delaney Kaeb, N Abingtn Twp; Shelby Kaschak, Jermyn; Jatym Keller, Kingston; Kaitlyn Kenney, Effort; Megan Kielar, Carbondale; Danielle Kintzer, Mohnton; Taylor Kizer, Scranton; Karyn Klocko, Honesdale; Natalie Kohut, Scott Township; Alexandra Korb, Honesdale; Owen Kotchessa, Lake Ariel; Elias Kowal, S Abingtn Twp; Matthew Kubasti, Hunlock Creek; Brett Kugler, Wilkes Barre; Ella Kulenich, S Abingtn Twp; Melanie Lamberti, Roaring Brook Twp; Kaitlyn Lampke, Saylorsburg; Braden Law, Plymouth; Alivia Lawless, S Abingtn Twp; Alexys Lazuka, Scranton; Sage Lesh, Scranton; Hunter Long, Simpson; Matthew Lorenzetti, Throop; Jodi Lowthert, Long Pond; James Lucia, Covington Twp; Tristan Luczak, Hanover Twp; Isabella Luongo, Old Forge; Ashlyn Maas, Carbondale; Angelina Maglio, Spring Brook Twp; Jaylene Maisonet, Tobyhanna; Hudson Malinowski, Waymart; Aubrey Mangan, Scranton; Hailey Mankins, Taylor; Marissa Manza, E Stroudsburg; Alex Marcin, Dallas; Amanda Marcinkevich, Scranton; Jordyn Mark, Peckville; Lydia Marotti, West Pittston; Riley Marshall, Peckville; Nelly Martinez, Scranton; Jade Marzolino, Scranton; Cecilia Matatics, Scranton; Jayden Matute, Scranton; Danielle May, Madison Twp; Matthew Mazzoni, Archbald; Mercedes McAvoy, S Abingtn Twp; Jack McCabe, Old Forge; Coleman McCain, Great Bend; Michael McCann, Roaring Brook; Danilo McDonough, Scranton; Sarah McLain, Greenfild Twp; Emma McNally, Olyphant; Faith Meals, Fleetwood; Isaiah Meals, Fleetwood; Nicholas Mecca, Dunmore; Kirsten Melton, Scranton; Dominic Memo, Peckville; Jack Messina, Ringtown; Domenic Meyers, Scranton; Mary Miles, Pittston; Bailey Millard, New Milford; Hailey Miller, New Milford; Samantha Mitchell, Lakeville; Mackenzie Mitchko, Olyphant; Evelyn Moctezuma, Scranton; Emma Monahan, Fell Township; Lexi Moncinelli, Mayfield; Jillian Mooney, Dunmore; Jolene Morais, Clarks Summit; Kevin Morales, Scranton; Hunter Moran, Duryea; Nolla Morawiec, E Stroudsburg; Macey Morcom, Moscow; Paige Morgan, Olyphant; Owen Morgan, South Abington Twp; Amanda Moyer, Robesonia; Riley Mulherin, S Abingtn Twp; Connor Mulhern, Duryea; Samantha Munson, Old Forge; Alexandra Murphy, Orwigsburg; Jacob Muth, E Stroudsburg; Yamile Nader, Beaver Mdws; Maggie Nagle, Forest City; Donia Nazmy, Wilkes Barre; Taylor Neri, Carbondale; Maurice Nicholas, Scranton; David Nichols, Jr., Scott Twp; Rebecca Nieto, Hawley; Marissa Nowak, Exeter; Jessica Nowakowski, Duryea; Lauren O’Brien, Pittston; Alexandria O’Halloran, Jessup; Thomas O’Keefe, Milford; Emily Orlando, Scranton; Nick Oruska, Montrose; Cecelia Otis, Olyphant; Julie Pabst, Scranton; Gina Palermo, Eynon; David Paramo, Scranton; Maive Pawelski, Dunmore; Casey Penzone, Jermyn; Ava Penzone, Peckville; Chloe Perko, Bear Creek; Ava Perrins, Throop; Logan Pfaff, Scranton; Matthew Pfohl, Scranton; Ragan Poplawski, Nicholson; Michael Prebola, Monroe Twp; Zachary Price, Scranton; Chloe Pugh, Mountain Top; Anaid Ramirez, Effort; Joshua Ramos, Mahanoy City; Elyse Rehder, South Abington Twp; Emma Renard, Dunmore; Ryan Repecki, Olyphant; Allie Resetar, West Pittston; Kailey Rillstone, Ransom Twp; Anna Rinehimer, Nescopeck; Ayana Rivera, S Abington Twp; Hunter Robertson, Dunmore; Emilee Robinson, S Abington Twp; Thomas Robinson, Scranton; Alexandra Rodriguez, Lake Ariel; Katie Rowlands, West Wyoming; John Russo, Milford; Ceyonna Rybitski, Scranton; Abigail Sankus, Wilkes Barre; Avianna Santarelli, Archbald; Brian Santarsiero, Dunmore; Abigail Saverslak, Dickson City; Autumn Savitski, Shavertown; Brielle Scheland, Old Forge; Santo Schiavone, Clarks Summit; Marissa Schuler, Harveys Lake; Lia Schwenk, Dunmore; Mia Scotti, Taylor; Angelina Servino, Lake Ariel; Aartie Sewah, Scranton; Daniel Shea, Scranton; Briseus Shupp, Harding; Jada Siino, Newfoundland; Taylor Simpson, Dunmore; Gracie Slaven, Moosic; Nadia Slish, Union Dale; Maxwell Slusser, Berwick; Cassandra Slusser, Bloomsburg; Adriana Smargiassi, Scott Twp; Andrew Smith, Archbald; Aspen Smith, Montrose; Darrell Smith, Pleasant Mt; Gabrielle Snee, Olyphant; Gary Snyder, Madison Twp; Todd Snyder, Meshoppen; Emily Spencer, Shavertown; Grace Spisso, Taylor; Kailey Stevenson, Montrose; Bryn Stiles, S Abingtn Twp; Italia Storey, Scranton; Connor Straka, Peckville; Milana Straub, Shickshinny; Antonia Summa, Dunmore; Isabella Summa, Scranton; Jessica Sunar, Scranton; Natalie Sweeney, Jessup; Joseph Swetter, Clifford Twp; Jonelle Symonies, Carbondale; Alexandra Taffera, Moscow; Carissa Tallo, Dunmore; Joseph Taraschuk, Honesdale; Trevor Thomas, S Abington Twp; Samantha Thomas, Factoryville; Caryn Thompson, Scranton; Abagayle Toraldo, Old Forge; Gloria Truong, Scranton; Barbale Tsulaia, Pittston; Stephanie Ulitchney, Olyphant; Kaylee Urso, Old Forge; Peter Valcukas, E Stroudsburg; Jaida Valdez, Scranton; Zachary Valeski, West Pittston; Arianna Varela, Scranton; Nicola Veniamin, Waverly Township; Elizabeth Vito, Dupont; John Walsh, Clarks Green; Mira Walsh, Scranton; Julia Walsh, Scranton; Justine Walters, Roaring Bk Tp; Kenneth Ward, Scranton; Gerald Wasilchak, Archbald; Brendan Weber, Shillington; Victoria Weber, S Sterling; Benjamin Werle, Meshoppen; Emma Wesley, Wilkes Barre; Mia Wilkus, Scranton; Abigail Wilson, Scranton; Savana Wilson, Throop; Madison Winn, Waymart; Zachary Witte, Lakeville; Sean Wolfe, Nanticoke; Molly Yatchyshyn, Bernville; Lauren Yencho, Dickson City; Kyra Yergey, Fleetwood; Maggie Yerkes, Milanville; Rachel Zarubski, Dunmore; Jenna Zerilli, Effort; Yuan Zhou, Scranton; Libby Zick, New Milford, and Anna Zuby, Peckville.
The Wright Center for Community Health Welcomes Director of Employee Health The Wright Center for Community Health welcomed a longtime emergency medical technician and vascular technologist to serve as director of employee health and coordinator of continuing medical education. Mark Powell, RVT, NRP, will oversee employee health services and training for The Wright Centers, which is transitioning from an official American Heart Association (AHA) designated training site to an AHA training center, a distinction earned by training a certain number of people annually and meeting other high standards. “By becoming a center, we can develop sites and expand access to these classes that provide these critical training classes, including Basic Life Support, which many people know as CPR, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and more,” Powell said. “These skills are important for everyone to know because they can save lives.” Since The Wright Center launched its AHA training site in 2023, it has completed nearly 3,560 certifications, which include 1,761 in Basic Life Support (BLS), 416 in Heartsaver CPR, 412 in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), 158 in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and several more. Powell has decades of experience as an emergency medical technician, paramedic, and registered vascular technologist in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland. He has extensive experience directing vascular labs, managing clinical operations, and ensuring accreditation compliance. Before joining The Wright Center, he worked as the technical director and vascular manager at Guthrie Medical Clinic and Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. In addition to being a registered vascular technologist, he is an accredited ACLS/PALS/CPR instructor and a certified intervention team member. Mark Powell, RVT, NRP, helps Taila Avia, a Marywood University student, use a bag valve on a mannequin during a Basic Life Support class at The Wright Center for Community Health Scranton. Powell, our director of employee health and coordinator of continuing medical education, is working to have our American Heart Association (AHA) training site designated as an AHA training center, a distinction earned by training a certain number of people annually and meeting other high standards.
