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.
Marywood University President Named a Chambers USA Ranked Lawyer Marywood University proudly announces that its President, Lisa A. Lori, J.D., has once again been named a 2025 Chambers USA ranked lawyer in General Commercial Litigation — a prestigious honor that highlights her outstanding contributions to the legal profession and her distinguished record as a business litigator. Chambers USA is widely regarded as the leading independent legal directory, recognizing the top lawyers and law firms across the country based on rigorous research, client feedback, and industry peer review. Inclusion in Chambers is considered one of the highest accolades in the legal profession. Before assuming the presidency of Marywood University in 2024, President Lori built a prominent career representing national and international clients — including Fortune 500 companies, higher education institutions, healthcare systems, and executives — in high-stakes litigation and strategic counseling. She also served as outside General Counsel to La Salle University and co-chaired the Higher Education and Healthcare practice groups at her former law firm. President Lori’s leadership extends beyond the courtroom. As Marywood University’s 13th and first lay president, she has brought her strategic insight and collaborative leadership to higher education, championing innovation and community engagement. “I am honored to receive this recognition from Chambers USA,” said President Lori. “It reflects the deep commitment I’ve had throughout my career to serve with integrity, strategic thinking, and professionalism — values that continue to guide my leadership at Marywood University.”
Marywood University Dean of Health Sciences: Local and Global Accomplishments In addition to her academic leadership role at Marywood University, Shelby W. Yeager, M.Ed., Dean of Marywood’s College of Health Sciences, is keeping busy with personal and professional accomplishments, both locally and internationally. Dean Yeager traveled to Paris, France, in April to run in the 2025 Paris Marathon, dubbed “the world’s largest marathon,” which she successfully finished. This race is not her first distance-running event. She has competed in numerous marathons over the years, including those in New York City (for charity), Chicago, and Philadelphia, as well as the Steamtown Marathon in Scranton and more than 15 half marathons. The Paris Marathon marks her first international competition. On the professional front, the Scranton Counseling Center Board of Directors voted unanimously to appoint Dean Yeager as one of its new directors. Her board tenure begins on July 1, and she brings a wealth of experience as an academic administrator with a professional/clinical background in health sciences, including the areas of kinesiology, sports medicine, and athletic training. Dean Yeager has led Marywood’s College of Health Sciences since March 2022. She was a long-term faculty member and department chair prior to her appointment as dean, beginning her academic career at Marywood in 2004. Before that, she was an athletic trainer at Wilkes University, then assumed clinical and administration roles at John Heinz Rehabilitation Institute and Keystone College. Additionally, she worked as part of the Sports Injury Prevention Program at the Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City. Dean Yeager earned her bachelor of kinesiology and sports medicine degree from Temple University and a master’s in health and physical education from East Stroudsburg University. She is a licensed athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach with an emphasis on movement assessment, injury reduction, and corrective exercises. She also holds multiple specialty certifications from the USA-Weightlifting, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and Functional Movement Screening. In 2024, she was inducted into the Order Cor Mariae-Pro Fide et Cultura at Marywood University, an honor bestowed for 20 years of distinguished service.
