The Honesdale National Bank Announces Promotion of Rachel Brummett

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Rachel Brummett has been promoted to Branch Manager at the Clarks Summit Office.

In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Rachel has displayed commitment to our customers and internal partners.” He continued, “We are delighted to have her expand her role and showcase our core values as she continues to manage the relationships held in our Clarks Summit community.”

As Branch Manager, Brummett will be responsible for opening accounts, oversight of office operations, customer retention, and so much more.

She is a graduate of Garfield High School as she was born in California, moved to New Jersey in 1996, and later moved to Pennsylvania in 2013 where she has since resided.

Brummett started her career in the financial industry 20 years ago, most recently being an assistant branch manager at another local financial institution. She joined HNB in May of 2022 as Teller/CSR at our Montdale Office. She was later promoted to Branch Supervisor of our Clarks Summit in June of 2023, and now promoted to Branch Manager of the HNB Clarks Summit Office.

In commenting on her new role at the bank, Brummett noted, “Working here at HNB has made me feel fulfilled. It feels like I have come full circle. HNB has treated me like family, and I really appreciate that.”

Outside of the bank, she enjoys watching her favorite sports teams such as the New York Giants, New York Rangers and the New York Mets. She also likes the outdoors, road trips, concerts, and spending time with her family.

The Honesdale National Bank Announces Promotion of Sharon Smith

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Sharon Smith has been promoted to Branch Manager at the Lackawaxen Office.

In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “We are pleased extend this opportunity to Sharon as she grows her career at HNB.” He continued, “She has been proactive in our Lackawaxen community and eager to assist customers with their banking needs which is vital to the HNB & me experience.”

Originally from Queens, NY, Smith moved to the area in her teenage years, graduating from Honesdale High School, and has since received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from East Stroudsburg University. She has then pursued over 20 years in retail management at the Dollar Tree in Honesdale and has now spent 2 years in the financial Industry.

As Branch Manager, Smith is responsible for serving the Lackawaxen community by upholding HNB’s strong values and superior service. On top of managing the operations of the office, she will assist customers as they visit for their personal and business banking needs.

In mentioning her new role with HNB, Smith said, “I am glad to be a part of an organization that encourages professional growth and values support for our customers, employees, and communities.” She continued, “I am happiest when I am assisting customers with their banking needs and building relationships within this community and beyond.”

Since 2022, she has been a volunteer on the Board of Directors for Victims’ Intervention Program of Wayne and Pike Counties. She is also a volunteer/member for the Honesdale High School Band Parents Organization. Outside of the bank, she enjoys spending time with her family. 

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions.  For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.

Wayne Bank Promotes Collin Ennis

Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Collin Ennis to Commercial Loan Officer.

According to Mr. Donnelly, “I’m so proud to announce this promotion of Collin.  His expertise and client skills have made him an asset to our company, and his new role will allow Collin to work more closely with our commercial customers, to help them grow and expand their business.

Since first joining Wayne Bank in 2022, Collin has served as a Commercial Loan Associate.  In Collin’s new role, he will be responsible for providing exceptional customer service, initiating new business, and deepening current business relationships within our Wayne and Pike County service areas.  He is a graduate of the University of Scranton, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance.

Wayne Bank Promotes Derek Bellinger

Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is happy to announce the promotion of Derek Bellinger to Residential Mortgage Sales Manager.

According to Mr. Donnelly, “I’m so pleased to announce this promotion. Derek’s extensive experience and commitment to the communities we serve, makes him an asset to our mortgage team and well-deserving of this promotion. Derek has acted as a mentor to our new mortgage team members for a number of years.  His deep knowledge of the product set, natural leadership style and inherent kindness make him ideal for this role.  In Derek’s new role, he will be responsible for managing the sales efforts of our team of Mortgage Originators to meet and exceed our customer expectations.”

Derek has 27 years of banking and management experience and has held several titles during his banking career, including Commercial Loan Officer, Financial Center Manager, and Multi-Site Branch Manager.

Derek is an active member of the community and is involved in many non-profit organizations.  He currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Human Resources Center, The Chamber of the Northern Poconos, and the Honesdale Lions Club.  Derek holds a Master of Science degree in Human Resources Administration from the University of Scranton.

HNB Promotes Employee

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Skylar Groover has been promoted to Branch Manager of HNB’s Hallstead Office.

In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Skylar plays a vital role in our Susquehanna County community.” He continued, “She remains eager to learn and adapt to new challenges while remaining focused on providing incredible customer service to all.”

As Branch Manager, Groover will be responsible for managing the daily operations of the Hallstead Office as well as connecting with customers to understand how to better serve the community.

She is a graduate of Montrose Area High School and is working toward a degree in Marine Science with a focus in Geology.

With just over two years of experience, Groover began her career in the financial industry in 2020 as a part-time teller at HNB. She went on to become a full-time teller, later accepting a position as CSR. She was promoted to Branch Supervisor in 2022.

In commenting on her new role at the bank, Groover noted, “HNB has allowed me room to grow in my career while giving me the tools and leadership to be successful in all areas of banking.” She noted, “Every day I am able to help a customer, I leave work knowing I have made a difference and that is why I love going to work.”

Outside of the bank, she is a Certified Master Scuba Diver, a member of the New Milford Rotary, loves golfing, and spending time with her family.

HNB Promotes Jamie Shnipes to Branch Manager

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Jamie Shnipes has been promoted to Branch Manager of HNB’s Eynon Office.

In making the announcement, Sheridan stated, “Jamie began her banking career at HNB with the opening of our Eynon Office.” He continued, “We are proud to see her grow with us here at the bank, as she has shown great commitment to those in our local community.”

As Branch Manager, Shnipes will be responsible for generating business within the Eynon Office and managing daily workload to ensure customer expectations are met. She will lead the supervision of frontline personnel, while ensuring the office is compliant with audits and account management.

Shnipes began her career in the financial industry in 2013 as a Part-time Teller/CSR at HNB. In 2018 she accepted a full-time position at the bank. She will continue growing her career as Branch Manager of our Eynon Office.

In commenting on her time at the bank, Shnipes noted, “Working at HNB has given me the opportunity to grow in the banking industry.” She continued, “When I became a teller/CSR at HNB, I fell in love with my job, and continued to meet great people in my community and at work.”

Shnipes resides in Eynon, Pa. and is a graduate of Valley View High School. Outside of the bank, she enjoys being with family, either hanging out by the pool or spending time at their camper.

Marywood University Appoints New VP for the Student Experience

Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., president of Marywood University, Scranton, Pa., has appointed Jeffrey Kegolis, Ph.D., to the position of vice president for the student experience (VPSE), effective July 6, 2023. 

“Dr. Kegolis brings an understanding of our culture and mission, as well as a wealth of expertise in serving students directly,” stated Sister Mary Persico, IHM. “This is exciting work that gets to the heart of who we are in our efforts to put students first.” The areas within the Student Experience include: the Office of Student Engagement, Housing and Residence Life, Student Health Services, the Counseling/Student Development Center, Retention and Advising, and the Dean of Students. 

Dr. Kegolis’ career in higher education spans more than two decades and features extensive experience in multiple areas of student services, including leadership programs, campus engagement/activities, residence life, fraternity and sorority life, and student conduct, among others. His passion throughout his career has focused upon helping others, where he served as a cluster facilitator for Leadershape©, presented to student leaders at the National Association of Australian University Colleges, Inc. (i.e., NAAUC), served for multiple years on the planning committee for The Placement Exchange (i.e., TPE), and developed and facilitated a customized communication module of leadership training, “Fundamentals of Leadership,”​ for Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.

Dr. Kegolis most recently served as the director for student conduct and assessment at The University of Scranton. Prior to that, while at Bowling Green State University, in Bowling Green, Ohio, he was an assistant dean of students in the office of campus activities, and later an assistant dean of students in the office of the dean of students. Additionally, he was an assistant professor of psychology at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. where he also began his professional career in higher education as an assistant director of residence life.

Dr. Kegolis earned his Ph.D. degree in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University. He also is a graduate of Marywood University, where he earned a master of science degree in counselor education with secondary school certification. He holds a bachelor of science degree in psychology with a neuroscience concentration from King’s College.

Munley Law Partner Sworn in as Treasurer for the AAJ

Munley Law is pleased to announce that truck accident lawyer Marion Munley was sworn in as the Treasurer for the American Association for Justice (AAJ).

The American Association of Justice is a 20,000-member organization of plaintiff attorneys

dedicated to protecting the rights of trial by jury. The mission of the AAJ is to promote justice and fairness for injured victims, safeguard victims’ rights, and strengthen the civil justice system through education and disclosure of information critical to public safety and health.

Marion has held several positions in the AAJ over the years. She was elected as the AAJ Parliamentarian in 2022 and has served on the Board of Governors and its Executive Committee. In 2018, she was the first woman to become the Chair of the AAJ Trucking Litigations Group and received the organization’s Robert W. Munley Champion of Justice Award in 2020.

Marion is widely recognized as one of the most prominent and widely respected personal injury lawyers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. She has won many multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for injury clients throughout the United States, including one of the largest truck accident settlements in Pennsylvania. She is triple board certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in Civil Trial Law, Civil Practice Advocacy, and Truck Accident Law. She is the second woman in Pennsylvania to become board certified as a Civil Trial Advocate.

She has been listed in the Best Lawyers in America since 2013 and was named the 2023 “Lawyer of the Year” for Medical Malpractice in Northeastern Pennsylvania. She was recently named a 2023 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyer and is among the Top 10 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for 2023.

The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Staff Members

Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Melissa Rushworth has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Loan Officer.

In making the announcement, Sheridan stated, “I am pleased to promote Melissa to this new role as she grows personally and professionally here at HNB.” He continued, “With her dedication and longstanding record in the Forest City community, it is evident that her experience will lead to success in her new role.”

As AVP, Loan Officer, Rushworth will assist customers with direct and indirect consumer loans, mortgages, and home equity loans.

Rushworth started her banking career in 1998. She joined HNB in 2008 and has held various positions throughout her career including: Sales Associate, Teller, CSR, Branch Supervisor, Head Teller, Assistant Branch Manager, Branch Manager, Human Resource Assistant and now Loan Officer.

In commenting on her new position at HNB, Rushworth noted, “HNB has given me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. It really is like a second family.” She continued, “With the banking industry ever changing it’s comforting to know that we are committed to doing what’s best for our employees, customers and the communities we serve.”

Rushworth is from Mayfield, graduated from Lakeland Jr. Sr. High School, and has completed various continued learning opportunities through coursework through Pennsylvania Bankers Association, BAI, ICBA, and leadership seminars.

Outside of the bank, she is part of the Forest City Lions Club and loves spending time with family, going on vacations, camping, and gardening. She is an active supporter of all her children’s school and sporting events.

Furthermore, Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Kate Bryant has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

In making the announcement, Sheridan stated, “Kate continues to excel in her role and elevate the bank’s executive leadership team.” He continued, “Her contributions to maintaining HNB’s strength and stability and upholding shareholder value are the characteristics that will continue to drive us forward.” 

Bryant has served as the Bank’s CFO since 2016, through which she is responsible for managing the financial planning of the bank and helps direct its overall executive strategy across all departments. She had been previously promoted to Senior Vice President, CFO in 2020.

Bryant began her career in the financial industry in 1999, starting in the banking industry in 2003. She joined HNB in 2004 in the Accounting Department and has helped shepherd the development of accounting and Bank Security Act (BSA) functions.

In commenting on her time at the bank, Bryant noted, “HNB provides me with ongoing opportunities which support my overall professional growth and allows me to be an active participant in my community, for which I am very grateful.”

Bryant resides in Honesdale, Pa. and is a graduate of Honesdale High School. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Finance and Minor in Economics from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She later received her Master of Business Administration from Villanova University.

Outside of the bank, she enjoys spending time with friends and family.

The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.  The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions.  For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.

Marywood University Appoints new VP for Mission Services

Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., president of Marywood University, Scranton, Pa., recently appointed Sister Rachel Terry, IHM, to the position of associate vice president for mission services. A member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Scranton since 2004, she is an experienced educator and leader, with a strong background in faith formation, liturgical preparation, and personal spiritual development.

As associate vice president for missions services, Sister Rachel serves in the Office of Campus Ministry, working directly with students and with her colleagues to promote Marywood’s Catholic identity and affirm its significance as a central part of Marywood’s culture.

Prior to assuming this new leadership role, Sister Rachel served as an Adult Faith Formation Intern at Old St. Patrick’s Church in Chicago, Illinois. She also worked part-time in Marywood’s Office of Campus Ministry from 2019-2021. Before that, she served as a music educator at elementary schools in Pennsylvania and Maryland.