Woodloch Resort Massage Therapists Shine at Penn State Four skilled massage therapists from The Lodge at Woodloch recently showcased their expertise at Pennsylvania’s 2nd Annual State Massage Championships, held April 12–13 in Pottstown, PA. Melissa Minaya-Nina, Daniel Slater, Junie Fenton, and Stephen Kober represented the award- winning destination spa, demonstrating exceptional talent and professionalism among some of the state’s best practitioners. Junie Fenton and Stephen Kober earned top honors, placing in the top three in their respective categories. Stephen Kober, competing in the “New & Emerging Massage Therapists” division, impressed judges with his innovative fascia-focused therapeutic massage technique, earning a coveted medal despite practicing for less than a year. Junie Fenton was awarded for her mastery in Western Freestyle Techniques, combining unique skills that set her apart in the competition. The Pennsylvania State Massage Championships bring together approximately 50 of the state’s finest massage therapists to challenge their skills, foster professional growth, network, and celebrate the healing art of massage therapy. “The participation and success of our therapists reflect The Lodge at Woodloch’s commitment to wellness excellence and continuous professional development,” said Nancy Deaton, Spa Director at The Lodge at Woodloch. “We are proud to have such talented individuals on our team who contribute to our guests’ exceptional spa experience.” The Lodge at Woodloch invites guests to experience the expert care of its award-winning massage therapists and explore a wide array of wellness treatments nestled within 400 scenic acres of the Pocono Mountains. For more information on the Pennsylvania State Massage Championships, please visit: https://pamassagechampionship.org/.
Woodloch Resort Becomes Official Destination Partner of Penn State Athletics Woodloch, a premier family-owned and operated resort destination in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains, is thrilled to announce a dynamic five-year partnership with Penn State University Athletics and Playfly Sports, officially designating Woodloch as the Official Resort Destination of Penn State Football and Penn State Athletics. “For generations, Penn Staters have found a home away from home at Woodloch, and this partnership strengthens our deep-rooted connection with the University while allowing us to give back in meaningful ways,” said Bradley Kiesendahl, CEO and Owner of Woodloch. “From unforgettable fan experiences to supporting those battling cancer, we’re honored to align with Penn State Athletics and Playfly Sports to create lasting memories on and off the field.” This collaboration pairs Woodloch’s signature hospitality with the Penn State community through impactful initiatives, exclusive giveaways, and special events that extend well beyond the field — all while showcasing the breadth of experiences across Woodloch’s three unique properties: • Woodloch Pines, the flagship inclusive family resort known for its spirited activities, nightly entertainment, and multi-generational traditions; • Woodloch Springs, a championship golf course and residential community offering refined accommodations and scenic beauty; • And The Lodge at Woodloch, an award-winning luxury destination spa designed for personal wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Key highlights of the partnership include: • Honoring Cancer Warriors: As part of its commitment to giving back, Woodloch will provide a VIP game-day experience for a cancer patient and their guest at each home football game, offering them a memorable day in partnership with Penn State Athletics. • Happy Valley NIL Event at Woodloch: Woodloch will host a special NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) event bringing together Penn State student-athletes, fans, and key stakeholders to celebrate Penn State! • Exclusive Getaway Giveaways: Penn State fans will have the chance to win unforgettable escapes to each of Woodloch’s distinct properties. “We are thrilled to welcome Woodloch into our corporate family,” said Dan Solomon, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for Penn State Sports Enterprises. “The Pocono Mountains are a cherished region of Pennsylvania, and partnering with an Official Resort Destination from this iconic area is a natural and exciting fit. We look forward to building a successful, long-term partnership with a family-owned, first-class brand that shares our commitment to quality, tradition, and excellence.” Beginning in 2025, Penn State fans and alumni will see Woodloch featured throughout the Penn State Athletics experience — both in Happy Valley and in the Pocono Mountains — further solidifying its connection to Nittany Nation. To learn more, please visit: www.woodloch.com/penn-state.
Woodloch Selected for Nation’s First Onsite Respite Facility Two long-standing partners dedicated to providing relief and renewal for those affected by cancer are joining forces to create a transformative space – the nation’s first onsite respite facility, For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Center at Woodloch. Projected to open in 2026, this innovative center will serve more than 4,000 people annually and redefine cancer care in Pennsylvania. For nearly two decades, Montgomery County-based For Pete’s Sake Cancer RespiteFoundation has helped families take a break from cancer through meaningful, restorative experiences. Similarly, Woodloch Resort, renowned for its world-class hospitality in the Pocono Mountains, has offered family-focused getaways for over 65 years. Since 2011, the organizations have collaborated to support patients, loved ones and caregivers navigating the cancer journey. This joint venture consolidates all For Pete’s Sake’s services into one signature location in Hawley. A $3.5 million grant through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Capital Assistance Program brings the project closer to its $25 million fundraising goal, complementing significant contributions already secured. “So many of us have been touched by this terrible disease,” said Sen. Lisa Baker, a project advocate. “This infusion of state dollars is a significant investment that will help leverage the corporate, foundation, and private donations required to establish this premier complex right here in northeastern Pennsylvania.” Woodloch owner Bob Kiesendahl, a cancer survivor, understands the value of reconnecting with family and self during difficult times. “Since Woodloch’s inception, our purpose and ‘why’ has been to make the world a better place,” Kiesendahl said. “Our partnership with For Pete’s Sake was forged after our first conversation, and our shared mission has strengthened our bond over the last 13 years, bringing us to this milestone moment.” Set on 32 acres, the 34,000-square-foot campus will feature amenities designed with input from oncology professionals, addressing the emotional, financial, spiritual and physical challenges of cancer in a safe, restorative environment. Features include a dining room serving 60,000 meals annually, an art room, a chapel, yoga space, a swimming pool for water therapy and nature trails. Groundbreaking is scheduled for spring 2025, with completion in 2026. For Pete’s Sake serves adults with all cancer types, partnering with hospitals and cancer centers such as Penn Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network, St. Luke’s, Jefferson Health, Allegheny Health Network, Alliance Cancer Care, Geisinger, Fox Chase and UPMC. Patients must be nominated by their oncology team to participate. Jennifer Coleman, diagnosed with cancer in 2023, experienced the program firsthand with her family. “At that point, we didn’t know if I would respond to the treatments,” Jennifer said. “When faced with such uncertainty, it was comforting to have a beautiful place to be together, away from all the chaos of cancer, and sit with my husband simply watching our kids playing in the sun, enjoying the lake and laughing again.” A year later, Jennifer and her daughter Corrine are giving back as facilitators for new families, appreciating the profound impact of the program from both perspectives. “Our outcomes data proves that respite makes a significant therapeutic impact on patients, caregivers, and their families, strengthening communication, relationships, resilience, and quality of life,” said Marci Schankweiler, founder and CEO of For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation. “We are profoundly grateful to everyone making this dream a reality, including Gov. Shapiro, Sens. Baker and Brown, and Reps. Fritz and Olsommer.” For more information on how to get involved, please visit www.RespiteTransformed.org.
