Health Sciences
Faculty

Applied Health Studies

Dr. Michael P. Covone, Ed.D., RT(R), CT

Associate Professor, Applied Health Studies; Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)
Michael P. Covone
  • Education
    • M.Ed., The Pennsylvania State University
    • Baccalaureate Degree, La Roche College
    • Allegheny Valley School of Radiography training
    • Board Certified
  • Academic Experience
    • Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences, Pennsylvania College of Technology
  • Work Experience
    • Allegheny Valley Hospital & St. Margaret Memorial Hospital - Associate Director for Western Pennsylvania Home Health Network, Inc.

Prime reviewer for the following texts: Radiation Protection in Medical Radiography 5th ed., and Fundamentals of Special Radiographic Procedures 5th ed. Reviewer for many medical terminology textbooks.

Dr. Tina Marie Evans, Ph.D. ATC

Department Head, Associate Professor, Applied Health Studies
Tina Evans

Dr. Evans is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Marywood University with an undergraduate major in Sports Medicine, and of King’s College with a Master’s degree in Health Care Administration. She received her Doctorate in Health Promotion in December 2004 from Marywood, and was honored as the valedictorian of her doctoral class with a 4.00 G.P.A. She is the recipient of several regional, national and international scholarship and research grant awards, and has published and presented in many prestigious medical journals and professional conferences in her specialty area. Dr. Evans joined the Penn College faculty in August 2005, and serves as Department Head of Applied Health Studies.

Dental Hygiene

Tammy S. Clossen, RDH, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene
Tammy S. Clossen

Barbara Emert-Baldwin, RDH, M.Ed.

Instructor, Dental Hygiene

Rae Ann Karichner, RDH, BS, MS

Associate Professor, Dental Hygiene

Shawn A. Kiser, RDH, M.Ed.

Director of Dental Hygiene
Shawn A. Kiser

Ida Kohler

Clinic Receptionist/Secretary

Debra Paucke

Infection Control Technician

Karen Rishcoff

Secretary to the Director of Dental Hygiene & Director of Radiography

Mary Jo Saxe, RDH, MHA

Associate Professor, Dental Hygiene

Marie G. Smith, RDH, MS

Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene

Emergency Medical Services/Paramedic

Brady L. Breon, M.S., NREMT-P

Instructor, Paramedic Program
Brady L. Breon
  • Education
    • M.S., Health Services Administration, University of St. Francis
    • B.S., Health Sciences, University of St. Francis, 2004
    • A.A.S., Paramedic Emphasis, Pennsylvania College of Technology, 2000
    • Graduate, The Williamsport Hospital & Medical Center Paramedic Training Institute, 1985
  • Academic Experience
    • 2003-present, Instructor, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • 1987-present, Teaching student paramedics in the clinical and field setting.
    • ACLS, PALS, BCLS, EMT Instructor
  • Work Experience
    • 2006-present, As the EMS OperationsManager for Jersey Shore Emergency Medical Services.
    • 2005-present,As a flight paramedic with Geisinger Health System providingpre-hospital care as part of a medical helicopter flight crew
    • 2000-2005, As a pre-hospital supervisor (platoon chief) for the Susquehanna Health System overseeing daily field operations
    • 1987-present, As a paramedic for the Susquehanna Health System providing pre-hospital care and precepting students
    • 1985-1987, As paramedic for Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Company providing pre-hospital advanced life support care
    • 1985-present, As a paramedic for Jersey Shore Area EMS providing pre-hospital advanced Life support care
    • 1984-1985, As a paramedic for Lock Haven Hospital providing pre-hospital advanced life support care
    • 1980-present,Function in the volunteer fire service, since 1996 have been serving asfire chief for the Waterville Volunteer Fire Company
  • Awards & Certifications
    • 2005, Pennsylvania Health Services Council "Pennsylvania Paramedic of the Year"
  • Duties
    • Provide didactic, clinical, preclinical, and laboratory instruction as a primary instructor and evaluate student performance in Paramedic courses offered.
    • Write and update course syllabi; assist with curriculum review, revision, and development.
    • Assume responsibility for preclinical and clinical laboratory development, coordination, and maintenance as needed.

Mindy L. Carr, B.S.N., M.Ed.

Clinical Director, Paramedic Program
Mindy L. Carr
  • Education
    • Master's Degree (Education), Pennsylvania State University, 2008
    • Baccalaureate Degree (BSN), Pennsylvania College of Technology, 1999
    • Certificate in Nursing Management, The Pennsylvania State University, 1990
    • Diploma in Nursing (RN), Pottsville School of Nursing, 1975
  • Academic Experience
    • BCLS, Neonatal Resuscitation Instructor
  • Work Experience
    • ACLS, PALS, Neonatal Resuscitation provider
    • 1991-present, Pediatric Nursing Management
    • 1976-present,A Registered Nurse (RN) with experience in the following settings:Pediatric medical/surgical, Pediatric ICU, Neonatal ICU, Pediatric and neonatal retrieval team (ground and flight), Psychiatric Unit, AdultICU/CCU, Adult medical/surgical
  • Duties
    • Responsible for the development of the clinical practice sites for the Paramedic Technology students.
    • Organizes and directs the hospital and field clinical rotations, and functions as the primary evaluator of paramedic students in the hospital clinical setting.
    • Coordinates the clinical and classroom education.
    • Instructs students in the classroom and hospital clinical setting.

Dr. Gregory R. Frailey, D.O., FACOEP

Medical Director, Paramedic Program
Dr. Gregory R. Frailey
  • Education
    • D.O., Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, 1984
    • B.S., Premedicine, Pennsylvania State University, 1977
    • Board Certification/Specialty: Emergency Medicine/Emergency Medical Services
  • Work Experience
    • Flight Surgeon, United States Navy, 1985-2005
    • Emergency Physician, Assistant Director of EMS, Guthrie Clinic, Sayre, Pa., 1990-1992
    • Emergency Physician, EMS Medical Director, Susquehanna Health/Susquehanna Regional EMS, 1992-Present.
  • Duties
    • Review and evaluate program curriculum and course content to make recommendations to the paramedic program.
    • Assist in establishing and maintaining relationships with area health providers for the purpose of developing and supporting clinical affiliations, program enrollment, and program objectives.
    • Assist with development of the programs long-range plan, compliance with accreditation standards, and monitor student progress.

Bambi A. Hawkins, B.S., NREMT-P

Learning Laboratory Coordinator, Paramedic Program
Bambi A. Hawkins
  • Education
    • B.S., Applied Health Studies, Pennsylvania College of Technology, 2002
    • Graduate, The Williamsport Hospital & Medical Center Paramedic Training Institute, 1992
  • Academic Experience
    • 1998-present, Teaching student paramedics in the classroom, clinical and field setting
    • ACLS, PALS, BTLS, BCLS, EMT Instructor
  • Work Experience
    • 1993-present, As a paramedic providing pre-hospital advanced life support and precepting student paramedics
  • Duties
    • Responsible for coordinating utilization of the skills lab facilities, equipment, and resources for students.
    • Facilitates student learning activities through multimedia resources, as well as, other laboratory resources.
    • Works closely with the Director, Lab Assistant and Faculty to assure delivery of clinical, laboratory, and field instruction and testing.
    • Evaluates student performance of skill demonstrations.
    • Prepares laboratory or demonstrations and student simulations.
    • Coordinate laboratory equipment and space utilization and maintains an adequate inventory of state-of-the-art supplies and equipment.
    • Monitors student practice/progress of self-directed laboratory experiments/procedures.
    • Assists students in applying learned scientific principles to appropriate clinical simulations.

Bridgette Snyder

Secretary to the Director of Paramedic Program and Fitness

Mark A. Trueman, B.S., NREMT-P

Director of Paramedic Program
Mark A. Trueman
  • Education
    • Post-Baccalaureate Certificate – Distance Education, Pennsylvania State University, 2009.
    • Critical Care Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic (CCEMT-P), University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2002
    • B.S., Health Sciences, Lock Haven University, 1995
    • Graduate, The Williamsport Hospital & Medical Center Paramedic Training Institute, 1997
  • Academic Experience
    • 2005-present, direction of the A.A.S. in Emergency Medical Services and Certificate in Paramedic Technician majors.
    • 1999-present, Teaching student paramedics in the classroom, clinical and field setting
    • ACLS, PALS, BTLS, BCLS, EMT Instructor
  • Work Experience
    • 1997-present, As a paramedic providing pre-hospital advanced life support and precepting student paramedics
  • Duties
    • Primary responsibilities include educational leadership, student instruction, and student advising in the paramedic program.
    • Provides didactic, clinical, pre-clinical, and laboratory instruction within the paramedic program and evaluate student outcomes in paramedic courses.
    • Oversight of curriculum review, revision, and development.

Nursing

Sharon Auker

Director of Nursing

Jane Benedict, MSN, RN, CNE

Associate Professor, Medical/Surgical Nursing
Jane Benedict
  • Education
    • MSN, The Pennsylvania State University
    • BSN, College Misericordia
  • Academic Experience
    • 13 years, Penn College
    • NLNAC Program Evaluator
    • Jan. 2006-Dec. 2011, NLNAC Evaluation Review Panel Member
  • Work Experience
    • 15 years, Oncology Nursing
    • 5 years, OR Experience, Ambulatory Care
    • 2 years, Director of Nursing
    • Textbook Reviewer, Elsevier
  • Awards & Certifications
    • 2005, Teaching in Nursing Certificate, Indiana University
    • 2004-05, Who's Who Among America's Teachers
    • Member, Sigma Theta TAU
    • Member, American Academy of Distinguished Students

Kristy Bower

Secretary to Director of Nursing

Jane Donovan, MSN, RN

Associate Professor, Nursing Programs

"I graduated with my Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Portland, Oregon with an emphasis on Community Health & Psycho-social Nursing and Nursing Education. I graduated from Winona State University, Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. I primarily teach Psycho-social Nursing clinicals for the AD program and online courses for the BSN Completion program. I also teach in the four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing program and the PN program. My clinical areas of experience include Home Health, Psych, Med-Surg and Rehab nursing. I have been a nurse administrator, including starting a Home Care Agency, and have taught for 15 years in the nursing programs at Penn College."

Dianne Eberle, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Margaret Faust, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing Programs

Tushanna Habalar, BSN, RN

Learning Laboratory Coordinator, Nursing Education

Barbie Harbaugh, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs
Barbie Hoover

Melissa Hudson, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Kathleen Hyatt, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Tina M. Kline, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing Programs

Michelle Latshaw, MSN, RN

Associate Professor, Nursing Programs

Karen Martin, MSN, RN

Associate Professor, Nursing Programs
  • Education
    • MSN, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
    • BSN, The Pennsylvania State University
  • Academic Experience
    • Professor, Psychosocial Nursing & Topics in Nursing, Penn College
  • Work Experience
    • Psychiatric Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Geriatric Nursing

Dorothy Mathers, DNP, RN, CNE

Associate Professor, Nursing Programs
Dorothy Mathers

"I have been a Registered Nurse since 1975. The majority of my clinical experience is in critical care arena. I taught at Williamsport Hospital School of Nursing from 1984-88 and came to Penn College in 1991. I maintain clinical expertise by working per diem at SHS on a critical care step down unit. I am married with 4 grown children. I thoroughly enjoy my teaching career at Penn College - mainly due to the variety of students I get to know each year. Students both challenge and affirm my love for nursing and teaching. I have high expectations and standards but belief that empowerment comes from positive encouragement rather than drill sergeant negativism. Nursing is a great profession - both an art and a science! "

Dulcey Messersmith, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Laurie Minium, MSN/Ed, RNC

Instructor, Nursing Programs
  • Education
    • MSN/Ed University of Phoenix
    • BSN, Bloomsburg University
  • Academic Experience
    • Instructor, Penn College, 2006-present
  • Work Experience
    • Medical-Surgical Nursing
    • Inpatient Obstetrics
    • Labor & Delivery, OR, PACU
  • Certification & Membership
    • Certification, Inpatient Obstetrics
    • Member, Sigma Theta Tau

Ann Morrison, MSN/ED, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs
  • Education
    • 2006, MSN, University of Phoenix
    • 1998, BSN, Lycoming College
    • 1986, ASN, Mount Aloysius Junior College
  • Academic Experience
    • Jan. 2005-present, Faculty
    • Jan. 2000-Dec. 2004, Clinical Instructor
  • Work Experience
    • Acute Rehab, Adult Medical/Surgical, Telemetry, Nursing Management

Valerie Myers, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs
  • Education
    • 2009-present, pursuing Doctor of Education with Specialization in Adult Learning and Higher Education, Walden University
    • 2007 Master of Science in Nursing with Specialization in Nursing Education, Walden University
    • 1995 Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Lycoming College
  • Academic Experience
    • Jan. 2007-Aug. 2007, Clinical Instructor, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • Aug. 2007-present, Nursing Faculty, Pennsylvania College of Technology
  • Work Experience
    • Pediatric Nursing
    • Medical-Surgical Nursing
    • Home Health Nursing
    • Pediatric Nursing Educator/Staff Development 
    • Clinical Manager/Supervisor 

Carol Paulhamus

Nursing Office Assistant

Tonya Pennycoff, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Ann Reichelderfer, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs
  • Education
    • 2000, MSN, Community Health/Obstetrics, The Pennsylvania State University
    • 1982, BSN, Bloomsburg University
  • Academic Experience
    • 2001-present, Instructor, Penn College
    • 1995-2001, Nursing Lab Coordinator, Penn College
  • Work Experience
    • 23 years, Inpatient Obstetrics

Pamela Schappert, BSN, MSN, RN, CNE

Associate Professor, Maternal/Child Health Nursing

Christine Shimp, MS, RN, GNP

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Diane Smith

Assistant Director of Nursing

Terri Stone, MSN, MBA, RN

Instructor, Nursing Programs

Kay Yannaccone, MSN, RN

Instructor, Nursing Program

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Linda M. Barnes, MS Ed, OT/L Assistant

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Education
    • M.S. Ed., Wilkes University, 1990
    • B.S., Occupational Therapy, Temple University, 1980
  • Academic Experience
    • Pennsylvania College of Technology, 1987-present
  • Work Experience
    • Rehab, 4 years Acute Care and Home Health, 3 years
    • Consultant, Long Term Care, 3 years
    • Education - Part-Time - Teaching Fitness, 4 years
  • Professional Memberships

Jeanne M. Kerschner

Clinical Director, Occupational Therapy Assistant

Barbara J. Natell, MS Ed, OTR/L

Associate Professor, Director, Occupational Therapy Assistant

"The best thing for being sad, replied Merlyn, beginning to puff and blow, is to learn something.  That is the only thing that never fails…Learn why the world wags and what wags it.  That is the only thing which the mind can never exhaust, never alienate, never be tortured by, never fear or distrust, and never dream of regretting.  Learning is the thing for you.  Look at what a lot of things there are to learn…”

T.H. White
The Once and Future King

Kim Schweikart

Secretary to Director of Occupational Therapy Assistant, Surgical Technology, and Applied Health Studies

Physical Fitness Specialist

Dr. Gene L. Haupt

Assistant Professor, Physical Fitness Specialist
Dr. Gene L. Haupt
  • Education
    • Ph.D., Health Education and Exercise Science, The Pennsylvania State University
  • Academic Experience
    • Extensive experience (30+ years) teaching physical education and fitness classes, as well as coaching strength and conditioning at the college level
    • Has developed physical fitness programs aimed at enhancement of athletic performance as well as the development of health fitness
  • Work Experience
    • Member of NSCA and ACSM
    • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) by the NSCA
    • Certified Health and Fitness Instructor by the ASCM
    • Certified Club Coach by the USA Weight Training Federation

Ronald E. Kodish

Assistant Professor, Physical Fitness Specialist
Ronald E. Kodish

I have a Masters of Sport Science, with a coaching emphasis, and am the head coach of the Penn College Women's Basketball team. I am also certified as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, and have taught in the Physical Fitness Specialist Program since 2000. I live in Avis, PA, with my wife Teresa, and have two grown children, Cory and Kathryn. My philosophy of life; Age is a number, life is an attitude. LIVE every day of your life, don't just survive it!

Paul "Babe" Mayer

Associate Professor, Physical Fitness Specialist
Paul 'Babe' Mayer

Teacher of Physical Fitness and Lifetime Sport for the past 38 years. Present area of emphasis is “Biomechanics”, with experience in various other areas of personal training and exercise fitness. Honors received include: The National Association of Sports and Physical Education's 1988 National Secondary School Physical Education Teacher of the Year, the 1987 Pennsylvania Physical Education Teacher of the Year, the 1988 U. S. Eastern Regional Physical Education teacher of the Year, Lock Haven University Outstanding Alumni Award and Lycoming County Brotherhood Sportsman Award. National speaking engagements include over 100 presentations and workshops in 20 states on exercise, motivation and teacher education. His most recent presentations were at the District IV All-star Football Banquet (keynote speaker), Loyalsock Township High School Girls Basketball Awards Banquet (keynote speaker), Pennsylvania State Strength and Conditioning Clinic, Juniata College, and the Sports and Literature Association Conference held on the Penn College campus. Other related professional areas include 18 years of coaching experience and 22 years of Radio and Television Sports Broadcasting. Presently owns and directs the MAYER SPORT TRAINING CENTER specializing in training athletes of all ages.

Erin McMurray

Lab Supervisor, Physical Fitness Specialist Program

Emily Miller

Department Head, Instructor, Physical Fitness Specialist
  • Education
    • A.A.S., Physical Fitness Specialist, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • B.S., Health and Physical Fitness, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania
    • M.Ed., Education; Teaching and Learning, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania

Bridgette Snyder

Secretary to the Director of Paramedic Program and Fitness

Judy Quinti, MS, CSCS

Instructor, Physical Fitness Specialist
Judy Quinti
  • Experience
    • Joined Penn College in 2005 as faculty in Physical Fitness Specialist Program 
    • 20+ years in the field of corporate fitness and personal training 
    • Speaker at NSCA Personal Trainer Conference in March, 2009
    • Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
    • Former Competitive Power lifter

Physician Assistant

Heather Dorman, PA-C

Clinical Director, Physician Assistant
Heather Dorman

Heather Dorman is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Pennsylvania College of Technology Physician Assistant Program, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Physician Assistant studies and was the 2005 recipient of the Russell M. Trapp Professionalism Award. She subsequently worked as a full-time Physician Assistant on the trauma team at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. She was a clinical preceptor for Physician Assistant students while in practice.

Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant, Mrs. Dorman was a graduate of the Williamsport Hospital and Medical Center Paramedic Training Institute. She has been employed as a Paramedic Supervisor with Danville Ambulance Service MICU 120 since 1995. During this time, she has been a paramedic student preceptor and has served as adjunct faculty for several area Paramedic Programs.

Paula Holmes, MHSc, PA-C

Clinical Director, Physician Assistant
Paula Holmes

Paula D. Holmes  is a graduate of College Misericordia, where she earned a bachelor of science degree, and a minor in Psychology. She is a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Physician Assistant Program, earning a bachelor of science in Physician Assistant studies. Mrs. Holmes also completed a master's degree in Health Science from Nova Southeastern University. Mrs. Holmes joined the  Physician Assistant staff in June 2001.

Prior to joining the Physician Assistant staff, she practiced clinically at Geisinger Medical Center, in Danville, PA.  Mrs. Holmes is a fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), and the  Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants. She is also the Region VI representative for the PSPA. Her areas of clinical interest are Family Practice, OB, Pediatrics, and Surgery.

Christine M. Kessler, D.Ed., MMS, PA-C

Associate Professor, Physician Assistant
Christine M. Kessler

Dr. Kessler is a Cum Laude and Honors Program graduate of Saint Francis College with a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. She subsequently worked full time as a physician assistant gaining experience in a number of different clinical settings including internal medicine, outpatient and primary care, geriatrics, and corrections. During this time, she completed her Masters of Medical Science from Saint Francis College.

Her career with the Pennsylvania College of Technology began during the program's inception. She has since pursued and completed a Doctorate in Adult Education from The Pennsylvania State University. In order to maintain clinical skills, Dr. Kessler practiced as a physician assistant while working full time as a faculty member at Pennsylvania College of Technology and pursuing her doctorate. Honors have included acceptance into the Pi Lamda Theta Educational Honors Association. Educational interests include multiple intelligences theory and independent learning. Dr. Kessler maintains certification as a physician assistant by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is also certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Kathleen Mayer

Secretary, Physician Assistant Program
Kathy Mayer

Kathy Mayer joined the Penn College Physician Assistant Program in 1998. She had worked previously for Susquehanna Health Systems for ten years as a secretary at the Community Health Center. Ms. Mayer is very knowledgeable about the admissions procedures, student transfer issues and Program requirements. She is the first person to contact with questions once the website has been fully reviewed.

Susan Swank-Caschera, MMS, PA-C

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant

Susan graduated from Bucknell University where she majored in Biology and minored in Psychology. She is also a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University's Physician Assistant Program at the Milton S. Hershey Medical School. Susan helped to develop the PA Program at Penn College and has worked as a faculty member since its inception in 1996. Sue subsequently graduated from the master's of medical science program at St. Francis University. Sue has lectured throughout the United States on stress and critical incident management. In addition to her full-time faculty responsibilities, she continues to practice in an urgent care facility. She has worked clinically as a PA in the areas of Emergency Medicine, Orthopedics, Family Practice, Correctional Medicine, and Psychiatry. While in clinical practice, she was a preceptor of PA students.

Sue takes an active role in her community, volunteering in emergency services, the local schools, religious organizations, and philanthropic groups. She is a member of both AAPA and PSPA, representing and coordinating public education programs that promote the PA profession.

Holly Wandell, PA-C

Instructor, Physician Assistant

Whit Worman, PA-C

Director of Physician Assistant Program
Whit Worman

Radiography

Regis C. Kohler

Clinical Supervisor, Associate Professor, Radiography
Regis C. Kohler
  • Education
    • M.S., Bloomsburg University – Instructional Technology B.S., University of Pittsburgh – Allied Health Professions
    • Certificate in Radiologic Technology: Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital School of Radiologic Technology
  • Academic Experience
    • 1991-Present: Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • 1991 – Present:  Clinical Supervisor, Radiography, Susquehanna Health
    • 1987-1991: Clinical Coordinator – Radiography Program, Pennsylvania College of Technology (formally The Williamsport Area Community College)
    • Lecturer - District and state meetings
  • Work Experience
    • Has been working in the field of radiography since 1980.
    • Worked as a radiographer: at a trauma hospital,  small rural medical center, small community hospital, on  a mobile unit performing radiographic studies at nursing homes, prisons, state hospitals and patient homes and also have been trained and performed angiographic studies.
  • Profession Organizations
    • Board Certified:  American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
    • Radiology Advisory Board; Radiography; Pennsylvania College of Technology.
  • Awards/Honors
    • Who’s Who In American Education  2007-2008
    • Who's Who in America 2001
    • Who's Who in America's Teachers 1998 – 2000, 2006-2007
    • Who's Who in Healthcare and Medicine 1997
    • PA Society of Radiologic Technologists - former Vice-Chairperson
    • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania - Former Educational Representative for Radiography
    • American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) - Former Alternate Delegate, representing Pennsylvania

"The use of incorporating current technology into the classroom has made a real difference in the knowledge base that a student has. Technology is constantly changing as well as healthcare and how we provide that healthcare. Students at Pennsylvania College of Technology's Department of Radiography are exposed to a wide variety of state-of-the-art technologies on campus, as well as at the hospitals with which the College is affiliated. Students share their knowledge with faculty, staff and fellow students. Education is a lifelong process and we can all learn from each other."

"I have been in the field of radiography since 1980, and have seen the changes in education and healthcare. I believe that Pennsylvania College of Technology offers a very comprehensive Radiography major that will provide the education necessary to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists' Board Examination and be successful in life."

Karen L. Plankenhorn

Clinical Supervisor, Radiography
Karen L. Plankenhorn
  • Education
    • Associates of Applied Science in Radiography from Pennsylvania College of Technology (August 1995) – Highest Honors
    • Bachelor of Science from Pennsylvania College of Technology (May 2006) – Summa Cum Laude and Alpha Chi
  • Academic Experience
    • Instructor, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • Classes: Pediatrics and Trauma Radiography, Mammography and Interventional Procedures
  • Work Experience
    • Clinical Supervisor, Radiography at Evangelical Hospital
    • Registered Mammographer at Kathryn Candor Lundy Breast Health Center
    • Staff/Operating Room Registered Radiographer at Susquehanna Health Systems
    • Professional Organizations
    • Certified and Registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
    • Member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists
    • Past Member of the PA Society of Radiologic Technologists, Dist #5, serving as both President-Elect and President

"As a 1995 graduate of Penn College, I have had the opportunity of experiencing the challenging journey that lies ahead of every Penn College Radiography student. I believe the strength of the program is its incorporation of clinical experience simultaneously with classroom instruction throughout the entire two years. This disciplined structure is what ultimately prepares the students for their career as a Radiographer."

"It is amazing the amount of growth that both the college and the field of Radiography has undergone since I graduated. And with those changes come many opportunities for current and future Radiographers. It is a privilege to be a part of that growth; learning and teaching the most up to date technology. Our students are given the opportunity to work with new technology at their clinical sites and our new lab at the college."

"The field of Radiography is comprised of many different modalities. Although the students’ main focus in this program is Diagnostic Radiography, they are also exposed to different modalities, learning the basics of each. This may help them to decide if they are interested in these different “branches” of technology. Should any of these modalities spark an interest, Penn College has availability for growth in several ways -- via 1) Diagnostic Medical Sonography course opportunities, 2) an affiliation with the University of Findlay Nuclear Medicine Institute, and 3) through its Bachelors of Applied Health degree, all of which could open many doors in a Radiographer’s career."

Karen Rishcoff

Secretary to the Director of Dental Hygiene & Director of Radiography

Robert Slothus

Associate Professor, Radiography; Director of Radiography
Robert Slothus
  • Education
    • M.S., The Pennsylvania State University – Health Education
    • B.S., Thomas Jefferson University – Radiologic Technology
    • Certificate in Radiologic Technology: United States Air Force
  • Academic Experience
    • Currently: Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences, Pennsylvania College of Technology
  • Work Experience
    • Has been working in the field of radiography since 1971. Career began in Radiography with the United States Air Force. Director of Penn College's Radiography Program for 32 years.
    • Teaches classes in Radiation Physics, Radiographic Exposure, Quality Assurance, CT and MRI Imaging, Cross Sectional Anatomy, Pathology, and Digital Image Acquisition and Display.
    • Registered and certified Radiographer R.T. (R) ARRT with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
  • Awards & Certifications
    • "Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers” for 2003-04.
    • Published in state, national, and international settings.
    • Personal view of the major:

"A national shortage of Radiographers and the affects of managed care has challenged our faculty and staff to review the Radiography major curriculum and National Employment opportunities, and ask the following question: what do primary health care providers want and what is the best way to educate our students to meet their requests? Our program's philosophy is to prepare radiographers based on the Joint Review Committee On Education In Radiologic Technology's Standards. In addition to meeting these prescribed standards, we have begun to enhance our existing core courses in MRI, CT and Mammography imaging and have guided our students to focus their sights on the concept of multi-competency/multi-skilled opportunities. The Department of Radiography has taken a proactive approach in meeting employer needs and has started to include more training in mammography and radiologic specific nursing skills into its 24 month curriculum. Our eight hospital affiliates have allowed us to send students into MRI and CT scanning rooms on a volunteer basis so they may choose their days and times for critical hands on scanning time. This unique hospital/college arrangement enables students with tight time restraints due to family and work requirements an opportunity to gain additional training which will help them become multi-skilled in various imaging modalities."

"The Pennsylvania College of Technology's Radiography Program is committed to meeting the never ending challenges of new managed care initiatives while maintaining its leading educational position in graduating highly competent entry level radiographers. Come visit us in Williamsport and you to will see why our program continues to have the reputation that it so deserves."

Nicole J. Tanner

Clinical Supervisor, Radiography
Nicole J. Tanner
  • Education
    • Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Studies, Pennsylvania College of Technology
    • Associate of Applied Science in Radiography, Pennsylvania College of Technology
  • Work Experience
    • Clinical Supervisor, Radiography, Mount Nittany Medical Center
    • Registered Radiographer, Susquehanna Health Systems
    • Registered Radiographer, Lock Haven Hospital CHS
  • Professional Organizations
    • Member of American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
    • Certified & Registered with American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

"I have lived in and around Jersey Shore, PA, most of my life. I am married and have two children."

"I am happy to be a clinical supervisor for Pennsylvania College of Technology. I remember being a student in the program and the things that helped me become successful. You must be willing to work hard in order to be good at anything. This is especially true when working towards your chosen career. You will receive much pleasure when you are able to help people. This is what working in the health care field is all about."

"The field of radiography is growing rapidly. Radiographers have many opportunities for growth, not only in plain radiography but also with other modalities such as CT, MRI, Radiation Therapy, etc. if you chose to further your education."

Cletus G. Waldman, Jr.

Assistant Professor, Radiography; Clinical Director
Cletus G. Waldman, Jr.

Surgical Technology

Scott Geist, MBA, CST

Director of Surgical Technology Program
Scott Geist, BS CST

I joined the Penn College team in January 2011. I have over 20 years of surgical technology experience. I graduated with a certificate in Surgical Technology in 1991 from the Naval School of Health Sciences and began working at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, where I received my National Certification as Surgical Technologist. I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Services in 2006 and continued my naval career in both surgical technology and administrative assignments. I retired from the United States Navy in 2008 and recently completed a Masters in Business Administration.

Kim Schweikart

Secretary to Director of Occupational Therapy Assistant, Surgical Technology, and Applied Health Studies

Susan Shaffer, BS, RN, CST

Instructor/Lab Director, Surgical Technology
  • Education
    • BS, University of St. Francis (1992)
    • Diploma of Nursing, Geisinger Medical Center School of Nursing (1973)
    • Surgical Technology Certificate, Williamsport Community College (1971)
    • Certified Surgical Technologist
  • Academic Experience
    • 2007-present: Instructor, Surgical Technology
  • Work Experience
    • January 2007: Part-time Instructor, Surgical Technology
    • 1996-2007: Registered Nurse/Mentor, Operating Room
    • 1989-1996: Assistant Nurse Manager/Educator, Operating Room
    • 1973-1989: Registered Nurse, Operating Room

"Having thirty-four years of operating room experience, I was given the opportunity to become an instructor in the Surgical Technology program. I find teaching and sharing my OR experiences with my students very rewarding and challenging."

Elizabeth Shively, BS, RN, CST

Clinical Director, Surgical Technology

"I have been a member of the Penn College community since 1997, both as a student and as an employee. I graduated with a certificate in Surgical Technology in 1999 and began working at a local hospital. I became a registered nurse in 2004 and continued to work in an operating room setting. In 2005, I began my work in Penn College’s Surgical Technology program. Shortly after assuming this position, I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Health Studies. While teaching, I continue to work in the field. I plan to continue teaching and imparting the valuable skills I learn every day to future surgical technologists."

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