PA Advisory Board

Vice President of Innovation and Educational Ventures at Alvernia University and the founder of Total Experience Learning®, an award-winning instructional methodology recognized nationally and internationally, including by the United Nations. She is also CEO of ConvergEd, LLC and founder of Gemalina Glass, LLC.

Adelle serves on multiple boards, including the Stanley Family Foundation Board, Reading Museum Foundation Board, Philadelphia Consortium Dedicated to Health Equity Education (CDHE) Board, PA Chamber Higher Education Council, and Visions Federal Credit Union CEO Advisory Board. 

She holds degrees in education, microbiology, and cell and molecular biology, and teaches pediatrics as an adjunct at Penn State College of Medicine.

Alex is an accomplished advocate and strategist with a strong background in public administration, community service, and strategic communications. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado Denver and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Biochemistry and Forensic Science from Alvernia University. Currently, Alex serves as the Director of Advocacy at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), where he leads the organization’s legislative agenda and strategic communications. He is responsible for shaping GRCA’s Pro-Business Policy Agenda, fostering relationships with policymakers, and managing GRCA’s advocacy presence across various platforms. His role involves engaging community stakeholders, providing crucial information on policy trends, and facilitating discussions through the Business & Community Advocacy Council. In addition to his role at GRCA, Alex works as a Strategy and Project Consultant at Sustainable Misfits, developing mission-driven organizational strategies and community-focused educational programs. His prior experience includes a significant tenure as a Project Manager at The Food Trust, where he managed nutrition education programs, developed community food access initiatives, and spearheaded projects that contributed near $250,000 annually in fresh produce to the Reading community. His expertise and contributions have been recognized through publications, including a notable study through Downtown Colorado Inc. (DCI) on local economic development and awards such as the Alumni Service Award from Alvernia University.

Alexa Wojciechowski serves as the Community Impact Lead at Brentwood Industries, where she oversees the company’s charitable giving, community impact, and educational outreach programs. This includes leadership of Brentwood Industries Gives (BIG), a key initiative focused on driving social impact through strategic philanthropy and partnerships. With over 20 years of experience in career services, workforce development, and employer relations, Alexa brings a deep understanding of how to connect educational institutions with industry needs. She continues to lead efforts to build strong student-to-workforce pipelines through internships and full-time opportunities.

Alexa holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources and Employer Relations and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare, both from Pennsylvania State University. Her work is driven by a passion for empowering the next generation of professionals and fostering inclusive, community-focused workplace cultures. At Brentwood, she plays a pivotal role in aligning the company’s outreach and giving strategies with its commitment to social impact and workforce development.

Donna Reed is a veteran journalist and civic leader with over two decades of experience in media and public service. She has contributed to regional publications such as Lehigh Valley Business Journal, Berks County Living, and LNP, and held editorial roles at The Ephrata Review and The Historical Review of Berks County. Her 23-year tenure at the Reading Eagle Company included roles as reporter, columnist, and editor.

Beyond journalism, Donna has served in key communications positions and has been deeply involved in civic leadership. A five-term member of Reading City Council, she has held the role of vice president and served on numerous committees and boards, including Crime Alert Berks County, the Pagoda Foundation, Visions FCU Advisory Board, and the Reading Planning Commission.

Donna is known for her expertise in constituent relations, investigative interviewing, and deadline-driven storytelling. Her work reflects commitment to community engagement and credible, impactful journalism.

Ellen Albright serves as the Executive Director of Communications & External Relations at the Total Experience Learning Institute at Alvernia University. Based at the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, she plays a key role in advancing immersive, hands-on educational initiatives that prepare students for real-world success.

Ellen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and brings a strong background in strategic communications, partnership development, and educational innovation to her role. She is known for her leadership in fostering collaborative relationships and promoting experiential learning across academic and community settings.

English Bradley is Chief of Staff to the City of Reading, Mayor Eddie Moran, where she helps drive collaboration, community engagement, and strategic city initiatives. Before stepping into this role, she spent several years at Berks Community Television (BCTV), serving as Acting Executive Director and Administrative Manager, where she championed local storytelling and civic connection.

Active in the community, English chairs the board of the Berks Community Action Program and serves on the board of the Reading Public Museum, Helping Harvest Berks and Schuylkill Counties, The Salvation Army of Reading, and PA Americana. She’s currently completing her bachelor’s degree in business administration at Alvernia University and is passionate about building partnerships that make Reading stronger, more inclusive, and future-focused.

Gina Martens is the Senior Vice President of Member Relations & Sales at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, where she has served for over a decade. With a background in corporate sales and hospitality, including roles at Crowne Plaza Reading and Meyer Jabara Hotels, Gina brings a strong customer-focused approach to chamber engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and serves on the Hospitality Advisory Board at Northampton Community College.

Heather Adams is the Executive Director of Berks Community Television (BCTV), where she leads efforts to expand community media and civic engagement across Berks County. Since joining BCTV in 2014, Heather has championed the empowerment of citizen content creators and broadening access to local information with innovative media platforms.

Her career spans roles in media, marketing, and community development, and she is an active volunteer with many local boards and committees. Heather is known for her visionary leadership, inclusive approach, and commitment to preserving and evolving local media.

Heather Zimmerman is the President & CEO of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, the official visitors bureau for Reading and Berks County. She leads strategic initiatives to promote tourism, cultural heritage, and economic development throughout the region. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its outreach and engagement, showcasing the area's rich history, vibrant arts, and outdoor experiences.

Heather is known for her collaborative approach, community advocacy, and dedication to enhancing the visibility and vitality of Berks County as a premier travel destination.

Janell Harakel is the Financial Controller at Runwell Solutions Inc., an IT services and consulting firm based in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania.  With a strong background in financial operations and human resources, Janell brings decades of experience in both corporate finance and total rewards.  Prior to joining Runwell, she held various leadership roles at Carpenter Technology Corporation, including Manager of Benefits and Manager of Organizational Development.

Janell is known for her analytical expertise, cross-functional leadership, and commitment to operational excellence in the tech and business services sectors.  

Dr. Jennifer Murray is a seasoned educational leader with over 25 years of experience in public education. She recently concluded her tenure as Superintendent of the Reading School District, Pennsylvania’s fourth-largest district, where she oversaw more than 17,000 students and 2,400 staff members. During her time at Reading, she spearheaded transformative initiatives such as the Early College Academy, Early Career Academy, and the READ Alliance Tutoring Program, all aimed at expanding student access to higher education, workforce readiness, and literacy support.

Dr. Murray began her career in Reading as a classroom teacher in 1999 and rose through the ranks, serving in roles including Principal, Director of Literacy, and Assistant Superintendent. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University, a Master’s in Education Administration from Gwynedd Mercy College, and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from West Chester University.

In June 2025, she transitioned to a new role as Assistant Executive Director of the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU), where she continues to champion innovation, strategic planning, and educational equity across the region.

Jeremy Zaborowski is the Executive Director of the Berks County Industrial Development Authority (BerksIDA), where he oversees land development, financing, and grant administration to drive economic growth across Berks County. Since joining BerksIDA in 2019 and stepping into the Executive Director role in 2021, Jeremy has led major initiatives including the development of Berks Park 183 and the revitalization of key commercial properties totaling over $30 million in capital investment.

Jerry Buffa is a seasoned real estate professional and the Executive Director of The Jerry Buffa Group at Coldwell Banker Realty in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. With over 20 years of experience, Jerry specializes in residential and commercial real estate, offering full-service support to buyers, sellers, investors, and renters. His team is known for delivering exceptional service and results, with over 300 successful transactions and a strong referral-based business.

Jerry holds multiple industry designations, including Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Certified Rental Agent (CRA), and Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI). He is deeply connected to the Berks County community through his involvement with the Professional Referral Exchange and applies principles from his 20+ years in martial arts to his business philosophy: treat others as you wish to be treated.

John graduated from Lehigh University in 1971 with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering. His early career included Project Management at a Fortune 500 company and a Management Consultant for Ernst and Young. John is not only a leader in the information technology industry but also within the local community. He has serves on the Board of TEC Centro and is the Chair of the Foundation for the Reading Hospital.

Julia Nickey serves as the Regional Director of Marketing and Communications for Penn State Health, where she leads high-impact campaigns that drive brand awareness, patient engagement, and community trust. With a strategic focus on measurable outcomes, Julia has successfully launched multi-channel marketing initiatives that have increased service line visibility, strengthened referral networks, and elevated Penn State Health’s presence and accessibility across Berks and Lancaster Counties.

She is known turning insights into action - aligning marketing efforts with institutional goals and delivering results that matter, from increased patient volumes to enhanced community perception.

Julia’s collaborative leadership style emphasizes the importance of forging meaningful partnerships between healthcare institutions and the communities they serve. She has cultivated strategic alliances with local colleges, private sector partners and nonprofit organizations to co-create initiatives that improve community health and well-being.

Former Pennsylvania Secretary of Education, appointed by the Honorable Governor Josh Shapiro in January 2023. Experienced Superintendent with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. Skilled in Organizational Leadership, Community Engagement, Professional Learning Communities, and Professional Development Training in Culturally Responsive Leadership. Strong operations professional in organizational leadership with a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) focused in Educational Leadership and Administration from The University of Pennsylvania.

Kristi Gage-Linderman is CEO of Gage Talent & Business Solutions, a multi-generational recruiting firm that connects thousands of people with meaningful careers each year. Under her leadership, Gage has been recognized by Forbes as a Top 200 Professional Recruiting Firm in America for three consecutive years.

A third-generation business leader and passionate community advocate, Kristi is deeply committed to workforce development, talent acquisition, and sustainable growth. She serves on several regional boards, including the Reading Hospital Foundation, RACC Foundation, Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, Literacy Council, and more, championing education, workforce training, philanthropy, and opportunities that help both people and businesses thrive. Kristi has been recognized as a Career Ready PA Coalition Champion and one of Lehigh Valley Business’s Women of Influence, reflecting her dedication to strengthening both her industry and her community.

Kirsten Deysher serves as the Director of Strategic Relationships and Business Development at Entech Engineering, Inc., an engineering and consulting firm headquarter in Reading, PA. 

Dedicated to building strong client relationships, driving revenue growth and advancing community, Kirsten has over 20 years of diverse experience in marketing, communications, client relationship management, and business development, including managing her own marketing solutions firm. At Entech, Kirsten is an integral leader in strategy development and implementation, business relations, and client experience initiatives.

A champion for the region, Kirsten is engaged on numerous industry and non-profit boards and committees, actively contributing to organizational advancement through major development campaigns, rebranding initiatives, real estate purchases, leadership transitions, and new service and program expansion. 

Levi Landis is a nonprofit executive, educator, and multidisciplinary artist with over 23 years of experience in arts administration and community engagement. He currently serves as Executive Director of GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, one of the nation’s largest interactive art centers, where he leads transformative programs reaching hundreds of thousands annually.

Levi is also the Founder and CEO of Floating Festivals, and teaches nonprofit leadership at Villanova University and Albright College. His previous leadership roles include the Philadelphia Folksong Society and The Center for Art in Wood, reflecting a career dedicated to cultural enrichment and organizational excellence.

President and CEO of the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA), Berks County’s leading business resource for economic development, advocacy, and community revitalization. In this role, she oversees initiatives that support business expansion, project funding, redevelopment, workforce development, and strategic partnerships across the region.

Lucine brings over two decades of experience in community and economic development, public service, and small business ownership. Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to integrity, collaboration, and sustainable growth. Prior to joining GRCA, she served as a Berks County Commissioner, a Reading City Council member (including two terms as Vice President), and was the first female President of the Berks Agricultural Resource Network.

She is also a past President of the Friends of Reading Hospital and currently serves as a Trustee of Alvernia University. Alongside her husband, Lucine co-owns the Great American Creamery in downtown Reading, bringing firsthand entrepreneurial insight to her work at GRCA.

Michael A. Mullen, CVA, M&AMI, is a Senior Vice President at Murphy McCormack Capital Advisors, where he specializes in strategic management, finance, and business valuation. With over two decades of leadership experience, Michael previously served as President of North American Operations for SFS Group USA, Inc., and as CFO/Vice President of Finance at Construction Fasteners, Inc.

He holds a degree from Boston College and has earned the designations of Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) and Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI). Based in Reading, Pennsylvania, Michael is recognized for his expertise in organizational leadership and M&A advisory.

Michael is the President & CEO of the Centro Hispano in Reading PA. A lifelong resident of Berks County, he has served in this capacity since 2010.  Michael’s commitment to the community that he lives, works, and raises his family in is evident in his community engagement efforts in the city with a focus on helping to lift vulnerable families out of poverty in the city of Reading.

Under Michael guidance the Centro Hispano has become an integral community partner and convener meeting the needs of the growing Latino population in Reading and Berks County.  From providing social services support to the most vulnerable to addressing meal insecurity by preparing over 3,000 meals daily the Centro is leading positive collective impact in Greater Reading.      

Locally Michael serves on the Board of Trustees at Reading Area Community College, the Berks Business Education Coalition, and the Foundation of the Reading Hospital. 

Prior to Michael’s commitment to serving our Greater Reading community in the nonprofit sector, his professional career included sixteen years of professional banking experience in Berks County. 

Director of Sales for Wholesale Markets at East Penn Manufacturing, one of the largest battery manufacturers in the world. Based in Lyon Station, Pennsylvania, Mike has been with East Penn since 2010, bringing over a decade of leadership in sales strategy, client relations, and market development.

With prior experience at Deka Batteries and a strong background in wholesale distribution, Mike plays a key role in expanding East Penn’s reach across automotive, commercial, marine, and industrial sectors. His work supports the company’s mission to deliver high-quality, reliable energy solutions to customers nationwide.

Mindy McIntosh is the newly appointed Director of Development at Berks Encore, where she leads the organization’s fundraising, special events, and communications efforts. She brings more than 30 years of nonprofit experience, including eight years with Safe Berks and 24 years with The Children’s Home of Reading.

Originally from upstate New York, Mindy earned degrees from SUNY Sullivan and SUNY Oswego before moving to Reading in 1993 to begin her career in the nonprofit sector.

Deeply engaged in the community, Mindy serves on the Visions Federal Credit Union CEO Advisory Committee and sits on the Board of Directors for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (Berks Regional Chapter), where she co-chairs the annual National Philanthropy Day Breakfast. She is also a board member for New Journey Community Outreach and the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks.

Mindy has three adult daughters—Rachel, Megan, and Jessica—loves to travel (having visited 40 states and several countries), and is perhaps best known for her love of sunrises and the beach.

Co-Founder and Co-Owner of EBC Printing & Signs, a full-service commercial print and marketing firm based in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Since launching the business in 2002 with his brother Mustafa, Murtaza has helped grow EBC from a small pack-and-ship storefront into a dynamic hub for design, printing, signage, mailing, and promotional services that supports businesses across the Lehigh Valley.

Originally from Tanzania, Murtaza immigrated to the U.S. in the late 1990s to pursue higher education, earning his degree from Penn State Lehigh Valley. His entrepreneurial journey is rooted in a strong belief in relationship-building, community engagement, and customer service excellence.

Murtaza is a highly active member of the local business and civic community. He represents EBC at regional events and trade shows, and serves on several boards, including the Board of Trustees at Cedar Crest College, the Foundation Board for Lehigh Carbon Community College, Ambassadors Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Advisory Board for Visions FCU. He is also a member of the Al-Ahad Islamic Center, where he participates in cultural and community activities.

Rachael Romig is the owner of Just Breathe. Weddings & Events, where she brings creativity, precision, and a personal touch to planning unforgettable celebrations. With a strong background in community engagement and event leadership, Rachael previously served as Development Director at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts and as Senior Director of Business Development, Special Programs, Events & Annual Giving at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, where she helped grow initiatives like Women2Women.

She has served on the Board of Directors at Safe Berks, and is a current member of Visions FCU’s Advisory Board; continuing her commitment to empowering and uplifting her community through both professional and volunteer efforts.

Rosa Julia Parra is a bilingual entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and community leader. She is the founder of Palo Magazine, a bi-lingual publication created to bridge the gap between English and Spanish speakers in Reading, PA, and beyond. Rosa also leads Palo Graphics, Palo Homes, and manages multiple Airbnb properties in Puerto Rico under Casa Palo LLC.

A strong advocate for personal growth and manifestation, Rosa hosts the annual Palo Vision Board event and serves on various advisory boards supporting small businesses, the arts, and the Latino community. With a background in banking and over 20 years of experience in design and publishing, Rosa is known for her authenticity, leadership, and deep commitment to empowering others.

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Rosa Julia Parra es una emprendedora bilingüe, oradora motivacional y líder comunitaria. Es fundadora de Palo Magazine, una revista bilingüe creada para cerrar la brecha entre los hablantes de inglés y español en Reading, PA y más allá. También dirige Palo Graphics, Palo Homes y administra varias propiedades de Airbnb en Puerto Rico bajo Casa Palo LLC.

Fiel creyente en el crecimiento personal y la manifestación, Rosa organiza el evento anual Palo Vision Board y forma parte de varias juntas asesoras que apoyan a pequeñas empresas, las artes y la comunidad latina. Con experiencia en la banca y más de 20 años en diseño y publicación, Rosa es reconocida por su autenticidad, liderazgo y compromiso con empoderar a los demás.

Sarah McDaniel has built a formidable career as a disruptor in the recreational vehicle and commercial office furniture industries. Starting her career in a conventional setting, she quickly realized the importance of aligning revenue generation with operational effectiveness. Known for challenging the status quo, she advocates for transformative change in systems often plagued by inefficiency and waste.

Since transitioning to health insurance, Sarah works as a benefits consultant for companies ranging from 300 to 8,000 employees. In witnessing systemic flaws firsthand as both a patient and a business leader with P&L responsibility, she was inspired to help return healthcare to its original mission of improving lives. 

Sarah recognizes that traditional healthcare strategies often fall short of meeting the critical needs of businesses and their employees, and champions data-driven decision-making and analytics to identify gaps in care and optimize resource allocation. In a complex, often opaque system prone to price gouging, she empowers businesses to take control of healthcare spending.

Stacey Taylor, a native of Reading, Pennsylvania, is deeply rooted in family and community—both of which remain the cornerstone of her life and a continual source of inspiration.

A graduate of Wilson Senior High School and Albright College, Stacey earned her degree in accounting and is an alumna of the Leadership Berks program.

Since August 2023, Stacey has served as President of the NAACP Pennsylvania State Conference and was re-elected in 2025 to continue leading the organization’s statewide efforts toward equity, justice, and civic empowerment. She has also faithfully served as President of the Reading Branch of the NAACP for the past 11 years, where she continues to champion social justice, youth engagement, and community development.

In addition to her leadership within the NAACP, Stacey serves on the boards of the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, Berks History Center, Bring the Change, Berks Housing Opportunity Inc., and Juneteenth Reading PA. She also serves as an Advisory Council Member for Visions Federal Credit Union, where she helps strengthen community partnerships and promote financial empowerment.

Grounded in her faith and guided by a spirit of servant leadership, Stacey has served as Secretary for the Pennsylvania State Baptist Congress of Christian Education in the Central Region since 2005.

In her free time, Stacey enjoys traveling, dining out, and spending quality time with her family. Among her most memorable experiences was a recent journey to Africa—visiting Kenya, Nairobi, and Egypt—with her mother, daughter Anshawnece, and close friends.

Stacey strives to leave a legacy of service, empowerment, and inspiration. She lives by the words of Howard Thurman: “Never reduce your dreams to the level of the event which is your immediate experience…the things you are confronting now must not exhaust from the palette of colors from which you draw in order to paint your picture on the canvas of history.”

Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Santander Arena & Performing Arts Center and the ECHL Reading Royals, a proud AA affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms. She began her career in the nonprofit performing arts world, where her passion for collaboration fueled a path from tour management and box office to group sales, premium hospitality, and ultimately, partnerships. With over a decade of experience in sports marketing, hospitality, and sponsorship, Tammy now specializes in building creative, community-driven partnerships that deliver real value for both brands and fans. Known for blending strategic vision with grassroots execution, she’s led initiatives that drive revenue, deepen engagement, and elevate the fan experience. Outside of work, Tammy is a volunteer for Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County and the GRCA’s Women2Women. At home she’s wife to her incredibly supportive husband Brandon and Mom to two “mini-me’s” – Grace and Brooke.

Executive Director of the Berks Business Education Coalition (BBEC), a non-profit organization founded in 1992 to strengthen the connection between business and education, ensuring students are better prepared for careers after graduation. A graduate of Penn State University with a B.S. in Secondary Education in Mathematics, Terri brings over 25 years of experience in sales and marketing, working closely with businesses across Berks County and surrounding areas. She is a certified facilitator with the Proctor-Gallagher Institute and has held leadership roles in Rotary and the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA). In 2020, she launched Two Hills Consulting to support professionals navigating career transitions.

Terri played a pivotal role in co-developing the Emerging Entrepreneurs Academy (EEA) alongside Gary Seibert of the Small Business Resource Association. Through a partnership with the BCIU’s Career Ready Berks initiative, the EEA launched its first cohort in 2022, offering students hands-on learning and internship opportunities with local business owners. Terri finds her greatest professional fulfillment in creating connections that strengthen the community. Outside of her work, she cherishes time with her family, enjoys reading, and isn’t shy about dancing like no one is watching. She continues to support her community through Rotary and service on local advisory boards.

Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Berks County, where he leads efforts to expand affordable housing and revitalize neighborhoods. With a background in law enforcement and public safety, Tim brings over 20 years of leadership experience to his role. He has secured major funding and led transformative projects like the Buttonwood Gateway initiative in Reading, PA. A graduate of Alvernia University, Tim is deeply committed to community development and empowering families through homeownership.

Executive Director of Berks Arts, a role she assumed in June 2024 after serving as Event Operations Director. A lifelong resident of Reading, PA, Tish brings decades of experience in event production and community engagement, including 18 years of volunteer work with Berks Jazz Fest. Prior to joining Berks Arts full-time, she retired from R.M. Palmer Candy Co. after a 30-year career and transitioned into arts and festival operations, including roles at Rehoboth Beach and Low Country Jazz Fests. Her leadership is driven by a passion for music, community, and creating meaningful cultural experiences.