Our Team - PERU

PERU utilizes our diverse, multidisciplinary team to ensure that we constantly move ever-closer to our vision of facilitating each patient’s ability to achieve optimal health, well-being, recovery, and choice.

Leadership — Directors

PERU’s leadership team exemplify the principles of servant leadership by working for and alongside staff to facilitate and foster professional development and wellness. They ensure movement towards our Vision via the exceptional quality of all programs and projects.

Leadership roles include fiscal and business management, operations and human resources management, and program and project management.

Janice Pringle, PhD

PERU Founder and Director

Jan Pringle, PhD, is the founder and director of PERU, as well as a professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy. Dr. Pringle is an epidemiologist by training, with extensive experience in health services research. She has conducted numerous health services research studies and program evaluation efforts involving, but not limited to: screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT), innovative addiction treatment, intervention and prevention models, medication adherence, enhancement interventions, and patient access to care. Dr. Pringle developed a framework for assessing organizational health and guiding systems transformation, which has been used within the Veterans Health Administration, primary care practices, and integrated care practices, as well as other healthcare sites and entities. In addition, she is the co-chair of the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs’ Clinical Standards Committee. She has also developed healthcare research and briefs that have been used to inform policy development, at both the state and federal level. Throughout her career, Dr. Pringle has secured over $130 million in grants from a variety of sources. Pronouns: She/Her

Abby (Talbert) Cotton, CPH

Deputy Director, IHSI

Abby is a Deputy Director for Treatment Integration and Pharmacy Integration program areas within the Innovative Health Services Initiatives. Abby manages the implementation and evaluation of Screening, Brief-Intervention, and Referral-to-Treatment (SBIRT) and medications for opioid use disorder in multiple settings spanning the state of Pennsylvania, with a focus on primary care and pharmacy settings. Her current efforts provide support to over 12 health systems and over 30 healthcare sites. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Alli Clevenger, MPH

Deputy Director, IHSI

Alli Clevenger, MPH, is a Deputy Director within Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She manages COMMIT Program, SUPPORT Program, Project ARTEMIS, Washington Health System SBIRT ED Project, and the Fulton County SBIRT ED Projects. She has extensive experience using data collection and analysis to develop actionable, data-informed recommendations and implement intervention and prevention strategies through legislative, policy, and practice change. She has nearly ten years of experience designing, managing, and evaluating evidence-based public health programs for vulnerable populations at global, state, and local levels. Alli earned her Master of Public Health from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Business from James Madison University. Alli enjoys doing any and all outdoor activities with her husband and two dogs, Jax and Sadie. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Annette Mich, MS

Director, System Transformation Support

Annette Mich, MS, is Director of System Transformation Support across all PERU projects. Annette earned a Master of Science from Rush University and a Bachelor of Science from The Pennsylvania State University. Annette has devoted her career to system design and improvement as a means to helping people succeed at work that has meaning to them. Annette met her husband at and sent her children to Penn State. She Hails to Pitt except when the Nittany Lions take on the Pitt Panthers in football. Pronouns: She/Her

Brenda Hall Sciulli, BA, OCPC

Deputy Director, CHI

Brenda Hall Sciulli, BA, OCPC. is a Deputy Director of CHI Portfolio. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Individual Family Studies from Kent State University. Currently, Brenda supports Program Managers and coordinates multiple projects across the CHI Portfolio. Brenda has over 23 years of experience working in the field of Prevention and Coalition Building. She also enjoys spending time with her family, including 3 dogs, and being outdoors.

Debra Moore, PhD

Director, Program Evaluation and Quality Improvement

Debra Moore, PhD, MA is the Director, Program Evaluation and Quality Improvement. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Research Methodology and Master of Arts in Research Methodology from University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Music Education from University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Debra has 14 years experience in program evaluation, measurement, research design, and data analysis across a variety of contexts. Staying true to her musical roots, Debra directs vocal and handbell choirs, and performs as often as possible. Pronouns: She/Her

Jonathan Walkush, MBA

Director of Operations

Jonathan Walkush, MBA, is PERU's Director of Operations. He earned an Masters of Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. Jonathan has 25 years of experience in public sector administration. Jonathan loves to travel and can mangle phrases in over ten languages. Pronouns: He/Him

Lisa Sipusic, MPPM

Director of Training and Communications

Lisa Sipusic, MPPM, is the Senior Manager of Training and Communications and works across PERU projects. She earned a Master of Public Policy and Management from University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from The Pennsylvania State University. Lisa has more than 18 years of experience working in the health care industry in areas such as marketing and communications, project management, and product development. Lisa enjoys being active and loves to roller skate and travel with her daughter. Pronouns: She/Her

Latonya Latamore, PhD, MS

Senior Equity Specialist

Latonya Latamore, PhD, MS, is PERU’s Senior Equity Specialist and works across portfolios. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration: Management from University of Michigan – Dearborn, Master of Science: Finance from Walsh College, and a Doctorate: Public Administration and Public Policy from Walden University. Latonya has 20 years of experience working in human services, in the areas of workforce development, education, transportation, and community development advocacy. She enjoys traveling and is a lifetime learner. Latonya enjoys watching figure skating and supporting her daughter who is a competitive figure skater. Pronouns: She/Her

Lois Hilty

Operations Manager

Lori Lawrence, MBA, MS, LPC

Deputy Director, Community Health Initiatives (CHI) Criminal Justice

Lori Lawrence, MS, LPC, is the Deputy Director, Community Health Initiatives Criminal Justice. She earned a Bachelor of Arts: Psychology from Ohio University, Master of Science: Psychology from Chatham University and a Master in Business Administration: Strategic Leadership and Globalization from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Lori has over 15 years of leadership and management experience in the behavioral health industry with a focus on individual, organizational and system change. She loves to walk and/or jog on the city’s trails, cook, go to food festivals to try new cuisine, and practice baking with her daughter. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Poonam Alaigh, MD

Director of Innovation

Poonam Alaigh, MS, MD, is the Director of Innovation for PERU. Poonam has worked in a variety of high-level healthcare administration and policy roles. Most notably: Acting Under Secretary of Health and Senior Advisor for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Medical Director for GlaxoSmithKline and Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, and as Commissioner for the Commission of Health and Senior Services for New Jersey. As PERU’s Director of Innovation, Poonam identifies best practices and emerging healthcare trends. Poonam works with healthcare leaders in both the government and private sector to enhance PERU’s capabilities and offerings and ensure its growth. Poonam earned her Doctor of Medicine and Master of Science in Health Care Policy and Management from Stony Brook University. Poonam is a Six Sigma Black Belt and mom.

Rachel Hersh, RN, MS

Portfolio Director, Community Health Initiatives

Rachel Hersh, MSN, RN, is the Director of Community Health Initiatives (CHI). She earned her BSN and MSN in Public Health and is currently enrolled at Tulane University in the Doctor of Public Health program in Leadership, Equity, and Advocacy. She has dedicated her professional career to serving marginalized and economically at-risk communities. She is passionate about the health and cultural wellness of vulnerable communities. Through her work with external, internal, and telemedicine health teams she has been instrumental in designing and implementing multiple integrated clinical and community service lines to improve access to care and reduce barriers found in primary medical, oral health, and mental health systems. Her strengths are synthesizing information from a wide range of subject areas, spotting unseen patterns, connecting the dots inside complex bodies of knowledge, and noticing where systems overlap in order to envision an organization’s preferred mission and vision-based future. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Reina Wang, PhD

Scientific Data Director

Reina Wang, PhD, is PERU's Scientific Data Director. She earned a PhD: Rehabilitation science with a concentration in health information management From University of Pittsburgh. Reina's areas of expertise include healthcare informatics, data analytics, and telehealth. Her particular strengths is in bridging the gap between IT and clinical practice in various multidisciplinary environments. Reina is originally from Taiwan and moved to Pittsburgh for graduate school. Pronouns: She/Her

Renee Cloutier, PhD

Research Scientist

Dr. Renee Cloutier has joined PERU as the Research Scientist. Renee earned her PhD: Experimental Psychology from University of North Texas and interdisciplinary postdoctoral training from Penn State in prevention science and methodology. Renee supports the development and monitoring of PERU project metrics and publications and participating in the development of all grant applications. Renee has 9 years of research experience in the field of addiction, six of which involved designing and overseeing complex human studies with diverse, hard-to-reach community populations (e.g., adolescent cannabis users). Renee have received grant funding and awards from National Institute of Drug Abuse, American Psychological Association, and Research Society on Alcoholism. She is committed to using her expertise in the field of substance use and co-occurring mental health problems to support people who use substances/have substance use disorders improve their overall health and wellbeing. Renee is originally from the Adirondacks in upstate New York which inspired her love for hiking and all things outdoors. She also loves to read and travel as much as she can. Pronouns: She/Her

Sharon Sumansky, MS

Director, Innovative Health Systems Initiatives

Sharon Sumansky, MS, is the Director for Innovative Strategic Health Initiatives. She earned a Master of Science: Healthcare Administration & Ethics from St. Joseph's University. Sharon has worked in the fields of behavioral health, integrated care, homeless services, and working with vulnerable populations for 21 years. In her most recent previous position she served as the homeless services senior manager at Pittsburgh Mercy where she oversaw the award winning Operation Safety Net. Prior to this position, Sharon worked as a service coordination and specialized service coordination supervisor for ten years. In her tenure, she was instrumental in developing and significantly expanding an integrated behavioral health service delivery model for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and were also deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing, or children of deaf adults. Sharon loves soccer! She played for over 20 years and has been coaching girls soccer for over 30 years. In addition, she loves spoiling her three dogs; Bear, Ella, & Titan. Pronouns: She/Her

Matthew Phillips, BA

Executive Coordinator, Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Matthew Phillips, BA, is an Executive Coordinator and Associate Program Implementation Specialist for PERU. He earned a Bachelor of Arts: English from University of Pittsburgh. Matt has more than 20 years of experience working in communications and content development. Matt appeared as a contestant on "Jeopardy!" in 2008. He also created content for the exhibits at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, including his favorite, the reimagination of the Dinosaur Hall. Pronouns: He/Him

Michelle Hansel

Fiscal and Grants Manager

Michelle has six years of experience in coordinating and managing grant-funded projects. She has worked with funding agencies such as the U.S. Department of Education, Appalachian Regional Commission, the PA Department of Labor & Industry, and Achieving the Dream (ATD). She is a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE). Michelle spent three years as President of Sewickley Township Public Library’s Friends of the Library and has enjoyed membership on various committees supporting higher education, serving as co-chair for both Professional Development Training and United Way. Michelle enjoys visiting state and national parks with her kids. Pronouns: She/Her

Mindy Dawson

Executive Assistant to Dr. Pringle

Mindy Dawson is the Executive Assistant to Dr. Pringle. Mindy has over 15 years of experience working in the administrative field. She enjoys spending time with her family and visiting the beach. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Leadership — Managers

Brianna McDonough, MPH, CPH

Manager, Training and Instructional Design

Brianna McDonough, MPH, CPH is the Manager, Training and Instructional Design and works on Pennsylvania Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Technical Assistance (TA), Quality Improvement (QI) Improvement Expansion and Project Lifeline projects. Ms. McDonough has seven years of experience in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health initiatives. She has researched strategies for effective stakeholder communication and engagement. Ms. McDonough has implemented user-centered design processes in the development of educational tools and trainings. Ms. McDonough enjoys gardening and hiking. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Daniel Auflick, LMSW

Program Manager, Community Health Initiatives (CHI)

Daniel Auflick, LMSW, is the Program Manager for Criminal Justice within Community Health Initiatives (CHI). He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Binghamton University and a Master of Social Work from the University at Buffalo. For the last eight years, Daniel has provided both direct services and community-based programming aimed at engaging and improving health outcomes for people experiencing homelessness and substance use disorder. When not working, you can find Daniel playing with his two daughters, losing to his partner in Scrabble, or watching his beloved Arsenal Football Club. Pronouns: He/Him

Grace Drnach Bonaventura, MPH

Program Manager, Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI)

Grace Drnach Bonaventura, MPH, is the Program Manager for PA Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) within the Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She has experience working in maternal and child community health settings and adolescence substance use prevention programs in New Orleans. Grace earned her Master of Public Health from Tulane University. Grace loves baking breads, running, and playing with her two dogs. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Heather Santa, MS, MA

Program Manager, Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI)

Heather Santa, MS, MA, is the Program Manager for Capacity Development within Innovative Health Systems Initiatives (IHSI). Heather earned a Master of Science: Biology from Chatham University and a Master of Arts: Psychology from Chatham University. Heather works on projects by leading implementation, evaluation, and reporting efforts. Heather has provided substance use training and facilitated SBIRT implementation with PERU since September 2016. Heather enjoys kayaking and playing pickleball in her spare time. Pronouns: She/Her

Katherine Bedford, MA

Program Manager, Community Health Initiatives (CHI)

Katherine Bedford, MA, is a Program Manager for Program Manager, Community Health Initiatives. Katherine earned a Master of Arts: Psychology from Chatham University. Katherine has worked the last ten years in a counseling capacity working with both adolescents and adults and substance use disorder treatment. In her spare time, Katherine enjoys creating art and building furniture. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Katie Krancevich, MPH

Program Manager, Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI)

Katie Krancevich, MPH, is a Program Manager for the NW PA Veteran Suicide Prevention Program within the Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She has experience working in psychiatric, suicide, and healthy aging research. She earned her Master of Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. Katie enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her dogs. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

John Miller, MFA

Manager, Technical Writing

John Miller, MFA, is the Manager, Technical Writing and works across PERU projects. His past roles at Pitt included grant writing at the Graduate School of Public Health and the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. At the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he worked in grantee and public communications, helped launch the Giving Pledge, and managed local sponsorship grants around the Pacific Northwest. John spent three years as an English teacher in Ferrara, Italy, a place where there were more bicycles than cars.

Kiandra Foster, MPIA

Program Manager, Community Health Initiatives (CHI)

Kiandra Foster, MPIA, is a Program Manager for Community Health Initiatives with the University of Pittsburgh's Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU). She leads a team of Technical Assistance Providers that offer planning and implementation support to Pennsylvania county coalitions working to reduce overdoses. Prior to this work, Kiandra served as a Programs Director at United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, where she oversaw both intervention and prevention-focused human service delivery for low-income families, veterans, and women experiencing crisis. Her work, then and now, has been driven by her passion for demonstrating key relationships between public health infrastructure, political-economic institutions, and the well-being of those in need. Kiandra volunteers her time as the Board Chair for Sustainable Pittsburgh and the Selections Chair for the New Leaders Council’s Pittsburgh Chapter.

Kristy Rzepecki, BS

Program Manager, Community Health Initiatives (CHI)

Kristy Rzepecki, BS, is the Program Manager for SCOPE within Community Health Initatives. She earned a BS from West Liberty University in Criminal Justice with a minor in social work. Kristy joined the University in 2013 as the Sr. Title IX and Diversity Specialist. In her position, she addressed harassment and discrimination complaints; providing Title IX and diversity trainings; collaborating with students, staff, and faculty as well as the regional campuses on Title IX and diversity issues. She enjoys watching Pittsburgh sports and spending time with her daughter, Kylee. Pronouns: She/Her

Data and Analytics

Annette Werner, BA

Associate Data Manager

Annette Werner, BA, is an Associate Data Manager for PERU. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Philosophy of Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Before coming to PERU, Annette worked as a Research Assistant for the Department of Biostatistics for 6 years and as a Research Data Manager for the Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics for nearly 12 years. Annette has many crafty hobbies and used to sell her handmade jewelry. Pronouns: She/Her

Deborah Sprowls, BS

Associate Data Manager

Deborah Sprowls, BS, is an Associate Data Manager. She earned a Bachelor of Science: Accounting from Penn State University. Deborah previously worked at a public school district for 18 years, in which 8 of those years she was the Database Technician. Prior to working at the school, she worked for an accounting firm and non-profit organizations as their Finance Director. Deb loves to go hiking and some of her favorite places are Acadia National Park and the Grand Canyon. She also loves to take groups to Israel! Her family is her ultimate love and she enjoys spending time with them.

Dylan Pieper, MA

Associate Data Analyst

Dylan Pieper, MA, is an Associate Data Analyst. He earned a Master of Arts: Psychology from University of Northern Iowa. Dylan has experience in social psychology research, data analysis and visualization, and journal publication. Dylan lives in Wisconsin and loves to soar the bluffs on his paraglider. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Joshua Hoffman, BA

Assistant Data Manager

Joshua Hoffman, BA, is an Assistant Data Manager for the MAT Training Grants and Project Lifeline within Innovative Health SystemsInitiatives (IHSI). He earned a Bachelor of Arts: Public Policy from the University of Michigan.Josh is originally from Maryland but visited Pittsburgh multiple times a year growing up to see his grandmother. He is happy to now call Pittsburgh his home! Pronouns: He/Him

Lara Konefal-Shaer, MS

Senior Data Analyst

Lara Konefal-Shaer, MS, is an Senior Data Analyst across PERU projects. She earned a Masters of Science: Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelors of Arts: History and Political Science from Duquesne University. Lara has 3 years experience working with data in the non-profit field. She plays violin with the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra. Pronouns: She/Her

Riley O'Neill, BS

Assistant Informatics Analyst

Riley O’Neill, BS, is an Assistant Informatics Analyst within the Data and Analytics functional group. Riley earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Science from University of Pittsburgh. Riley has experience working in front end IT support and is a lifelong Pittsburgh native. Pronouns: He/Him

Evaluation and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

Audrey Wong

Assistant Evaluation Specialist

Jesse Dubin, MPH

Senior Program Evaluation Specialist

Jesse Dubin, MPH, is an Senior Program Evaluation Specialist. Jesse earned their BA: Hispanic Languages and Literatures from University of Pittsburgh and Master of Public Health from Boston University. They specialize in social justice work, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary and intersectional analyses at the structural and systemic level. Using these analyses also allows us to understand how problems that appear to be the domain of individual or interpersonal interventions alone may actually be symptomatic manifestations of larger, structural problems. Jesse has over 6 years of public health research experience, working in both Spanish and English. They are originally from Central Jersey and have run 2 marathons, the most recent of which was the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2019. Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs

Joseph McNeill, MA

Associate Program Evaluation Specialist

Joseph McNeill, MA, is an Associate Program Evaluation Specialist focused on Community Health Initiatives projects. He earned an Associate Degree in General Studies from Potomac State University of West Virginia, a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from West Virginia University, and a Master of Arts in Program Evaluation and Research from West Virginia University. Joseph has three years of evaluation experience working on projects involving research apprenticeship programs, collegiate recovery programs, and government-funded health programs and projects. Joseph also has a research background in educational psychology, machine learning, and harm reduction. Joseph is a competitive powerlifter. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Joshua O'Malley, MA

Associate Program Evaluation Specialist

Joshua O'Malley, MA, is an Associate Program Evaluation Specialist with the Evaluation and Quality Improvement (EQI) functional group. He earned his Master of Arts in Research Methodology from the University of Pittsburgh School of Education and was a student fellow with the Office of Child Development where he participated in research with its Evaluation and Research team. His previous professional role at the School of Education involved supporting students, staff, and faculty at the School of Education focusing on records and graduation. Joshua worked in arts administration for seven years before joining the University of Pittsburgh. He enjoys time with family and gardening. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Rahul Amruthapuri, DrPH

Senior Program Evaluation Specialist

Rahul Amruthapuri, MPH, is a Senior Program Evaluation Specialist. He earned Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka, Master of Public Health in Field Epidemiology from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi, and a Doctor of Public Health in Behavioral and Community Health Sciences from University of Pittsburgh. Rahul has eight years of experience working within and outside the United States. Before coming to Pittsburgh he worked with a team implementing a year-long community health fellowship program in Bengaluru, India. At Pitt he worked he worked as a graduate student researcher with the Center for Health Equity and as a teaching assistant for various courses. Rahul likes to try a new restaurant each weekend. Pronouns: He/Him

Training and Communications

Alexis Waksmunski, MPIA

Associate Training Coordinator

Alexis Waksmunski, MPIA, is an Associate Training Coordinator who works primarily on SCOPE Statewide within Community Health Initiatives. Alexis earned a Master of Public and International Affairs (MPIA) from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, and a bachelor of Arts in Politics with a minor in Peace and Conflict Studies. Alexis began working at PERU in 2018 where she contributed to the Centers of Excellence project as a Technical Assistance provider. In 2019, Alexis began working with Veterans Affairs Initiatives team. Prior to arriving at PERU, Alexis worked with the Matthew B. Ridgway Center for International Security Studies on cyber security and nuclear proliferation projects. Alexis is a fraternal triplet. Pronouns: She/Her

Ellie Scheiner, MS

Associate Technical Writer

Ellie Schneier, MS is an Associate Technical Writer and works across PERU projects.

Jennifer Palmquist, MEd

Senior Training Coordinator

Jennifer Palmquist, MEd, is an Senior Training Coordinator for Strategies for Coordinating Overdose Prevention Efforts (SCOPE) within Community Health Initiatives (CHI). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in music, Master of STEM Education, and a Teaching Certification K-6 from California University of Pennsylvania. Jennifer has over seven years of experience developing, facilitating, and evaluating curriculum and programming including professional development for diverse groups of people from varying ages and backgrounds. She also has considerable experience in customer service. Jennifer loves anything and everything Disney and took part in the Disney College Program where she enjoyed working in Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. She loves spending time with her husband, their new baby girl, and their two cats, Minnie and Baymax.

Kate Cridlebaugh, BS

Associate Instructional Designer

Kate Cridlebaugh, BS is an Associate Instructional Designer and works across PERU projects. They earned a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education from Portland State University. For three years, Kate educated students on health insurance and improved/facilitated access to LGBTQ+ health resources in Oregon. Kate starts each morning with a home pulled, free-trade, single origin espresso next to their cats Ira and Miso. Pronouns: They/She

Katrin Fieser, CRS, CFRS, CPS, NCPRSS, MSW

Associate Training Coordinator

Katrin “Kat” Fieser, CRS, CFRS, CPS, NCPRSS, is an Associate Training Coordinator currently working on SCOPE within CHI. She earned a Master of Social Work: from Edinboro University. Kat has an extensive history working with individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder. Kat has two daughters and 3 dogs that fill her days with laughter and joy. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Laura Zurowski, EdM

Senior Technical Writer

Laura Zurowski, EdM, is an Senior Technical Writer with the Training and Communications functional group. Laura earned a Masters of Education in Administration, Planning and Social Policy, from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education, a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Emerson College, and a Professional Certificate in Clinical Research Administration from Emmanuel College. Laura has worked in higher education writing and communications since 2001. Laura is originally from Providence, RI and moved to Pittsburgh in 2012. Pronouns: She/Her

Marty Landolina, MEd

Senior Training Coordinator

Marty Landolina, MEd, is a Senior Training Coordinator and works on projects across PERU. Marty has over 35 years of experience in training related to behavior change, trauma informed care, health and wellness, and program improvement. Marty enjoys her rescued dog Brutus and cat Ash who never fail to provide daily challenges and laughs! Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Susan Fisher, MUP

Associate Communications Specialist

Susan Fisher, MUP, is an Associate Communications Specialist who works on the Centers of Excellence (COE) and administrative projects. Susan has 20+ years of project management experience. She enjoys spending time with her family. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Will Gorsuch, MA

Assistant Training Coordinator

William Gorsuch, MA, is an Assistant Training Coordinator Specialist for the Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC) within Community Health Initiatives. He earned a Master of Arts: Journalism & Mass Communications – Advertising and a Bachelor of Arts: Communications - Public Relations. Will brings to PERU over a decade of marketing and advertising experience ranging from graphic design, copywriting, social media, and more. As a pop culture and video game enthusiast, Will's favorite topics of conversation include: music videos from the 1980s, the "Community" movie, Batman, and collecting all of the Infinity Stones. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Program Implementation: Community Health Initiatives

Charles Franklin, MS, NRP, CP-C

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Charles “Chip” Franklin, MS, NRP, CP-C is an Senior Program Implementation Specialist for the SCOPE Statewide project within Community Health Initiatives. Chip is a Paramedic with 30 years of experience providing prehospital care, administration and management. He is a graduate of Robert Morris University with a Masters in Health Administration and has a undergraduate degree in Emergency Health Services from the University of Maryland. Chip enjoys curling, travelling and cheering for the Orioles as he grew up in Baltimore. Pronouns: He/Him

Chris Chirdon, MEd

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Chris Chirdon, MEd, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for the Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC) within Community Health Initiatives (CHI). He earned his Master of Education in Science Education from University of Pittsburgh. In addition to working with local government, he heads a local nonprofit that works to improve mobility equity and access in Shaler Township. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Elizabeth Schrage, MA, MPP, LCSW

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Elizabeth Schrage, MA, MPP, LCSW, is a senior program implementation specialist for the Centers of Excellence project within CHI. She earned a Master of Arts in Social Work and Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Work from Miami University. Elizabeth has experience working for a variety of entities utilizing clinical, quality, and program monitoring skills. She loves to travel. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Erica Wasik, MA, NCC

Senior Implementation Specialist

Erica Wasik, MA, NCC, is a Senior Implementation Specialist for SCOPE projects within Community Health Initiatives (CHI). Erica earned a Master of Art in Clinical Mental Health from University of Waynesburg. Erica has 10 years of experience working with indidivuals with substance use disorders. She was a collegiate soccer player and her favorite food is Heinz ketchup. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Erin Seger, MPH, MCHES

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Erin has over 10 years of experience in health education and public health, including roles in clinical, corporate, and academic settings. Before joining PERU, she worked for the Network of the National Library of Medicine where she was responsible for health information outreach to clinical and public health organizations in four states. Erin has worked abroad in the United Kingdom, South Korea and South Africa and has visited over 20 countries. When not traveling, she enjoys running, hiking, biking, gardening and spending time with her husband and two cats. Pronouns: She/Her

Fran Baisden, MID

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Fran Baisden, MID is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for Criminal Justice projects within CHI. Fran earned a Bachelor of Art: Psychology from West Virginia University, and a Master of International Development: Human Security from University of Pittsburgh. They previously worked as a substance abuse disorder counselor and research assistant. Fran loves tending to their plants and going on hikes. Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs.

Jill Petanovich, BA

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Jill Petanovich, BA, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for the Centers of Excellence project in CHI. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University. Jill has over 12 years of experience working in mental health and substance use disorders as both a clinician and a regulatory program monitor. Jill loves spending time with her husband and daughter, as well as cooking, traveling, and taking pictures of her two cats for social media. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Julie Brewer, MSW, MPH

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Julie Brewer, MSW, MPH, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for the Pennsylvania Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Centers of Excellence (COE) within Community Health Initiativess (CHI). She has worked as a direct care provider for the past 8 years. Julie earned her Masters' of Social Work and Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh. She loves to watch bicycle racing, especially the Tour de France. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Katie Holler, MPH

Senior Project Implementation Specialist

Katie Holler, MPH, is a Senior Project Implementation Specialist for Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC). She earned a Master of Public Health: Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Arts: Human Ecology from College of the Atlantic. Katie is a dedicated public health professional working to eliminate health disparities, improve health outcomes, and increase assess to care. She has been working in non-profits since 2016. Katie has been riding her motorcycle since 2017. Pronouns: She/Her

Kayla McCormick, MA

Associate Implementation Specialist

Kayla McCormick, MA, is an Associate Implementation Specialist for the Opioid Overdose Prevention Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC). She earned a Master of Arts: Sociology from West Virginia University. Kayla's prior experience includes serving as Program Manager for a Interprofessional Teamwork and Collaboration HRSA grant in the School of Nursing at WVU, as well as assisting with the SAMHSA funded Suicide Prevention grant, and as an Office Administrator for the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources. Kayla grew up in an Army family and lived in multiple places such as Texas, Italy, North Carolina, Germany, and Alabama before finishing her studies and working in West Virginia. Pronouns: She/They

Mandy Kramer, BA

Executive Assistant to the CHI Deputy Director and CHI Program Managers

Mandy Kramer, BA, is the Executive Assistant to the CHI Deputy Director and CHI Program Managers. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Grand Canyon University and completed coursework towards an MFA from Point Park University. Mandy has 10 years of experience working in higher education, having first discovered her passion for in this field during her freshman year of college. Mandy loves spending time with her family, making fresh green juice, and hiking in North Park with her dogs.

Marla B. Johnson, EdD, MEd, CADC

Senior Implementation Program Specialist

Marla B. Johnson, EdD, MEd, CADC, is a Senior Implementation Program Specialist for Strategies for Coordinating Overdose Prevention Efforts (SCOPE). She earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Duquesne University, Master of Education in Psychology: Education and Bachelor of Science: Psychology from University of Pittsburgh. Marla has over 15 years of experience working with non-profits, community collaborations, HIV/AIDS, the arts, teaching in religious and secular settings, and in writing learning and development curricula; implementing programs in the community and organizations. Marla is an Educational Consultant and has worked with individuals in starting their 501c3 organizations, mentoring and working as a dissertation committee member to doctoral students. She is a member of the Pittsburgh HIV Commission. Marla is an artist in oil/ acrylics paintings. She is writing her first children’s book. Marla loves jazz and gospel music, spending time with family and friends, movies, and traveling . Marla is an ordained minister. She is also a Beauty Consultant. Pronouns: She/Her

Monique Davis, MS

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Monique Davis, BA, MS, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for Criminal Justice projects. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and History and Philosophy of Science from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Science in Applied Developmental Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh School of Education and will earn a PhD in Instructional Management and Leadership from Robert Morris University in June 2023. Monique has over 10 years of experience in the criminal justice and behavioral health fields. Her current dissertation research investigates clinical perspectives on treating offenders diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders. Monique moved to Pittsburgh in 2003. She enjoys hiking with her daughter, spending time with her cat and dog, and reading/writing poetry. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Rachel Carpenter, MS

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Rachel Carpenter, MS, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for the Opioid Use Disorder Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC). She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Health Services from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science in Global Health from Johns Hopkins University. Rachel has a passion for working with underserved communities and those struggling with substance use disorders. She has worked abroad in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Australia. Rachel loves spending time hiking and swimming with her husband, toddler, and their German Shepherd named Mouse. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Rachel Rock, MA

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Rachel Rock, MA, is an Senior Program Implementation Specialist for the Overdose Reduction Technical Assistance Center (ORTAC) and SCOPE First Responders within Community Health Initiatives (CHI). She earned her Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction for Adult Learning and Training and Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Point Park University. She has 12 years of experience working in allied healthcare as a medical assistant/biller/coder and over 14 years working in post-secondary education as faculty and a corporate registrar. Rachel loves spending time with her husband, two kids and two pomskies. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Shiryl Barto, MEd

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Shiryl Barto, MEd, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for Criminal Justice projects within Community Health Initiatives. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Frostburg State University and a Master of Education from Indiana Wesleyan University. Shiryl began her career in public education before turning her professional focus to evidence-based prevention and community-based public health. For over 15 years, she’s had the privilege to help create, manage, and evaluate small- and large-scale prevention and intervention efforts aimed at reducing the impacts of school and community violence. Shiryl has also co-authored several research articles and has contributed to advisory boards at the state and national levels. Shiryl loves golf, history, cooking, all things travel (especially Disney and the Outer Banks of North Carolina (OBX)), and Pitt football! She and her husband Stephen are the parents of four children. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers | shb210@pitt.edu

Toluwanimi Babarinde, MBBS, MPH

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Toluwanimi Babarinde, MBBS, MPH, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for SCOPE projects. He earned a Master of Public Health at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston alongside a graduate certificate in Maternal and Child Health. He is a Nigerian-trained physician and has a keen interest in health promotion and education, mental health, and human development. A graduate psychology scholar with a desire to continue into a doctoral program with a mental health/child development focus, Toluwanimi has been working with children and teenagers for over a decade. He is also a writer and publisher who loves to explore many creative tools to tell transformative stories. Toluwanimi loves bubble tea! Pronouns: He/Him | toluwanimi.babarinde@pitt.edu

Program Implementation: Innovative Health Systems

Caitlin Walsh, MS, CPhT

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Caitlin Walsh, M.S., CPhT is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for the Pharmacy Integration Program within Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She earned a Bachelor of Science Biology from Western New England University Master of Science: Healthcare Management and Administration from Point Park University. Caitlin is currently pursuing a PhD in Healthcare Ethics from Duquesne University focusing on patient care and patient safety in healthcare organizations. Caitlin's background is in pharmacy and is a certified pharmacy technician through PTCB. Caitlin is an active member of professional pharmacy organizations such as the Pennsylvania Society for Health System Pharmacists (PSHP) and sits on the board of WPSHP, the western chapter for PSHP. Caitlin has 3 years of inpatient hospital pharmacy experience working as a Pharmacy Operations Specialist at Allegheny General Hospital. Caitlin is originally from Staten Island, NY and moved to Pittsburgh in 2014. Caitlin loves hanging out with her two rescue dogs, Bucky and Captain, and visiting various museums and parks around Pittsburgh. Pronouns: She/Her

Georgie Scott, MPH

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Georgie Scott, MPH, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for PA Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) within the Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She has been using the skills she learned through her coursework and experiences to assist PERU in implementing programs that improve the health and wellbeing of the people they serve. Georgie earned her Master of Public Health in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. Georgie loves spending time outside doing everything from playing tabletop games to camping. Once it snows, she spends as much time as she can skiing. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Greg Griffith, BA

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Greg Griffith is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist who works on Innovative Health Systems Initiatives. In this role, Greg provides technical assistance, site consultation and mentorship to VA Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinators (CEPC), and prepares reports, presentations and training on behalf of the SPTAC and VA programming initiatives. Greg earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Kent State University and is a veteran of the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves. He has spent the past 15 years working on community development programming in healthcare, criminal justice reform, and voter enfranchisement. Prior to his current role at PERU, Greg served four years as a Program Manager, working on efforts to lobby at the state and federal level for changes to laws governing disparate criminal sentencing for people suffering from substance use disorder and over-incarceration. Greg was a founding member of a Federally Qualified Community Health Center in New Orleans LA. The clinic was created in the aftermath of the storm immediately after he moved to NOLA to assist with post-Katrina hurricane relief efforts. Privately, Greg is willing to admit that even though he may be a Jedi professionally, he’s really just a Padawan to his nine-year-old daughter Lali, who spends much of her time reminding him that his training is not yet complete. They love to watch Star Trek and Star Wars together, and go on long discovery bike rides where Lali is particularly fond of telling dad to “keep up”. Dad is always working on keeping up. Pronouns: He/Him/His

Jacqueline Cohen, MPH

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Jacqueline Cohen, MPH is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for Veterans Affairs Initiatives. She has a Master of Public Health: Human Genetics from the University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor of Science: Physiology and Neuroscience from the University of California, San Diego. In addition to a MPH, Jacqueline also earned a Certificate in Global Health. Jacqueline is originally from California and moved to Pittsburgh in 2017. She enjoys baking and hanging out with her dog. Pronouns: She/Her

Jessica Northcott, MSW, LCSW

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Jessica Northcott, LSW, is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist working on Project Lifeline and Project ARTEMIS. Jessica earned a Bachelor of Science: Psychology from Virginia Military Institute and a Master of Social Work: Veteran's Mental Health Specialty from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. Jessica's background includes working in large healthcare organizations with a focus on substance use, maternal health, and women-centered care. Jessica loves spending her free time with her two Dachshunds, Oscar and Fenway. Pronouns: She/Her

Katie Wooten, MPH, CHES

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Katie Wooten, MPH, CHES, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for Innovative Health Systems (IHSI). She earned a Master of Public Health: Community Health Sciences from University of California Los Angeles. Katie has more than 10 years of experience leading quality improvement programs for Medicaid populations. Katie's work has focused in areas such as clinical quality of care, access and utilization of preventative services, performance measurement, and community engagement. Katie enjoys partnering with community and delivery system stakeholders to plan and implement programs. Katie lived in Texas, Florida, Vietnam, and California before moving to Pittsburgh in 2013. Katie is an enthusiastic member of her local Toastmasters club and loves mindfulness meditation, the outdoors, and spending time with friends and family. Pronouns: She/Her

Lee Wagner, BS

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Lee Wagner, BS, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for the NW PA Veteran Suicide Prevention Program within IHSI. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Robert Morris University. Lee served in the US Marine Corps for eight years and has over seven years of experience working with veterans who have experienced trauma while serving. Lee is a certified yoga teacher and he enjoys leading other veterans in various yoga and meditation practices. Pronouns: He/Him

Lori Abbott, MS, LPC

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Lori Abbott, MS, LPC, is a Program Implementation Specialist for Allegheny Health Network Researching Treatment Effectiveness and Medical Integration through SBIRT (ARTEMIS) within the Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). She has over twenty years’ experience working with adults and adolescents experiencing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. Lori earned a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Certification in Marriage and Family Therapy from Edinboro University. Lori has eight grandchildren and one on the way. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Patti Tanner, MA

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Patti Tanner, MA, is a Senior Program Implementation Specialist for IHSI. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, a Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies, with concentrations in Intercultural Communication and Leadership Communication, and a master's certificate in Conflict Management, all from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Patti is a U.S. Navy Veteran and mom of two. She has over 10 years of experience in the non-profit sector, including roles in outreach, adult education, community organizing, advocacy and community development. She is a co-founder, and currently serves as the Executive Director for a veteran service organization - RISE; Rank & File, where she leads community organizing and advocacy efforts, with a focus on minority veteran populations. Patti also belongs to many veteran organizations, including: the Women’s Overseas Service League (WOSL), the VFW, and The Mission Continues. Patti was born and raised in Alaska. She loves biking, hiking, skiing, and staying active outdoors with her children. Pronouns: She/Her

Robert "Bobby" Ryan, MS, LPC, NCC

Senior Program Implementation Specialist

Bobby has 9 years of experience in behavioral health and counseling specifically working in trauma as a Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) clinician. Bobby continues private practice through the Associates in Behavioral Diagnostics and Treatment (AIBDT) and is trained in Psychological First-Aid. Bobby is a Pittsburgh native who loves spending time with his spouse, Kate, and two dogs, Luna and Milo. Bobby is also an Eagle Scout, volunteers his time with the Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute, and authored a treatment curriculum for young children called Penguins Patches. Pronouns: He/Him

Susan Price

Associate Program Implementation Specialist

Susan Price is an Associate Program Implementation Specialist for PA SBIRT; ARTEMIS within the Innovative Health System Initiatives (IHSI). Over the past 30+ years she has had the pleasure of holding several roles (I especially enjoy working with people). Susan started working at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy right out of high school being the youngest member of the staff. Now, she proud to say she went from being single, to married, to a proud mom of twin boys, and now proud "Grandma,” and I am still HERE but not the youngest member anymore. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Program Implementation: Veterans Affairs Initiatives

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To view and apply to open PERU positions, click here to view the University of Pittsburgh Talent Center page. Search for “PERU” or select “Pharm-Pharmacy and Therapeutics” under Department.