Sarah O’Hora Promoted to Commercial Loan Officer I at HNB David Raven, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Sarah O’Hora has been promoted to Commercial Loan Officer I. In making the statement, Raven noted, “Sarah is a long standing member of the HNB Family. Her local knowledge and sincere interest in her customers success have been consistent themes for her. He continued, “We are fortunate to have people like Sarah who are committed to making sure local businesses receive the value we have come to be known for in our community.” O’Hora is a graduate of Greencastle-Antrim High School and received a Bachelor of Science Degree (Cum Laude) from Millersville University in 2011. She also attended the PA Bankers School of Banking in 2015, and Leadership Northern Poconos Class of 2016. Currently residing in Lake Arial, PA, she started her ten year career in the financial industry with HNB. Previous positions included Teller, Customer Service Representative, Marketing Assistant, Marketing and Communications Specialist, and Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager. She will continue as Commercial Loan Officer I. In this role, she is responsible for developing and managing commercial loan relationships, collecting and analyzing financial information, and negotiating terms for small business and other commercial loan applicants. In mentioning her time with HNB, O’Hora said, “My work at HNB has always allowed me to support those in my local community. In this new position, I will be able to continue to support the financial needs of our local business people whom, I believe, are the foundation on which our communities are built.” In her spare time, she is a Worship Leader at Wallenpaupack Church and a Publicity Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of Wayne County, PA. She enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, pheasant hunting, clay bird shooting, and walks in the woods. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
Chamber Announces Promotion of Brianna Florovito The Chamber is proud to announce the promotion of Brianna Florovito to IGNITE Program manager. IGNITE is the entrepreneurship and business incubation program of the Chamber, which helps new businesses grow in Lackawanna County. In this role, Brianna will manage the IGNITE Program by fostering entrepreneurs and their companies through education, counseling, networking, and mentorship. Her responsibilities include overall program management, client development, funding, marketing, events, and more. Brianna started at the Chamber in 2019 as the workforce and entrepreneurial development specialist where she focused on economic and workforce strategies for the Chamber and its affiliates – SLIBCO, The Scranton Plan, and Skills in Scranton. Brianna is also an instructor at Lackawanna College teaching GED classes. She recently co-authored an article “Subject Position and Manifestations of Workplace Followership” that was published in the Journal of Organizational Psychology.
Chamber Announces Two Promotions Aaron Whitney Bruce Reddock The Chamber is proud to announce the promotion of two of its employees, Aaron Whitney and Bruce Reddock, who will both expand their roles with the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), the economic development affiliate of the Chamber. Aaron Whitney is now the director of facilities and asset management and is responsible for the administration of finances, design, and construction of SLIBCO real estate. Aaron will also manage all properties and utilities owned by SLIBCO, as well as manage the Chamber’s IGNITE entrepreneurship program. Bruce Reddock is now the director of economic development. In this role, Bruce will manage aspects of SLIBCO development activities, oversee relationships with private companies, real estate brokers and developers, local officials, economic development organizations and more, plus oversee all aspects of the site-selection process. Bruce also recently graduated as a fellow from the Industrial Asset Management Council’s Leadership Development Program.
Michelle Kowalewski Promoted to Commercial Loan Officer II at HNB David Raven, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Michelle Kowalewski has been promoted to Commercial Loan Officer II. In making the statement, Raven noted, “Michelle understands our values as a company and contributes to the support of our community day in and day out.” He said, “The Northern Susquehanna County market is a fresh focus of HNB and we have no doubt she will continue to provide strong service to our customers in her new role.” In her current role, Kowalewski is Mortgage Advisor at the Hallstead Office and assists customers and employees with daily functions as well as helping with mortgage recommendations. Originally from Montrose, Michelle received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Agricultural Business Management from Penn State University. She has been in the financial industry for 6 years. Previously, she worked as an Agricultural Loan Officer for AgChoice Farm Credit in Northeastern, PA. She will continue to provide her expertise as Commercial Loan Officer II at HNB. In mentioning her career with the bank, she said “I am excited to return back to commercial lending after working in residential mortgage lending for two years.” She mentioned, “I hope to continue HNB’s expansion in the Susquehanna County market area and strengthen existing relationships with our current customers.” Outside of the bank, Michelle is an active member of local clubs and organizations, serving as Organizational Club Leader of the Born to Show 4-H Club, President of the Susquehanna County 4-H Livestock Committee, member of the Susquehanna County Youth Program Advisory Committee. Member of the Harford Agricultural Society, Youth advisor for the Susquehanna County Jr. Holstein Club, and a member of St. Mary’s Church, in Kirkwood, NY. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys serving as a 4-H Club leader, attending her kids’ sports events and 4-H activities, camping, and is eager to attend Penn State football games again this fall. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
The Dime Bank Promotes James Gardas The Dime Bank Board of Directors along with President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich, are pleased to announce that James Gardas was appointed to the position of Senior Vice President of the Wealth Management Division. Gardas is an investment adviser representative for The Dime Wealth Management, a full-service brokerage operation located within The Dime Bank. Gardas has almost thirty years of experience in the customer service arena including twelve years of experience in the Wealth Management Division. Gardas graduated Summa Cum Laude from Charleston Southern University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a dual major in Business Administration and Mathematics. Gardas is a registered representative of Cetera Advisor Networks LLC and is life, accident and health insurance licensed and is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary. Gardas offers stocks, bonds, mutual funds, money management, annuities, insurance products, advisory services, retirement and educational savings plans, financial and estate planning services, and trusts to individuals and businesses through the Wealth Management Division. Peter Bochnovich stated, “Jim is an invaluable asset to The Dime Bank team. As the head of our Wealth Management division, Jim’s expertise has broadened the Wealth Management client base since taking the lead. His counsel and knowledge are a great fit for his customers, his team, and as a leader to The Dime Wealth Management division in pursuing our growth objectives.” He currently resides in Hawley, PA with his wife, Jade, and his two dogs, Moxie and Nugget.
Wayne Bank Promotes Vincent G. O’Bell Lewis J. Critelli, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Vincent G. O’Bell to Senior Vice President and Chief Lending Officer. “I am delighted to announce this promotion,” remarked Mr. Critelli. “Vinny’s strong leadership has contributed to the growth and profitability of the Bank’s commercial lending portfolio. His extensive experience and commitment to the communities we serve make him well-suited to this position, and firmly positions Wayne Bank for the continued expansion of our business lending efforts.” Mr. O’Bell joined the Bank in 2016 and has served as Senior Vice President and Commercial Lending Officer for the Lackawanna County market since that time, as well as a Team Leader within the Commercial Lending division. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Banking from Lackawanna Junior College and a Graduate Degree in Banking and Finance from the Stonier School of Banking. In 2019, Mr. O’Bell was recognized by the Pennsylvania Bankers Association for his 40 years of service, having held various senior roles in the banking industry for four decades. Mr. O’Bell is very involved with his community and serves as the Scranton Lackawanna Health and Welfare Board Chairman; a Rotary Club of Scranton Paul Harris Fellow, Board Member, and Treasurer; a Carbondale Chamber of Commerce Board Member and Treasurer; a NEPA Alliance Board Member; a Eucharistic minister and finance council for the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish; and a Finance and Investment Committee Member for the Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He resides in Jessup, with his wife, MaryLynn.
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Emily Barton David Raven, President and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Emily Barton, is now Deposit Operations Officer. In making the statement, Raven noted, “Emily is a key member to the success of HNB. She is known for her professionalism and ability to problem solve while working closely with customers and internal staff at our bank.” In her current role, Barton provides assistance with wire requests, new account information, organizing documentation, and many other processes in the Deposit Operations Department. Barton has a variety of experience at the bank working as a CSR/Teller, Loan Operations Representative, Loan Operations Team Leader, Deposit Operations Supervisor, and she will continue to provide her knowledge in the industry to HNB as Deposit Operations Officer. In mentioning her role at HNB, Barton noted, “I am grateful to be part of the HNB family. HNB has provided me many opportunities and I am very fortunate to be surrounded by people that support and encourage me to take on new challenges. My role as Deposit Operations Officer allows me to find new efficient ways to provide the service our customers expect.” Barton graduated from Honesdale High School in 2014 and began her career in the financial industry with HNB. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Keystone College in 2018 and obtained the ABA’s Principles of Banking Certificate. Outside of the bank, her spare time is occupied by skiing, hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family and dogs. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
NBT Announces Promotions NBT Bank announced the promotion of Regional Commercial Banking Manager Matt Colgan to Senior Vice President, and Retail Learning & Development Manager Erica Burger and Junior Credit Officer Gwen Grier to Assistant Vice President. All three employees are based at NBT’s Scranton Financial Center. Colgan joined NBT in 2008 as part of the Commercial Management Development Program, then advanced to Commercial Relationship Manager. In 2018, he was promoted to Regional Commercial Banking Manger where he is responsible for oversight of Commercial Banking services in Pennsylvania. Colgan earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance from King’s College in Wilkes Barre. He also participated in the American Bankers Association School of Commercial Lending. Colgan is active in his community, serving as a board member for Metro Action, and loan committee member for Pursuit (formerly NYBDC) and NEPA Alliance. Burger joined NBT in 2007 and works to create and implement content that elevates and enhances employee engagement through innovative training programs and resources. Burger earned a bachelor’s degree from Southern New Hampshire University and is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Bankers School of Banking. She is also active in the community, serving on the Board of Directors for Leadership Lackawanna and campaign co-chair for NBT’s United Way campaign. Grier joined NBT in 1998 and has advanced through several roles within the company, including Mortgage Underwriter, Senior Credit Analyst and Credit Support Team Leader. With nearly 30 years of financial industry experience, she now underwrites larger complex commercial loan requests and provides internal customers with guidance on loan structures in accordance with loan policy guidelines. Grier also is an active member of the community, serving in several roles for the Boy Scouts of America, including council program and training committee member, district committee member, venturing associate advisor and assistant scoutmaster. More information about NBT is available online at www.nbtbank.com.
Allied Services Integrated Health System People on the Move Jennifer Ambrosino, MS, OTR/L, was announced as Director of Rehabilitation at Allied Services Rehab Hospital in Scranton. Ambrosino joined the health system as an Occupational Therapist after graduating from Tufts University in 1997 and has served in a variety of positions at the inpatient facility including supervisor and assistant director. Along with helping patients regain their independence following an injury or illness, Ambrosino’s new role includes supervising and managing inpatient rehab services provided by Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy, along with the Counseling department. This includes monitoring productivity, developing standards of treatment, and maintaining performance improvement programs. Chris Fazzini, MHA, NHA: Allied Services Integrated Health System welcomed Chris Fazzini, MHA, NHA, as Administrator of the Transitional Care Unit in Scranton. Fazzini earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degrees in Management and Human Resources Management from Kings College in 2018, followed by his Master of Science in Healthcare Administration in 2019. Prior to joining Allied Services, Fazzini was the Administrator of a long-term care facility in the Lancaster area. Andrea Sokolowski, MS, CCC/SLP: Allied Services Integrated Health System welcomed Andrea Sokolowski, MS, CCC/SLP, as a new member of the therapy team at its Scranton-based outpatient rehab center. Sokolowski earned both her Bachelor and Master of Science Degrees in Speech-Language Pathology from East Stroudsburg University. Prior to joining Allied Services, Sokolowski was a school-based speech therapist in Bethlehem, PA working with students in a variety of classrooms, including autistic support, hearing support, life skills, emotional support, and partial hospitalization. Kimberly Yablonski, RN: Allied Services Integrated Health System announced Kimberly Yablonski, RN as the new Director of Nursing at the health systems Meade Street Skilled Nursing Center in Wilkes-Barre. Starting her nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse, Yablonski went on to become a Registered Nurse graduating from Luzerne County Community College with an Associate in Applied Science Degree, and brings more than 25 years of nursing experience to her new role. During her career, she has specialized in gerontology and dementia care. Prior to accepting the position in Wilkes-Barre, Yablonski served as the Assistant Director of Nursing, Unit Manager, and Alzheimer’s Specialist at Allied Services Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center in Scranton.
Mohegan Sun Pocono Promotes Michael Zullinger Mohegan Sun Pocono (MSP) is pleased to announce Michael Zullinger has been promoted to Director of Race and Sportsbook Operations. In this role, Michael will oversee racing operations, including live racing, at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, as well as onsite Sportsbook operations at both The Downs at MSP and MSP at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook, located in Allentown, PA. “We are thrilled to have Michael assume the role of Director of Race and Sportsbook Operations,” said Tony Carlucci, President & General Manager of Mohegan Sun Pocono. “His vast horse racing and off-track wagering experience certainly make him an asset to our team, and we’re really excited about the future of both The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono and Mohegan Sun Pocono at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook under his leadership.” Michael has 27 years of experience with off-track wagering, starting his career as a part-time Mutuel Teller in 1994. Michael became a Facility Manager in 1997, and used his expertise to facilitate operations at off-track wagering sites in Carbondale, Hazelton and East Stroudsburg over the course of 23 years. In July 2020, Michael joined the team at Mohegan Sun Pocono at Lehigh Valley Race and Sportsbook, where his guidance and dedicated work during the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact, resulting in his recent promotion.
