The New Faces Leading YoCo | Spring 2024

Lissuannette Rivera

Dr.

ABOVE:

CREDITS

View the digital version of YoCo Connect online at Issuu.com/YoCoConnect

The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced electronically or in print without the express written permission of the publisher. Copyright © 2024 York County Economic Alliance. All

WANT TO DISCOVER WHAT DOWNTOWN YORK HAS TO OFFER?

View the digital version of Downtown York magazine at Issuu.com/DowntownYorkPA.

with Lissuannette Rivera Mercado, BLOOM Opportunity Specialist Q A

What is your role with the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center?

As a BLOOM Opportunity Specialist, my role includes promoting programming and resources from the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center to small businesses, entrepreneurs, job seekers, and the community at large. I also assist with the collection and interpretation of data related to Pathways to Prosperity and various workforce development initiatives, among other things like attending events, representing the organization on committees, and much more.

What do you love best about the work you do?

After completing a project or initiative, I enjoy being the bearer of good news and sharing new opportunities that could make a positive difference in someone's life, business, agency, etc. The most rewarding aspect is seeing how others can benefit from all the resources we have to offer.

What motivates you to do the work you do?

I am motivated by the belief that I am doing the right thing by sharing my talents and fulfilling my purpose. I do it because, while contributing my skills and talents, I am also growing and adding value to my life.

Q: Q: Q: Q:

Q: Q: Q:

What brought you to York County?

Love brought me to York! I met my current husband, the father of my children, here. Seeing the job opportunities and resources available for those with basic or intermediate English skills like mine at the time, I decided to stay and start my family.

What do you enjoy most about what York County has to offer?

I enjoy the diversity of food, as well as the employment opportunities. I also appreciate the increasing resources for the Hispanic community. A favorite go-to lunch or dinner spot?

For lunch, Mofonguito’s House, El Sol Restaurant, or Picalonga; for dinner, Cheddar's, Mesa Moreira, or Eagles Nest Restaurant

What is a hidden gem you enjoy that you think most people might not know about?

Paleteria Tucombo Ice Cream Shop in Hanover. It offers the best water-based Mexican ice cream I've ever tasted. My favorite flavor is Tamarindo

COLLEGE & Community:

Dr. Thomas Burns Begins Tenure as President of York College of Pennsylvania

BY KATIE MAHONEY | CHIEF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

When Dr. Thomas Burns was considering a relocation from Tennessee back to Pennsylvania, he looked to his own family for the impact of this decision. “My nephew is a York College student. My niece is a graduate. From what I saw from the outside, they are well-connected to the community. Students at York College have practical experience, the college is getting them ready for the world.”

With that, he made the decision to become the fifth president of York College of Pennsylvania in June of 2023. His vision for the college is clear, yet impactful, “We’re about helping students find their place in the community,” shares Dr. Burns. “We focus on developing students so they can be good representatives wherever they live. The College motto is "To serve is to live" so we want our students to recognize that service is part of what makes a community thrive. Getting a job is one thing, being part of the community is another.”

On that commitment to community, Dr. Burns plans to continue enriching the college’s relationship with the City of York, and the full County, and solidifying the college’s commitment to workforce development by bringing to life the Knowledge Park. This project, housed on the east bank of the Codorus Greenway in the former Schmidt & Ault Paper Company facility, will bring together industry partners, faculty experts, and York College students for innovative projects in the York community while offering an estimated $64 million in economic value to the York area and projecting to generate over $27 million of income for the local economy.

“We focus on developing students so they can be good representatives wherever they live. The College motto is "To serve is to live" so we want our students to recognize that service is part of what makes a community thrive. Getting a job is one thing, being part of the community is another.”

~Dr. Thomas Burns, President, York College of Pennsylvania

“We are the institution for whatever the workforce needs. We need to be that partner in businesses, and with individuals. Things are happening in York County that aren’t happening in other places, and that stimulates excitement.”

~Dr. Thomas Burns, President, York College of Pennsylvania

“We are the institution for whatever the workforce needs,” he adds. “We need to be that partner in businesses, and with individuals. Things are happening in York County that aren’t happening in other places, and that stimulates excitement.”

When asked about his advice on leadership, he chuckles. “I’m not a student of leadership books or training,” he says. Instead, he leads by these fundamental principles:

• BE THOUGHTFUL AND PATIENT.

• BE WILLING TO DO WHAT YOU ASK OTHERS TO DO. “It’s not about telling, it’s about bringing people along with you,” he explains.

• TELL PEOPLE BAD NEWS WITH A SMILE.

• BE HUMAN.

When not “on the clock,” Dr. Burns still finds himself spending off-time centered around the campus by walking his dog and engaging with students and visitors. “The campus is like a park, where everywhere feels welcoming,” he shares. “And Colonial Diner – you always see someone you know.”

“York is a place where you can have a life, and it’s full of kind, genuine people,” he adds.

441 Country Club Rd York, PA 17403

ycp.edu  |

FROM IGNITE YOUNG PROFESSIONAL TO President & CEO of York County Community Foundation

How Natalee Colón Gunderson

grew to a role that is giving voice and opportunity to others

BY CASEY NIXON I DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Starting her career in retail management and making her way into the human resources field after college, Natalee Colón Gunderson found herself at The York Water Company in 2011. As she worked her way up, Natalee landed a role as Vice President of Human Resources in 2019 where she worked for five years successfully navigating through a pandemic, workforce shortages, a drought, and much more.

In March of this year, Natalee began facing a new adventure as she leads the team at York County Community Foundation (YCCF) as the new President and CEO following Jane Conover’s retirement in December of 2023.

“This is the community that I choose to live in and am raising my family and therefore, I put my hand and heart up to do good work to ensure we all thrive. This is now my home and I want to invest in it. I want to share why people should live, work, and play in this county, and what we do to make sure we all thrive.”

~Natalee Colón Gunderson President & CEO of York County Community Foundation

As Natalee transitions to YCCF, she’s most excited about understanding and enhancing partnerships in the community that are making an impact on economic development and community change. “My vision is to ensure that more of our community members understand the value of the Community Foundation, what it does, and what it means for today, and our future as a County,” Natalee says.

Natalee credits her many mentors over the years who have helped her get to where she is today. From her parents, Natalee attributes learning honesty, kindness, and perseverance. Through working with and knowing Jeff Hines and Patti Stirk, she understands values such as grace, humanity, humility, and some spunk. She’s grateful to leaders she has encountered in the York community who have allowed her to observe and learn from them while helping her make connections that have allowed her to help others.

In addition to working full-time, Natalee volunteers for various nonprofits in our community. Recognizing her work and dedication to York County, Natalee was named the YCEA’s Ignite Young Professional of the Year in 2021 which spotlights a young professional igniting change here in YoCo, foreshadowing a natural fit for the future leader of YCCF.

ABOVE: Natalee accepting the 2021 Ignite Young Professional of the Year Award at the YCEA’s Keynote Event, Showcasing YoCo.

“I have always been interested and passionate about seeing more of our community members thrive in daily life and I am excited to be a part of ensuring our community facilitates more of that through philanthropy,” Natalee said.

For Natalee, being a leader means, “using her platform to give voice and opportunity to others in an authentic, respectful, and strategic way that not only benefits today but the future.” In her new role, Natalee asks the York community to allow her to listen and learn so she can facilitate collaboration and progress that our entire community is connected to, not just a select few.

When she’s not at the YCCF office, Natalee can be found spending time with her husband Reed and daughter Viveeana, caffeinating at The Green Bean Roasting Co., and enjoying YoCo’s outdoor assets!

14 W Market St York, PA 17401 yccf.org I

LEADING IN SERVICE to Others

BY MEGAN KREISER | ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT,

Q: What has your career journey been with Barley Snyder?

I’ve been with Barley Snyder for more than 30 years. I am a proud Millersville University and Dickinson School of Law alum. After law school, I joined Barley Snyder as an associate in the firm’s Employment Practice Group. I represent clients on the management side, counseling businesses on employment matters and defending them in employment related lawsuits. I became a partner at the firm in 2001. I previously served as chair of the Employment Practice Group for 14 years in addition to other leadership roles.

Q: What is your vision as you step into this leadership role?

On the growth side, I do not want head count for the sake of head count – our goal is to continue to grow strategically. The chief strategy officer position we created works with the management committee to help identify lateral hires and bring in specialized expertise to the firm. For example, within trusts and estates, we acquired an attorney in Reading certified in elder law. He is really valuable with helping clients navigate Medicare Medicaid and Social Security. In our York office, we have an attorney who is an expert in liquor license law and he has built a team to serve clients in this area.

Q: What are you most excited to do and address in this role?

Like our former managing partner, Jeff Lobach, I am focused on improving firm culture for employees at all levels. I also want to enhance the opportunities to continue our Practice Excellence® initiative. We continue to develop techniques and processes for delivering work in the most efficient way possible in accordance with each practice. Our Practice Excellence® committee maps our processes, eliminates waste and improves responses.

Q: Why did you decide to be a leader in York County?

I grew up in Central Pennsylvania and I am connected to the community. I also love my clients and the firm’s commitment to community service.

Q: What does being a leader mean to you?

I believe the term “servant leader” gets overused a lot. However, I do believe that leadership is in service to others and when people feel engaged and heard, they are more satisfied and productive. I am committed to leadership that is focused on culture and empowering others while delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Q: What are your three favorite things about York County?

Firstly, the strength of leadership within the business community and their commitment to community service. York County has exceptional institutions in WellSpan Health and York College of Pennsylvania, to name a few, and their boards benefit from leaders who care about and are invested in the community.

Secondly, the remodeled Yorktowne Hotel which is adjacent to our York office. And lastly, the great state parks and hiking and biking trails.

100 E Market St, York, PA 17401 barley.com

MORE NEW FACES Leading in YoCo

Across various industries in the county, many individuals are assuming leadership positions that will not only continue their organization's legacy but also help it adapt to a new generation. These leaders possess extensive experience and knowledge, as well as a strong passion and determination to ensure their organization thrives and makes a positive impact in our community.

From manufacturing and non-profits to a symphony orchestra, the following is a list of new leaders who are taking on important roles in businesses and organizations that are shaping the future of YoCo.

BRIAN GRIMM I President United Way of York County

Brian assumed the role of President at the United Way of York County in July 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience garnered over two decades in the non-profit sector. Brian's academic credentials include a Bachelor’s Degree from Kutztown University and a Master's Degree from Clarion University, establishing a strong foundation for his leadership responsibilities. Before his current position, Brian served as the CEO of York Day Early Learning for six years.

“Being entrusted with a leadership role is a privilege that I deeply value, and guiding our United Way of York County is an absolute honor.”

unitedway-york.org I

STACEY L. CAMPBELL

VP/GM Spring Grove Operations

Pixelle Specialty Solutions

Stacey brings over 35 years of in the manufacturing industry to his role as Vice President and General Manager of Operations at the Spring Grove location of Pixelle Specialty Solutions, one of the largest and fastest-growing manufacturers of specialty papers in North America, with one of the most comprehensive portfolios in the industry.

"I think there is a lot of opportunity in the mill, it is a great business and a great group of people who have a lot to be proud of with four generations of workers. There is a lot of promise with the business and I am excited to work with the people who keep the mill successful."

pixelle.com

JASON MCSHERRY

President and CEO York Literacy Institute (YLI)

Jason joins the York Literacy Institute (YLI), formerly the York County Literacy Council, after most recently serving as Director of Clinical and Operations Communications at WellSpan Health. He has extensive experience in non-profit organizations having also held roles at UPMC Memorial, York County Economic Alliance, York Habitat for Humanity, and the March of Dimes.

“I am grateful for this tremendous opportunity to lead the York Literacy Institute into the future. We have been growing rapidly and helping more York residents achieve their goals thanks to an amazing staff, board of directors, and executive director, Bobbi Anne DeLeo. I am excited to help even more students and individuals gain the literacy skills for a successful tomorrow.”

yorkliteracyinstitute.org I

TERRI TRAVERS I CEO

York JCC

Terri, a graduate of Juniata College, worked for the Harrisburg JCC for over 20 years, starting as the Sports and Fitness Director and eventually becoming the Director of Programs and Operations. Travers was part of cohort 7 of the Merrin Teen Fellowship Program and is a JCC Association Professional Fellowship Scholarship and Jewish Mid-Career Fellowship recipient. She is currently working towards her Master’s in Nonprofit Management at Gratz College

ANTHONY WISE Executive Director York Symphony Orchestra

Anthony was named the Executive Director of the York Symphony Orchestra in 2023, after serving as Concert Operations Manager. After attending the Curtis Institute of Music, he performed in symphony orchestras all over the world. Following his performing career, Anthony shifted to orchestral management with a focus on leadership and education which led to the birth of the Brass Academy in Austin, Texas.

“I am thrilled about guiding the York JCC toward continued success within the vibrant York community. With our incredible members and dedicated staff, we offer enriching programs for individuals of all ages. Not only does the JCC provide top-notch Jewish programs, but it also serves as a cherished destination for fitness, recreation, and education.”

yorkjcc.org I

“I am most excited about leading the  orchestra to their 100th Year Celebration in 2032.  We are collaborating with our Music Director,  Lawrence Golan, as well as our 75 core musicians to deliver orchestral music to the community through diverse programming, including classical staples to cinematic film favorites with a LIVE orchestra. Our city has the best people, and they deserve the best music to parallel!”

yorksymphony.org I

Tips from the Pros

Thinking About a New Career Pathway?

BY MARLENA SCHUGT | BLOOM PROGRAM MANAGER & LISSUANNETTE MERCADO RIVERA | BLOOM OPPORTUNITY SPECIALIST

Are you struggling to be happy and confident in your workplace? Do you want to make a career change but don't know where to start? Experts Kashonna Marrow, President & CEO of Simply Kashonna LLC, and Julia Groft, Market Principal at Manpower share their advice on how you can put your career on a pathway you’ll bloom in.

WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT MAKING A CHANGE

1 Don’t make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion. Take your time, breathe, and respect the pause…Respecting the pause helps you think about things clearly and strategize.

2 Be creative and open yourself up to new opportunities. Sometimes a company doesn’t even know they need a position until they meet you.

3 Do your research on the company you’re applying for and do your research on yourself. Understand who you are and what your morals are. Try to identify the common denominator that tied all your previous roles together. Why did you accept those previous roles and what did you like about them?

WHERE TO LOOK FOR YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY

1 Reach out to your local workforce development organizations. For example, the YCEA hosts York Hiring Fairs at WellSpan Park throughout the year where you can meet with employers face-to-face. The YCEA also maintains the Pathways Portal website which has a Connection Center where employers can post their available jobs, training programs, internships, and much more.

2 Connect with staffing agencies. Staffing agencies, like Manpower, constantly work with companies to attract qualified talent for a variety of roles, fields, and industries. They can put your resume in a great position to be reviewed by a company’s human resources team.

3 Take your next steps intentionally. Your ideal role may require that you gain new skills in a different position, but every experience is valuable and can add to your resume.

place space to think, connect, and create. simplykashonna.com | leadersmoveforward.com |

HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR NEXT PATHWAY IS A GOOD FIT

1 Understand your core values. What are your non-negotiables? Do your values align with the organization you’re seeking out? Ask questions about the things that mean a lot to you while in your interview. For example, what are the expectations related to the work-life balance at this company? Or, does this company prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion and what does that actually look like for them?

2 Find a mentor at your new employer. Either identify someone you look up to at your new company or ask your company’s leadership to pair you up with someone really good at the job.

3 Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. new person at a company is uncomfortable, even if it is a positive experience, but think back to a time when you were uncomfortable at first but you got through it and things worked out. Put in the work before you give up on an opportunity, but if it’s not a good fit that’s okay and something else will be out there.

To learn more about how the BLOOM Business Empowerment Center can help you, visit BLOOMyork.org.

Introducing YoCo’s New County Commissioner, Scott Burford

BY DAVID GON Z ALEZ I DI R E C TO R, E CONOMI C INITI AT IVE S

Elected in November 2023 to the York County Board of Commissioners, Scott Burford is the newest face on the board. Commissioner Burford brings with him over 20 years in public service and in that same time, he has called York County home. Before being elected in York County, he worked for the Dauphin County Board of Commissioners where he most recently held the role of Chief Clerk/Chief of Staff.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON?

Fall and Winter. I love to ski in the winter and cycle in the fall.

FAVORITE PLACE TO CYCLE IN YORK COUNTY?

Lakes Redman and Williams are my favorites.

RUNNING FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER

When asked what led him to run for Commissioner, Burford said “I’m very goal-oriented and have picked up life experiences in my previous role and found that I hit my professional goals in Dauphin County. I found myself coming back home after the workday not as engaged locally and wanted to embark on a new challenge and use my experiences to benefit my home county.”

WHAT SHOULD THE PUBLIC KNOW ABOUT COUNTY

WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU BOAST ABOUT WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT YORK COUNTY WITH PEOPLE FROM OUTSIDE THE AREA?

How we have a rich amount of outdoor recreational amenities,

7Newest Trail Towns Destinations to Visit

BY BRENDAN SALYARDS MANAGER, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

HANOVER

Britton Coffee Co.

11 York St | @Britton Coffee Co

Located just a few short steps below the surface of York Street, Britton Coffee Co.’s Downtown Location is one of the newest additions to Downtown Hanover. The coffee shop is also accessible via an elevator, inside the building. Britton Coffee Co. opened this third location in late December 2023 in the space at the McCallister Apartments just off Hanover’s Center Square. They have a great selection of drinks, in-house baked goods, and breakfast sandwiches. This location also offers mobile ordering, as well as serves boba tea.

Owner Jordan Britton: “Like main street businesses from the past our name is proudly displayed on our business. We want people to know what we’re about. We feel like it’s our obligation to keep our costs low for our customers. That feels like community to me.”

WRIGHTSVILLE

River Rock Provisions: Home of Half Nuts Popcorn

498 S Front St | halfnutspopcorn.com

In late 2023, Gina Frey-Jones, the founder of Half Nuts Popcorn, sold the businesses to Lori Capello. Since the start of the year, Lori has been hard at work converting the property just a few feet down the street into an expanded operation. With a target opening date in March of 2024, River Rock Provisions: Home of Half Nuts Popcorn will continue making the popcorn that locals and visitors love and will expand the offerings to include some additional items for folks enjoying Wrightsville’s outdoor amenities.

SEVEN VALLEYS

American Rail Bike Adventures

101 Church St | americanrailbike.com

Although they have been in operation for a few years now, American Rail Bike Adventures remains one of Southern York County’s best new attractions. Launching their excursions from the Trailhead in Seven Valleys, patrons can take a roughly seven-mile round trip to Howard Tunnel. This low-intensity workout is fun for the whole family. Their 2024 season kicks off in May.

GLEN ROCK

Main Street Market

17 Main St | mainstmarketglenrock.com

Opened last year, Main Street Market has quickly become a staple in the Glen Rock Community. Providing access to local fresh produce, meats, and grocery items, Main Street Market serves as a community gathering space. Sunday farmers markets held from Memorial Day through Halloween provide an opportunity for local makers and growers to sell their wares.

RAILROAD

Stream Liner Gastropub at AleCraft Brewery 15 S Main St | alecraft.beer

DOWNTOWN YORK

The Breakfast Store

Penn Market, 308 W Market St

pennmarket.com

At the start of the year, AleCraft Brewery announced a new venture with Stream Liner Gastropub providing a new menu for 2024. David Fitzgerald, the new Head Chef, has expanded their menu, adding some new soon-to-be favorites to the menu. The new year also brings an expanded partnership with New Freedom Roasting Company and Deli to provide an AleCraft house blend coffee, an ingredient in their Royal Roast Coffee Stoudt and now for sale by the pound, and a new brew: Crucible Belgian Tripel.

NEW FREEDOM

Summit Grove Camp & Conference Center: RV Sites 140 S Front St | summitgrovecamp.org

Officially opened in 2023, Summit Grove Camp and Conference Center’s new RV parking spaces offer a perfect spot for folks to camp for a night, a weekend, or an extended stay. Located just feet away from the York County Heritage Rail Trail and only a five-minute walk away from New Freedom’s Downtown, Summit Grove Camp and Conference Center’s RV sites are ready and waiting for your stay.

@The Breakfast Store

This new vendor at Penn Market is serving up some great breakfast items at prices that won’t break the bank. Their $5 breakfast sandwiches are a great way to fuel up before a trip on their York County Heritage Rail Trail just two blocks over from Penn Market. However, be sure to check out the rest of their menu, too!

Owner Nathaniel Jamison: “Working for yourself and getting to that point is always the dream. It feels great to be an inspiration to other young people in the city. There’s so much more to York, and people just have to go and look for it.”

EVENTS

For details, visit YCEAPA.org

APRIL

Wednesday, April 24, 7:30-8:30 am

Economics Club Event: Childcare & the Workforce presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group

Keystone Kidspace, 10 Hamilton Ave

MAY

Thursday, May 2, 11:30 am-1:30 pm

Legislative Luncheon presented by Buchart Horn Outdoor Country Club, 1157 Detwiler Dr

Tuesday, May 7, 5-7 pm

Regional Women’s Business Mixer John Wright Restaurant, 234 N Front St, Wrightsville

Tuesday, May 14, 11:30 am-1 pm

WBCO Luncheon: ATHENA Panel presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave.

Tuesday, May 21, 5-7 pm

YoCo Connect Live: Make Your Mark at Ruins Hall, presented by Murray 30 Enterprise St, Glen Rock

Wednesday, May 29, 7:30-8:30 am

Economics Club Event: BLOOM Programming presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd

JUNE

Friday, June 7, 11:30 am

36th Annual Golf Outing presented by UPMC Royal Manchester Golf Links, 5700 Board Rd, Mount Wolf

Tuesday, June 11, 11:30 am-1 pm

WBCO Luncheon: Mental Health & Awareness presented by UPMC Heritage Hills Resort, 2700 Mt Rose Ave.

For details, visit DowntownYorkPA.com

May 3: Give Local York & First Friday presented by WellSpan Health, Downtown York, 5-9 pm

May 15: Downtown Update, Appell Center for the Performing Arts, 8-9 am

June 7: First Friday presented by WellSpan Health, Downtown York, 5-9 pm

04.27

GO GREEN IN THE CITY presented by UPMC is happening in Downtown York on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10 am-3 pm. This fun, family-friendly festival celebrates green, healthy, and local living, and features more than 50 vendors, live music, food, children's activities, and much more! For more information, visit downtownyorkpa.com/go-green-in-the-city

144 Roosevelt

York, PA 17401