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Staff & Board
The strength of Turning Point of Lehigh Valley has always been the commitment of its staff and volunteers. We nurture a culture of excellence that attracts the best and brightest people in our community. Our staff and Board members are passionate about our mission and deeply committed to making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of the people we support.
TPLV Staff
Lori Sywensky
Executive Director
loris@turningpointlv.org
Linda Thomas
Assistant Director
lindat@turningpointlv.org
Nina McCarthy
Director of Operations
ninam@turningpointlv.org
Andrea Search
Director of Advancement
andreas@turningpointlv.org
Daisy Rivera
Safe House Director
daisyr@turningpointlv.org
Miriam Rivera
Counseling Director
miriamr@turningpointlv.org
Marlena Flora
Legal Advocacy Director
marlenaf@turningpointlv.org
Mary McKenna
Children's Advocacy Director
marym@turningpointlv.org
TPLV Board of Directors
Lisa Pammer, President
Controller, Piramal Critical Care
"Domestic violence affects millions, both men and women of every race. After learning about the impact Turning Point has had on survivors’ lives I knew this was the right organization for me. No matter who we are or where we are we are capable of making change. The staff at Turning Point are committed to providing comprehensive services and support to assist those seeking that change. I wanted to be involved with such an important mission."
Sheila Ketterer, Vice President
Owner, Three Bees Quilting, LLC
"I have seen the impact of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse on close friends and loved ones who did not have somewhere to go for help. I want to be able to make a difference and help provide a solution for survivors."
Kim Laurito, Treasurer
American Bank, VP/Controller
"Turning Point’s mission is one that is near and dear to my heart. It’s great to know that an organization as wonderful as Turning Point is a part of our community, providing an incredible support system to those in need of their services."
Deb Cummins-Stellato, Secretary
Owner and President of The Think Good Company
"I have been a champion for intimate partner abuse for over 30 years. I worked on college campuses for many years and served as a victim advocate. I have personally been affected by this issue having experienced emotional abuse in a former relationship. I am proud to support this organization and its mission."
Danielle N. Adams
Owner, QueenSuite Coaching
"I am an advocate for human rights and civil liberties. I am passionate about Turning Point because of its leadership, its staff and the people we serve. Providing security and hope for a brighter tomorrow and abundant opportunities makes what we do an honor and a privilege. "
Cheryl Arndt, PhD
Muhlenberg College, Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness
"It is very satisfying to know that we are helping people who are trying very hard to help themselves and their families. I am proud of the way the staff and leadership of Turning Point work with survivors to address many complex needs, including overcoming stigma and trauma."
Juliana Bolivar
Small Business Consultant and Entrepreneur
"Domestic violence is a real issue in the world. One of three woman suffer abuse from their partner and I was of them. Knowing that I always had a strong support system and it still felt like my life was over, kept me thinking about how it feels for women who don’t. Being able to walk in the shoes of a survivor encouraged me to support Turning Point, as the staff was key to my own process. It is definitely an opportunity to give back to the people that truly care."
David Gilgoff
Retired
"I have two reasons why I wanted to be on the board of Turning Point. First, at the bottom of it, domestic abuse is horrible. Second, I have had a long term interest in being on the board of Turning Point since it's opening since the days when Bonnie McDonald got it up and running in 1978."
Robin M. Kulesa
Lehigh Valley Public Media, Director of Membership
"As a child, I was taught to help others who were unable to help themselves. As an adult, through personal experience, I became very much aware of what Turning Point stood for and the services they provide. Turning Point is one of those organizations who not only helps those who cannot help themselves, but empowers individuals by rebuilding mind, body, soul and providing the tools needed to make a lasting change for an “abuse free” life. They embrace each person as an individual regardless of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or otherwise, and are instrumental in rebuilding self-worth and self-confidence, something that is not easy to do. Each and every person who walks through their doors has a face and a name that is never forgotten, even long after they have left. Passion comes from doing something you believe in and love. Paying it forward, being able to help support someone in need or make a change in their life is big to me."
Paul Mazzucco
TierPoint, Chief Security Officer
"In my career, I’ve collaborated with law enforcement agencies worldwide, and developed a thorough, systematic understanding of the behavioral profiles of cyber criminals. That experience, in turn, has offered me a unique perspective on developing processes and programs that help protect my employer and clients. The opportunity to apply such skills to an organization like Turning Point, which works to improve the lives of victims of domestic abuse, is a challenge I welcome and for which I believe I’m well suited. The timing is right to use my experience with other for profit and non-profit boards to give back to my local community. Turning Point was my first choice for this journey and I'm humbled to be a part of such a great organization."
Jenn Moore
Guardian, Group Benefits
"During my career, I have had the opportunity to work in non-profit organizations with strong missions. I think most times the mission is key to engagement from staff and board members. I am very drawn to the mission of Turning Point. The loss of a dear friend, and colleague, to domestic homicide, was the unfortunate catalyst that inspired me to become more involved in the community and learn about domestic violence. Turning Point has been a great ally in my educational journey and my understanding about domestic violence. I'm passionate about the work Turning Point does across the Lehigh Valley, spreading awareness, and supporting survivors and their families. It's an honor to serve Turning Point and support their mission and those they serve in the community."
Peter V. Nickischer
Upper Macungie Township Police Department, Crime and Community Services Division Commander
"I think it is crucial to recognize just how devastating the effects of domestic and intimate partner abuse can be not only for the victim, but also those who depend on the victim as well (such as children, other family members, etc.). Sadly, I have seen this cycle of abuse first hand and the fallout that can be associated with it. Turning Point understands the importance of empowering victims and educating the general public, and the organization remains steadfast in accomplishing its mission. I am very honored to be part of this board and work hand-in-hand with others who are driven to stop domestic and intimate partner abuse."
Lauren Wieser
Concannon Miller & Co., Senior Staff Accountant
"I am passionate about Turning Point because they go above and beyond to help our community every day. Turning Point provides people with a safe and welcoming place to go, and that is something every person deserves to have. I am both proud and excited to be part of this amazing organization."
Thank you so much to our board of directors who made a video for our staff here at Turning Point in May 2019 early on in the pandemic. This video shows their continuous support to the lifesaving work that we do every day. We are so appreciative of the behind the scenes work that board does so we may continue the work that we do.
If you are interested in being considered for a seat on the Board of Directors,
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