Who We Are

Dr. Carl J. Sheperis serves as Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies at Kutztown University. With more than 25 years of experience in pediatric and family mental health, he has represented professional counseling before UNESCO, international organizations, and governments worldwide. A widely published textbook author and scholar, Dr. Sheperis has also contributed expertise to prominent media outlets. His honors include Outstanding Counselor Educator, the ACA Counselor Education Advocacy Award, David K. Brooks Jr. Distinguished Mentor Award, and Carl D. Perkins Government Relations Award. He was named a Fellow of the American Counseling Association in 2018.

Jim joined the Board in 2021 to help expand the organization’s reach and serve individuals with disabilities in more communities. He is Manager of Graduate Medical Education for the West Region at St. Luke’s University Health Network, where he leads business development, establishes operational goals, and has developed more than 15 residency and fellowship programs. Jim also serves on the boards of the American College of Healthcare Executives–Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter, Dale Realty LTD in Plains, and Red House Realty Inc. in Scranton. Outside of his professional and community involvement, he is an FAA-licensed pilot, ultramarathon runner, and active triathlete.

After losing his mother, with whom he shared a home, Jeffrey turned to PA Inclusive for In-Home Community Supports and Employment Support. Through determination and growing independence, he secured part-time employment, successfully maintained his own home, formed new friendships, and became Chair of the PA Inclusive Recreation Committee. In recognition of his dedication and community involvement, Jeffrey was named PA Inclusive’s Volunteer of the Year. He was also honored by Luzerne County Mental Health and Developmental Services during its Celebration of Abilities awareness event.

Jeff McLaughlin is a Solution Specialist with Golden Business Machines, where he helps regional businesses use technology to improve their operations. A resident of Forty Fort, Jeff has served two elected terms on the Borough Council and is a member of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority Board. He is also a lifetime volunteer firefighter with Swoyersville Hose Company No. 2, reflecting his longstanding commitment to public service and the local community.

Michelle Mikitish has served as President of the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce since 2016, advancing economic growth, workforce development, education, and small-business advocacy. A Penn State graduate with more than 30 years of B2B sales experience, she also completed Leadership Wilkes-Barre, Leadership Northeast’s Executive Leadership program, and Registered Apprenticeship Navigator certification. Michelle’s expertise includes strategic planning, program development, project management, sales, and relationship building. She serves on several regional economic, workforce, and community boards. A longtime Chamber board member and Women’s Network member, Michelle lives in Jenkins Township with her husband, Peter, and enjoys time with their children and granddaughter.

Sandy, originally from Erie, has called NEPA home for over 25 years. She holds a B.S. in Education from Lock Haven University, with certifications in Special and Early Childhood Education, pre-K–12. Her experience includes roles with Luzerne Intermediate Unit, Bear Creek Charter School, Wyoming Valley Montessori School, and the Salvation Army’s Philadelphia residential program for individuals with disabilities and dual mental health diagnoses. Sandy is committed to advocating for individuals with disabilities and animal welfare. She lives in Moosic with her husband, Jay, son Marco, and three dogs. Her daughters, Bella and Ayajan, attend the University of Pittsburgh and work for the U.S. Postal Service, respectively.

Joseph F. Saporito III is a third-generation Pittston attorney with Saporito, Falcone & Watt. His practice focuses on commercial, criminal defense, and civil litigation; commercial transactions; estate planning and probate; and guardianships. Active in his community and profession, Joseph serves on the boards of the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce and Pittston Civil Service Commission and as solicitor for the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Pittston. He is also a Pennsylvania Bar Association Zone 5 delegate, a Lackawanna Bar Association Young Lawyers’ Division board member, and a member of the Wilkes-Barre Law and Library Association.

Mark is a graduate of Bishop Hoban High School and King’s College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. He has worked at the Catholic Youth Center since 1985 and has served as its Executive Director since 2010. Mark is a board member and volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen and a board member and classroom volunteer with Junior Achievement of Pennsylvania. He is also co-owner of Studio Soprano, a letterpress printing company.

Shane Ely serves as Vice President and Branch and Community Development Manager at Community Financial System, Inc. In this role, he leads branch operations, builds community partnerships, and expands access to responsible financial services. Drawing on his experience in banking, financial services, and community development, Shane is committed to advancing inclusive economic growth and supporting individuals, families, and small businesses throughout the communities he serves.

Vanessa Vergnetti-Thomas is a certified K–12 special education teacher, personal trainer, and master colorist with extensive knowledge of IEPs and disability services. She is the mother of five children, including sons Benjamin and Tristan, who have autism. Through PA Inclusive, Benjamin gained meaningful employment experience at a local pizza restaurant, providing him with purpose and personal pride. Inspired by his experience, Vanessa is committed to raising awareness of PA Inclusive’s impact and the importance of community inclusion for students and adults with disabilities. She lives in Old Forge with her husband and children.

James, a Wilkes-Barre native and West Pittston resident, holds degrees in Art and Art Education from Misericordia University. His career includes 12 years as a photographer and videographer with WBRE-TV, followed by 25 years in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s broadcast division for the Pennsylvania State Senate. James is the father of two children and grandfather of three. He enjoys staying active in the community and participating in the many activities and events held throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Marc Dixon is a global C-suite executive with more than 30 years of experience in technology, education, and workforce development. He is Founder and CEO of Eyecon Imaging and Raizor, serving the global attractions industry, and co-founder of Study Academy USA and WELL Training US. Marc has partnered with organizations ranging from grassroots nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies, combining strategic vision and operational expertise to expand access to education and employment. Guided by his commitment to equity and empowerment, Marc supports PA Inclusive’s mission to create meaningful opportunities and build a more inclusive, accessible future for all.