Maternal and Family Health Services Announces New Board Officers and Welcomes New Board Members
MFHS is proud to announce its newly elected Board Officers and welcome new members to its Board of Directors. These dedicated leaders bring diverse professional expertise and a shared commitment to strengthening families, advancing health equity, and improving outcomes across the region.
Board Officers
Chair: Lake Ryan Gemzik
Lake Ryan Gemzik serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Building Blocks Learning Center. With more than 18 years of experience in early childhood education, Lake is deeply committed to making quality childcare accessible to all families. He brings extensive expertise in nonprofit leadership, financial oversight, and systems-building, with a career dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
Vice Chair: Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez
Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez is a published author and nationally recognized leader in diversity-focused leadership development. With experience spanning the nonprofit, private, and government sectors, she brings a strong background in Spanish, social work, organizational communications, and executive leadership. She is an active board member and advocate for social justice initiatives, is a commissioner for the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs. and resides in Pennsylvania with her husband and their twin sons.
Secretary: Erica Acosta
Erica Acosta is the Director for Diversity Initiatives at Wilkes University, where she supports undergraduate students and leads campus-wide efforts focused on belonging and engagement. Erica is an engaged community leader in Wilkes-Barre and serves on several boards.
Treasurer: Rebecca Prociak, CPA
Rebecca Prociak is a Senior Audit Associate at Baker Tilly where she specializes in not-for-profit and local higher education audits. She brings strong financial expertise and a passion for supporting organizations that make a meaningful impact throughout the region.
New Board Members
MFHS also welcomes the following new members to its Board of Directors:
- Heather Buck, Director of Human Resources, Johnson College
- Dr. Jamian Ryan, DO, FAAP, Physician, Geisinger Pediatrics
- Patrick McDonough, LCSW, Owner, McDonough Counseling & Coaching
- Katherine Silfa, MSW, EFI Program Manager
- Wendi Holena, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer, NEPA Alliance
- Dara Soljaga, Ph.D. – Associate Dean of Education, King’s College
“These individuals exemplify leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to service,” said Maria Montoro Edwards, PhD, President and CEO of Maternal and Family Health Services. “We are incredibly grateful for their willingness to serve and for the expertise they bring to our Board. Their dedication to improving the health and well-being of families will help MFHS continue to strengthen our communities and advance our mission throughout the region.”
