Alumna and Health Care Leader Returns to inspire Graduates at Commencement

Central Penn College will celebrate its 144th Commencement on Friday, May 1 at the Forum in Harrisburg, with Penn State Health’s Regional Director of Patient Experience and Volunteer Engagement Gretchen L. Ramsey, MPS ’15 taking the stage as the keynote speaker. Ramsey is also a member of the board of directors of Central Penn College and a popular instructor.

In her role for Penn State Health, she leads a team across Holy Spirit and Hampden Medical Centers dedicated to strengthening the patient and family experience and achieving higher levels of staff excellence through coaching, training, and resiliency-building practices.

As an adjunct faculty member at Central Penn College, Ramsey teaches courses in organizational structure, meaningful interpersonal engagement, and the importance of continuous professional development.

Prior to joining Penn State Health, Ramsey spent nearly 25 years working in legislative affairs, development, and fundraising throughout the Camp Hill and Harrisburg regions, for causes that included the PA Chamber of Business and Industry and Harrisburg Area Community College.

Following in the passions of her father, son and daughter, she is an active member of the Middle Susquehanna River Chapter of Delta Waterfowl, the Doc Fritchey Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and the Pennsylvania Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. Her past service includes board membership with the West Shore Chamber of Commerce and several seasons as an assistant coach for Girls on the Run.

A 2015 graduate of Central Penn College’s master’s program in Organizational Leadership, Ramsey credits her education—particularly its focus on change management—with helping her lead.

She and her husband Chris live in northern Dauphin County with their two children.

Other Awards to Be Presented on May 1

Student Awards

Valedictorian

Salutatorian

Leadership

Service

Athletics and Activities

Military Service

Legacy Award for Perseverance

Faculty Recognition

The Todd A. Milano Faculty Excellence Award

College President Linda Fedrizzi-Williams, Ed.D. will preside over the ceremonies, which will include several hundred students earning certificate, diploma, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as the Class of 2026.