Women of P.I.T. 2025

Kamira Evans is the Vice President of Student Engagement, Chief of Staff, and theTitle IX Coordinator at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology. Kamira works tirelessly to advocate for all members of the P.I.T. community — students, faculty and staff. Her commitment to her work at P.I.T. for more than 15 years has exceptionally impacted and transformed the lives of many people here. She consistently finds strategic ways to enhance the educational experience for students from historically marginalized backgrounds, first-generation students and those facing personal challenges. Additionally, Kamira has made significant contributions outside of P.I.T. through her participation in the Delaware County Women’s Commission and her recent presentation at the Middle States Commission on Higher Education conference. Kamira  plays a crucial role in the ongoing success of our community.

Joanne Butts assists with P.I.T. students in each and every way. Anytime her help is needed, she is always there to make a difference in someone’s life. Joanne began her career at P.I.T. in 1982. When the college relocated to the Media campus in Upper Providence, she became the Administrative Assistant to the President and stayed in that capacity until 1997. Following a five-year retirement, she was persuaded to return to P.I.T. as the college’s part-time Assistant Registrar. In this role, she enjoys interacting with the students and staff.  “I am inspired by the students who put so much effort into getting an education and bettering their lives,” Joanne reflected. “I am fortunate that P.IT. has provided me with not only an occupation, but many lifelong friends.”

She is a resident of Ridley Park, where she enjoys local neighborhood and community activities.  Joanne enjoys living in proximity to Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore. Known for always having a book on hand, she enjoys watching movies and the Phillies, and getting outside for a mile-long walk a few times a week. Family is very important to Joanne. 

Marcia Garbutt is a woman who is dedicated to making a difference. She empowers the lives of student parents.

When a door is closed, Marcia finds a solution — and if there isn’t one, she charts a new course that is destined to triumph. In her role as the parenting student success coach at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology, Marcia secures essential resources, from funding to emergency expenses for student parents. This year, she’s ensuring the endowment of $70,000 in scholarships for P.I.T. students who are parents.

Marcia’s wisdom and joyous ethos is evident to all who meet her. She’s truly a game changer for P.I.T. student parents working to transform their lives by advancing their education.

Jess Dixon is a dedicated content creator and design specialist. Her creativity takes an idea and transforms the notion into visual graphic artwork and video storytelling that sparks engagement. She’s detail-oriented, always focused and excels at planning management while juggling many projects all at once. If you have an idea, Jess can transform your vision into content that inspires. A resident of Philadelphia, Jess grew up in Delaware County. She’s an avid Eagles fan who never says no to a challenge. With Jess at the helm of P.I.T.’s content and design work, the future is very bright! 

Annamarie Cassidy is very understanding with all of the students at P.I.T.. In her role as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, she goes above and beyond to assist students each and every day. She answers questions about their payment plans and helps them find paths forward despite any challenge. Annamarie diligently works with P.I.T. students if they have concerns and she always finds ways to assist them. Annamarie is a truly wonderful staff member who always brightens someone’s day.

Dr. Shelly Buck is the President of Main Line Health’s Riddle Hospital, and the recipient of P.I.T’s 2025 Jayne B. Garrison Community Service Award. Shelly received a Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership doctorate degree from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University. 

Geralyn Swindell, RN, BSN is a member of the Practical Nursing Program at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology where she serves as the Faculty Representative to the Board of Trustees. Geralyn has dedicated more than 15 years of service educating future nurses and supporting students through tutoring and teaching. In 2023, the Pennsylvania Association of Practical Nursing Administrators named her Educator of the Year.

Laura Blomgren is a woman of dedication and perseverance whose leadership has paved the way for the good work of P.I.T. to drive up admissions enrollment by more than 55% since 2020. In her role as Vice President of Enrollment Management, she’s assembled a great team in support of these groundbreaking efforts. Laura earned a Bachelor and a Master of Business Administration in Financial Management from Goldey-Beacom College.  She is unafraid to speak her mind and advocate for the needs of students, faculty and staff.  

As a strong leader who is fearless, Laura is driven and encouraging to others; she creates a workspace environment where all are welcome to thrive. She is a caring friend and a compassionate dog mom to her sweet pup, Taco. Laura is an inspirational woman with a big heart. 

Jackie Berrett is an incredible coworker with a vibrant energy that makes a big difference in the workplace. Her warm and welcoming presence encourages anyone who walks through the door to immediately feel at ease. She’s always willing to step in and help, whether it’s answering calls, assisting different departments, or helping students with everything from directions to photo ID pictures. Her joyful attitude makes her such a valuable resource for both the staff and students. Jackie’s friendly demeanor and kind, cheerful nature make it easy for everyone to reach out and feel comfortable asking for assistance. Her ability to juggle multiple tasks and still stay friendly and calm is truly impressive.

Dr. Heather Pfleger is the Vice President of Academic Affairs at P.I.T. Heather earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from St. John’s University. She demonstrates unwavering support for our community through her leadership and advocacy. Her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities is exemplified by her initiatives to empower program directors in refining and expanding their programs. Under her guidance, these efforts have transformed hundreds of students’ lives each term, offering them new career pathways and degrees that align with evolving industry demands. Heather’s dedication fosters academic excellence and nurtures progress within our community. Her work ensures that education remains a powerful tool for societal advancement. 

Dr. Elizabeth Menschner is a member of Pennsylvania Institute of Technology’s Board of Trustees and serves as the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders. Prior to this role, Elizabeth was the Vice President of Patient Care Services at Riddle Hospital, and was the interim Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care at Temple University Health System. She has a doctorate degree in Executive Nursing Practice from Drexel University.

Abby Miller is an incredible person, truly dedicated to both her work and her personal life at home. She balances her role helping students on campus and visiting high schools to share the word about the unique programs offered at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology. Her commitment is evident. Abby is dedicated to her students and treats all her coworkers with dignity and respect. She’s always willing to lend a hand and support her colleagues. Her collaborative spirit makes the workplace both  an uplifting and an efficient place to be. Her love and care extend beyond just her professional life as she is a dedicated cat mom. It’s clear she has a big heart in all aspects of her life.

Kathy Hynson, LPN is a member of the Board of Trustees at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology and is the Lead Outpatient Nurse at White Horse Village, where she has worked for more than 25 years. Kathy has dedicated her career to working within our community. She serves as a deaconess at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and annually organizes a group that participates in the Susan G. Komen Walk for a Cure. Fun fact about Kathy — she enjoys riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle!

Rosie Marcher’s welcoming spirit extends beyond just faculty, and  students feel the same sense of inclusion and encouragement. It’s difficult to pinpoint just one moment when Rosie has made a significant impact on a student’s success, as she consistently goes above and beyond to create opportunities for all learners. Whether it’s helping students navigate academic challenges or providing guidance during moments of miscommunication, Rosie is always there, offering the support and mentorship that make a real difference in their educational journeys.

Susan K. Garrison is a member of Pennsylvania Institute of Technology’s Board of Trustees. Susan is a graduate of Villanova University’s School of Law. She has a Juris Doctor degree, Master of Laws in Taxation, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gettysburg College. After graduation, Susan became an associate with the firms of Dechert, Price & Rhoads, Surrick & Gollatz, and Gollatz & Associates prior to establishing Garrison Law Offices in 1986. Susan is a recipient of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce’s Athena Award.

Megan Hanna has taken on a wonderful leadership role in the Admissions team at Pennsylvania Institute of Technology where she has done a fantastic job in assisting her coworkers and students. Megan is always available to help the people around her  and creates a welcoming, friendly environment. She is very kind and thoughtful,and goes above-and-beyond planning staff icebreakers and intimate receptions. She is a strong and capable woman.

Mary Kathryn Burke is a member of Pennsylvania Institute of Technology’s Board of Trustees and served as the Chief Executive Officer at White Horse Village until her retirement. She holds a Master’s in Health Care Administration from Cabrini College. Mary Kathryn is dedicated in her career to helping others through social work, charitable giving and best practices for health care advocacy.

Mercedes Johnson is a marvelous, supportive person. She’s always willing to help her neighbors, whether it’s within the Admissions Department or by supporting the work of the college’s marketing team. Her dedication to her students’ success and future is inspiring. It’s clear she’s someone who exceeds their expectations. Mercedes is the go-to person for the culinary arts, too. Having someone like Mercedes around who’s a foodie and has great recommendations for culture, events and creative ideas is such a bonus. You can always count on her to help find the best spots to visit and she’s often recommending to her colleagues venues that offer patrons something new and delicious. Let’s not forget about the love she has for her dog , Cheetah.