LeadingAge PA Honors Leaders and Innovators in Aging Services with 2025 Distinguished Service Awards

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (June 17, 2025) — LeadingAge PA, an association representing more than 400 aging services providers, announced the recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Service Awards. These awards spotlight the outstanding work carried out by individual members and member organizations through their involvement, innovation, leadership, and advocacy in the field of aging services.

"This year’s Distinguished Service Award honorees are shining examples of excellence in service, whether they are uplifting residents, working hand in hand with colleagues, or driving positive change in their communities,” said LeadingAge PA President and CEO Garry Pezzano. “We take pride in honoring the remarkable impact of their unwavering dedication and leadership."

Here is a list of the winners:

Paul P. Haas Lifetime Achievement Award, Robert Bertolette, Phoebe Ministries, Allentown, Pennsylvania. Robert Bertolette began his commitment to aging services at 16 as a caregiver for his adoptive parents. With a 45-year career, he has served as a social worker, nursing home administrator, and leader, including 25 years as President & CEO of Riddle Village, interim President & CEO of LeadingAge PA, and currently as a Governing Board member of Phoebe Ministries. His initiatives include developing a Special Care Unit for individuals with advanced dementia and launching wellness programs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leader of the Year, Lauren Clark, United Church of Christ Homes, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Lauren Clark has dedicated over 34 years to aging services, beginning as a Director of Nursing and currently serving as Executive Director of Community and Home-Based Services at United Church of Christ Homes in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. She chose this field to positively impact and connect with older adults and their families.

Manager of the Year, Albert Vega, Garden Spot Village, New Holland, Pennsylvania. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard and working as an educator, Albert Vega joined Garden Spot Village, drawn by its strong community and mission to enhance the lives of older adults. As the Director of Environmental Services, he focuses on honoring past generations and creating a space where residents feel valued and at home.

Innovation of the Year, Baptist Senior Family and Carnegie Mellon University. Baptist Senior Family in Pittsburgh has been dedicated to enhancing the care of older adults for over 115 years. In 2023, they partnered with Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute to develop assistive robotic technology designed to enhance the quality of life for seniors, particularly those with challenges related to limb control and memory.

Volunteer of the Year, Tyler Youngkin, Morningstar Living in Moravian Hall Square, Nazareth, Pennsylvania. For the past nine years, Tyler Youngkin has volunteered 5,315 hours at Morningstar Living. His journey in aging services began assisting elderly neighbors and continues with family members today. Tyler enjoys building strong relationships with residents and staff, ensuring everyone feels cared for and has reasons to smile.

Direct Caregiver of the Year, Bradley Davis, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, Washington, Pennsylvania. Bradley Davis has worked at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network in Washington, Pennsylvania, for 28 years, starting as a Certified Nursing Assistant and advancing to Certified Nurse Aide Team Lead. His commitment to aging services began when he cared for his grandmother, which fostered a passion for supporting older adults.

Licensed Caregiver of the Year, Sharon Stephens, Tel Hai Retirement Community, Honey Brook, Pennsylvania. From a young age, Sharon dreamed of becoming a nurse to help others during tough times. She began her career as a nursing assistant in senior care and later pursued her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. Sharon enjoys the variety of her daily responsibilities and finds fulfillment in meeting the needs of those in her care with genuine compassion.

Staff Member of the Year, Beth Royster, Fellowship Community, Whitehall, Pennsylvania. Beth Royster’s journey into aging services started when she cared for her sister-in-law after a stroke, revealing her true calling. As a housekeeper at Fellowship Community, she feels blessed to make a difference in the lives of residents through engaging conversations and shared laughter. Her compassion, energy, and heart make her work incredibly rewarding.

Outstanding Business Partner of the Year, Affinity Health Services. For nearly 30 years, Affinity Health Services has provided consulting and management services to organizations in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region. Under the leadership of CEO Denise McQuown-Hatter, the company strives to impact every life it touches positively.

Learn more about the 2025 Distinguished Service Award here.

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