Renowned healthcare leader, academic innovator, and public affairs & corporate communications expert join university trustees
Alvernia University announces the appointment of Charles Barbera, MBA '01, MD; Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D.; and Patrick Witmer, MPA to the university’s board of trustees. These new members bring a diverse range of expertise and leadership that will significantly contribute to the university's mission and strategic goals.
“Dr. Barbera, Dr. Gates, and Mr. Witmer each bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to service that matches the university’s core values,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “Their unique perspectives will enhance our efforts to provide a transformative educational experience for our students and foster community engagement that leads to our student experience, opportunities, innovation and economic development for the communities we serve.”
Barbera, a 2001 graduate of Alvernia’s MBA program, returns as an Alvernia trustee after previously serving on the board from 2014-2022.
Alvernia and the board of trustees also acknowledge the valued service and commitment of departing board members Stephen Najarian, Paul Trunk, and John P. Weidenhammer.
The Alvernia University Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in guiding the university's mission, ensuring its financial stability, and overseeing its strategic direction. The board members are instrumental in fostering a strong connection between the university and the broader community.
“We are honored to welcome these three outstanding individuals to our Board of Trustees,” said Alvernia University Board of Trustees Chairperson Gregory J. Shemanski. “Their expertise in healthcare, higher education, and corporate communications will provide invaluable insights and leadership as we continue to expand and advance Alvernia’s mission. We also thank Steve, Paul and John for their instrumental guidance and contributions to the university during their board tenure.”
About the New Trustees
Charles Barbera, MBA '01, MD
Dr. Charles F. Barbera is the President and CEO of Reading Hospital, becoming the first physician to hold this position in the hospital's 150-year history. He joined Reading Hospital in 1996 and served as Chair of Emergency Medicine for over 20 years. Dr. Barbera was instrumental in the creation of Reading Hospital's Trauma Center, Pediatric Emergency Department, and Psychiatric Emergency Department, and led the hospital's telemedicine efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. He holds a Doctor of Medicine from Temple University, an MBA from Alvernia University, and an MPH from The George Washington University.
Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D.
Jane McBride Gates, Ph.D. has had a distinguished career in higher education, most recently serving as Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs for the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System. She has also held leadership roles at Western Connecticut State University and Savannah State University. Dr. Gates earned her Ph.D. in Public Policy from Southern Illinois University, an MPA from the University of Arkansas, and a BA in Political Science from Arkansas State University.
Patrick Witmer, MPA
Patrick Witmer is the Corporate Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications at B. Braun Medical Inc., where he oversees government relations, external affairs, and corporate communications in North America. He has previously held leadership roles at Merck & Co., Air Products and Chemicals, and the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Witmer holds an MPA from the University of Pennsylvania and a BA in Economics and Political Science from Millersville University.
