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Author: Jules Slater

Geisinger Lewistown Hospital recognized by Forbes as one of America’s top hospitals

Posted on by Jules Slater

LEWISTOWN, Pa. – Geisinger Lewistown Hospital has been named to the inaugural Forbes Top Hospitals 2026 list, a distinction that highlights excellence in clinical outcomes, best practices, value and patient experience. Alongside its Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 5-Star rating and Leapfrog “A” grade, this new recognition further positions Geisinger Lewistown Hospital among the nation’s top general acute care hospitals and underscores its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care.

Forbes’ unique rating system evaluated approximately 5,400 hospitals across the U.S., using data from the CMS Provider Data Catalog. Of those, 2,500 hospitals met inclusion criteria, and only 253 earned a 5-star rating. The methodology placed the greatest weight on clinical outcomes — such as mortality and readmission rates — while also adjusting for social drivers of health, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team,” said Sabrina Summer, D.O., chief medical officer for Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. “Every day, we strive to provide exceptional care that improves the lives of patients in our community. Being named among the top hospitals in the country underscores the fact that our efforts are making a real difference.”

The Forbes ranking underscores Geisinger Lewistown Hospital’s ongoing commitment to transparency, quality and innovation in health care.

“By focusing on measurable outcomes and patient experience, we continue to set the standard for excellence in the region and beyond,” added Dr. Summer.

About Geisinger

Geisinger is among the nation’s leading providers of value-based care, serving 1.2 million people in urban and rural communities across central and northeastern Pennsylvania. Founded in 1915 by philanthropist Abigail Geisinger, the nonprofit system generates more than $8 billion in annual revenues across 163 care sites — including 10 hospital campuses — and Geisinger Health Plan, with more than half a million members in commercial and government plans. Geisinger College of Health Sciences educates more than 500 medical professionals annually and is conducting more than 1,400 clinical research studies. With more than 27,000 employees, including 1,800 employed physicians and 5,200 registered nurses, Geisinger is among Pennsylvania’s largest employers, having an estimated economic impact of $16.8 billion on the state’s economy. In 2024, Geisinger joined Risant Health, a nonprofit charitable organization created to expand and accelerate value-based care across the country. Learn more at geisinger.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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Geisinger recognized for supporting health worker well-being

Posted on by Jules Slater

DANVILLE, Pa. – For the second straight year, Geisinger has been recognized as a WellBeing First Champion by ALL IN: WellBeing First for Healthcare. 

As a WellBeing First Champion, Geisinger has verified that licensure and credentialing applications for physicians and advanced practice providers don’t stigmatize mental healthcare and treatment. This means health workers at Geisingercan seek needed care without fear of losing their license or job.

“This recognition demonstrates Geisinger’s deep commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of our workforce,” said Susan Parisi, M.D., Geisinger’s chief wellness officer. “Geisinger continuously promotes an open dialogue about mental health and reducing stigma to encourage our employees to seek help. We often talk about the importance of taking care of ourselves so that we can best care for our patients; with these credentialing changes for physicians and APPs, we’re putting our words into action.”

Verification that all invasive or stigmatizing language around mental health has been removed from applications is confirmed annually by ALL IN: WellBeing First for Healthcare, a coalition of leading healthcare organizations that works to eliminate barriers for health workers to obtain needed mental healthcare.

“Across the country, health workers are at an increased risk for burnout and mental health conditions,” said Corey Feist, organization co-founder. “Many health workers feel they cannot speak up about their mental health without being criticized by colleagues or losing their jobs. Today, physicians and nurses die by suicide at two times the rate of the general population. We as a nation must better protect these lives, and I applaud our Wellbeing First Champions for their leadership to support the well-being of health workers.”

About Geisinger 

Geisinger is among the nation’s leading providers of value-based care, serving 1.2 million people in urban and rural communities across Pennsylvania. Founded in 1915 by philanthropist Abigail Geisinger, the non-profit system generates $10 billion in annual revenues across 134 care sites — including 10 hospital campuses — and Geisinger Health Plan, with 600,000 members in commercial and government plans. The Geisinger College of Health Sciences educates more than 500 medical professionals annually and conducts more than 1,400 clinical research studies. With 26,000 employees, including 1,600 employed physicians, Geisinger is among Pennsylvania’s largest employers with an estimated economic impact of $14 billion to the state’s economy. On March 31, 2024, Geisinger became the first member of Risant Health, a new nonprofit charitable organization created to expand and accelerate value-based care across the country. Learn more at geisinger.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

About ALL IN: WellBeing First for Healthcare

ALL IN: Wellbeing First for Healthcare, led by the The Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, is a coalition of national organizations committed to advancing a state where the healthcare workforce’s wellbeing is prioritized, and individual health workers feel valued and supported so they can sustain their sense of purpose and meaning in their work. Coalition members include AHIP, American Association of Colleges of Nursing, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Dental Association, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Hospital Association, American Medical Association, American Nurses Foundation, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, CAA Foundation, CHARM, Federation of State Physician Health Programs, FIGS, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Heart of Safety Coalition, Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Johnson & Johnson Foundation, Moral Injury of Healthcare, National Medical Association, National Black Nurses Association, Medicine Forward, Organizational Wellbeing Solutions, Philippine Nurses Association of America, The Physicians Foundation, the Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare, and Thrive Global.  

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Shop with Purpose This Holiday Season at Good Day Café

Posted on by Jules Slater

Looking for thoughtful, easy holiday gifts for clients, employees, teachers, service providers, neighbors, friends, and family? Good Day Café has you covered with delicious, locally made gifts that feel personal and meaningful, without the stress of searching for the perfect item.

When you choose to gift Good Day Café items this holiday season, you are giving something people truly enjoy while also supporting something that truly matters.

Perfect for Business and Personal Gifting

Holiday Treats
Assorted cookie gift bags: $15
Half dozen sugar or chocolate chip cookies: $6

Coffee Lover’s Gift Bundle – $45
Includes a bag of Good Day Café coffee, a café mug, and flavored syrup. Beautifully packaged and ready to gift.

Premium Coffee Blends
One blend: $21
Two blends: $40
All three blends: $50

Mugs & Merchandise
Perfect for everyday gifting and team appreciation

Gift Cards
An easy option for clients, staff, and last-minute shoppers—let them choose their favorites.

How to Shop

  • Shop in store for coffee, cookies, mugs, and gift bundles. Located at Hamilton Square Shopping Center
  • Shop merchandise online at gooddaycafe.org/merch
  • Purchase gift cards in store or online at
    https://squareup.com/gift/GJ06WRP7NPEFM/order

Good Day Café is operated by Strawberry Fields and provides meaningful employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and mental health challenges. Every purchase helps create opportunities that build confidence, independence, and skills.

This year, skip the generic gift basket. Choose gifts that taste great, support local, and make a real difference, one cup, one cookie, and one opportunity at a time.

Scholar Hotels Invites the Community to Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays at the Nittany Lion Inn & The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center

Posted on by Jules Slater

State College, PA — December 2025 — Holiday cheer is in full swing at the Nittany Lion Inn and The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center, where a festive lineup of events, culinary experiences, and hands-on workshops is transforming both hotels into the most spirited destinations in Happy Valley. From nostalgic traditions to interactive family fun, each event has been designed to bring the community — and visitors — together for a season of celebration.

Local media are invited to attend, capture the festivities, and experience these beloved properties during the holidays.

A Season of Culinary Delights & Festive Experiences

Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Beginning December 6
Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE at the Nittany Lion Inn has launched weekend brunch — an elevated, cozy morning experience complete with seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a fireside atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing start to the day.

Holiday Luncheon Buffets at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
December 5, 12, & 19
Designed for small businesses, family celebrations, and corporate teams, these festive lunchtime buffets offer a stress-free holiday meal with a beautifully curated seasonal menu.

Feast of the Seven Fishes — Christmas Eve Dinner at the Nittany Lion Inn
Guests can reserve a seat for this cherished culinary tradition featuring a thoughtfully crafted Seven Fishes menu — a timeless and flavorful way to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve & New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens, The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center
The Gardens is hosting two special holiday brunches, each featuring celebratory menus, warm ambiance, and dishes designed to bring people together.

The Return of a Beloved Tradition: The Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica

One of the Inn’s most nostalgic holiday traditions is back for the first time since reopening — a handcrafted gingerbread replica of the Nittany Lion Inn, created by the artist who made the display famous more than two decades ago.

Heather Luse of Delectable Delights, known for her longtime work with the Penn State Bakery, is once again bringing this sweet piece of history to life. The Nittany Lion Inn culinary team has contributed additional gingerbread creations to complete a full holiday display that promises to be a must-see attraction for guests, families, and photographers.

The display is located in the lobby near Harper’s boutiques and will be available throughout the holiday season.

Stan the Gingerbread Man: A Whimsical Holiday Scavenger Hunt

This year, the Nittany Lion Inn introduces Stan the Gingerbread Man, a playful character who “travels” around the Nittany Lion Inn. Guests are invited to join the hunt, find Stan in his daily hiding place, and claim a complimentary hot chocolate as their reward.

A charming, interactive activation — and a fun photo and video opportunity for media.

Family-Friendly Events & Creative Workshops

Brunch with Santa at the Nittany Lion Inn
December 13 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Families are invited to enjoy a magical holiday brunch experience complete with festive dishes and a visit from Santa himself.

Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
The Penn Stater | December 14
Guests can create their own custom wreaths using seasonal greens and locally sourced materials.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/wreath-decorating-with-santa-penn-stater-holiday-2025

Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
Nittany Lion Inn | December 21
This hands-on floral workshop allows guests to design their own Christmas centerpiece in a cozy seasonal setting.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/christmas-floral-centerpiece-workshop-the-nittany-lion-inn-holiday-2025

A Festive Invitation to Local Media

Both properties welcome media to visit, take photos and video of the décor and events, and experience the warmth and joy of the season firsthand.
Interviews with hotel leadership, culinary team members, and event partners can be arranged upon request.

About Scholar Hotel Group

Scholar Hotel Group owns and operates a growing portfolio of hospitality properties with a passion for delivering exceptional experiences rooted in comfort, community, and local pride. The company is dedicated to preserving cherished traditions while bringing fresh energy, elevated dining, and innovative programming to each destination. Scholar Hotels currently manages: The Nittany Lion Inn; The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center; Scholar Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton; Hyatt Place; Courtyard by Marriott; and the Residence Inn in State College, PA, in addition to other properties located in Syracuse, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Morgantown, WV; and Radford, VA. 

HOLIDAY EVENTS AT A GLANCE — NITTANY LION INN & THE PENN STATER

December 5
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service (exact service window as scheduled)

Beginning December 6
• Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday through the season
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

December 10–January 1 Holiday Week (Ongoing)
• “Stan the Gingerbread Man” Interactive Hunt — Nittany Lion Inn
Daily — Guests find Stan to earn a complimentary hot chocolate.

December 12
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service

December 13
• Brunch with Santa — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

December 14
• Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — The Penn Stater

December 19
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service

December 21
• Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — Nittany Lion Inn

December 24 (Christmas Eve)
• Feast of the Seven Fishes Dinner — Nittany Lion Inn
• Christmas Eve Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater

January 1 (New Year’s Day)
• New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater
Time: As scheduled

Ongoing Holiday Feature
• Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica — Lobby at the Nittany Lion Inn
Available daily throughout the holiday season.

Penn Highlands Healthcare Kicks off Annual Giving Campaign

Posted on by Jules Slater

Penn Highlands Healthcare has kicked off its Annual Giving Campaign, dedicated to Women’s Cancer Care, ensuring funding for hope and healing. With your support of the campaign, “Together for Her,” the health system can continue to offer early detection screenings, access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care that makes a real difference.

“When I first heard the words, you do in fact have breast cancer, I was terrified. I was diagnosed with stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, and my world was turned upside down,” said Melissa Wayne who is a breast cancer survivor.  “From my very first meeting, Dr. Kelley Smith and her staff gave me hope. The care and skill she showed saved my life, and there are no words to express how grateful I am to her. Dr. Smith never made me feel like just another patient, but instead as a person whose well-being truly mattered.”

“Women who come to Penn Highlands Healthcare receive innovative therapies delivered by knowledgeable and skilled professionals using advanced technology. We know that a key factor in their outcome and care are their health screenings. Screenings save lives for patients, and improve overall outcome and staging of disease faster, than those who do not get regular screenings as part of their cancer prevention,” said Kelley Smith, DO, FACOS, a board-certified general surgeon at Penn Highlands Healthcare who specializes in women’s health.

The Annual Giving Campaign includes Penn Highlands Brookville, Penn Highlands Clearfield, Penn Highlands DuBois, Penn Highlands Elk, Penn Highlands Huntingdon, Penn Highlands State College and Penn Highlands Tyrone.

Members of the community can make a gift to the Penn Highlands Healthcare Annual Giving Campaign to help offer early detection screenings, access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care that makes a real difference. To donate online, visit //giving.phhealthcare.org/giving or send a check payable to Penn Highlands Healthcare to Penn Highlands Fund Development at 100 Hospital Avenue, DuBois, PA 15801.

Direct questions to Lindsey Herzing, Donor Relations Manager for Penn Highlands Healthcare System Fund Development, at ldherzing@phhealthcare.org or call 814-275-3902.