President – Linzey Zoccola – Dog Trainer On Wheels <Linzey Zoccola is a technology dependent, power wheelchair user living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. After receiving her first service dog in 2001 she became an active volunteer in the industry. Linzey has attended many Clicker Expos (innovative animal training expo), and various other training seminars by leaders in the industry such as Kathy Sdao. Linzey has volunteered with Penn State Medical School as a patient in the annual Patient Project since 1998. She was an intern prior to becoming the Puppy Program Coordinator at Susquehanna Service Dogs from 2006 until 2009 when she founded Phoenix Assistance Dogs.
Treasurer – Elizabeth Barna – Trailblazer
Elizabeth Barna has led an accomplished life both professionally and personally all while leading the path as an individual with a disability. She was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy in 1982. Elizabeth used the assistance of two service dogs from Canine Partners for Life from 1994 until 2012. Elizabeth graduated from Immaculata University in 2003 with a BA in English and a minor in Communications. Upon graduation in 2003, Elizabeth moved in with her fiance, Joe, and began working with JEVS Human Services. In 2013, she left JEVS to teach her son full time at home. In 2004 Elizabeth’s lifelong dream, something every doctor said couldn’t be done – happened when she gave birth to her healthy baby boy, Max. Max is a bright and eager 10 year old and Elizabeth’s pride and joy. She currently volunteers as a moderator on social media for Phoenix Assistance Dogs.
Secretary – Gail Diem – From Babies to Puppies, She’s Got Ya Covered
Gail Diem has more than 20 years of experience on numerous committees for the Muscular Dystrophy Association including Parent Advisories, Shamrock sales, Gala’s, 16 years of Ride For Life chair member, and 16 years on local Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon committees. Beginning in 1998 Gail built an in-home Daycare which was a 4 Keystone STAR facility from the ground up. While in the field still, Gail earned her Early Childhood and School Age Professionals (CKC)/ Pennsylvania Big Ideas Framework (Big Ideas) and Individual Professional Development Plan for Early Childhood and School-Age Professionals (IPDP) certificates. From 2001 – 2009 Gail raised more than 10 puppies for Susquehanna Service Dogs. In 2008 Gail left the early childhood industry in order to care full time for her daughters medical needs. She has raised 6 dogs for Phoenix Assistance Dogs of Central PA.
Officer – Dr. Amanda McKenna Lee, OM – Doctor by day, outdoor enthusiast by night, and overall dog lover.
After graduating from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009, Dr. Amanda Lee continued on to her Pediatric Residency at the University of New Mexico. Dr. Lee, who is bi-lingual in English and Spanish is thriving as a Pediatrician at Yakima Valley Farmworkers Clinic in Toppenish, Washington. In her spare time she loves cooking, traveling the world, and hiking and camping with her two rescue dogs Suki and Gauro.
Officer – Jill Tice – Mom by Day, Dog rescuer by Night.
Jill Tice is a leader in the rescue world. As founder of the PA chapter of Pet Matchmaker Rescue, established in 2003, Jill has pulled and saved over 2,000 dogs from death row. Jill has donated more than 5 puppies to Phoenix Assistance Dogs and continues to evaluate for future candidates. Jill and her husband are raising their 2 boys and enjoy participating in their sporting events!
Officer – David Zoccola – He’s got a Tune in his Heart and Pup in his Home
David Zoccola attended Millersville University from 1975 – 1981 and has extensive background in reading classical music. He has developed a private piano studio which he has run for 30 years full time, and although it is for all ages and skill levels, he excels with students with a variety of disabilities, especially autism, and young children. David Zoccola has an extensive amount of experience in performing including church organist for 3 years, over 1,000 gigs as a solo pianist performing all styles, and five year member of a local New Orleans style band which gives him a great deal of public relations knowledge. David also runs a full restoration, rebuilding, and tuning piano service. David and his wife are Breeder Care Takers for Phoenix Assistance Dogs.