Executive Board
Janel Vancas
Janel Vancas is the current Director of Curriculum Innovation at IU8. She has served in this role since January of 2018. Under her supervision is the STEM Outreach Center. This center was created due to the increasing demands and evolvement of STEM Education in the Commonwealth. The Lending Center began under Janel’s direction and she continues to lead that work. She has also played a vital role in the development of the CSB2 STEM Ecosystem and serves on the Executive Committee. Janel values STEM Education and the positive impact it can have on local communities.
Brenda Calhoun
As the Community Engagement Coordinator at Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8, I focus on making mutually beneficial connections between the work done at IU 8 and the other amazing agencies around us. Examples include school districts, certainly, but also businesses, civic organizations, libraries, non-profits, and any other group of individuals who are striving to make our community the strongest it can be.
Cheryl Morgan
I am the Director of Somerset County Library and Administrator of the SCFLS consortium. With a background in IT and library services, I help my team develop programs and services that improve lives in our community. Through the SCFLS STEAM Initiative, my team leads STEM-focused clubs and camps to inspire local youth and support lifelong learning.
Jen Sklodowski
I am an effective communicator, leader, and problem solver who builds coordination and relationship-building skills within the community for the purpose of Homeless Veterans and Active Service Members.
Edward Zovinka
I’m a Chemistry Professor at Saint Francis University, passionate about hands-on research and science outreach. I’ve led the R.O.C.K. program for 25+ years, reaching thousands of students, and helped bring cutting-edge instruments to SFU through grants. I’m currently chairing the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh and serving on Pittcon committees. I love connecting science with education and community.
CSB2 Ecosystem 