Mark Hoovler named to the Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Council

John Daly-King with Mark Hoovler

Mark Hoovler has been appointed by Governor Josh Shapiro to Pennsylvania's Long-Term Care Council. The council provides recommendations to improve regulations, licensing, financing and the delivery of long-term care services to the state's elderly.

Mark's appointment arose from his personal, hands-on experience as an elderly and disabled primary caregiver. As such, he gained abilities and strengths in the areas of physical disability, mental delay and communication with older people. He was also chairperson of the Erie County Human Relations Commission.

Of particular interest to Eie Gay News readers is Mark's involvement with matters that impact our community. He was president of PFLAG Erie for 12 years and PFLAG Pennsylvania state coordinator (PFLAG is the oldest organization in the US dedicated to the support of parents, family, friends and allies of the LGBTQ community). He was also active in the NW PA Pride Alliance,

Mark obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, which led to his employment with PNC Financial Services. He was a branch manager for four years, but then was promoted to PNC Business Banking, where he served as an officer and a vice president for some 24 years. It was there that Mark gained his experience in small business and non-profit financial affairs.

"I am honored and humbled by the governor's appointment to this important and sensitive council, " said Mark. "I worked as a personal friend of the late John Daly King, who was in a long-term care facility for the final 15 years of his life. During that time, I experienced wonderful care plan team meetings with the medical staff and physical therapists who attended to John. We organized activities and social outings. We addressed John's personalized nutritional and dietary needs. At times, I even met with the facility's spiritual advisor, as well as the financial and insurance staff. My pride comes from John himself, who told me, 'Be strong, brave, and remain steady for others in the future.' That has been the philosophy I have carried with me and hope to instill in others."

About the Author

David Gurzenski-Lukes David Gurzenski-Lukes has a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. He has a long career as an editor and communications professional for a number of universities, including UCLA. He was a publications editor for United Way of Greater Los Angeles and community relations director for Pacific Beach Community Hospital in San Diego, California. Since David has been retired, he has written a book, "A Gay Grandfather Grows Up," which details his difficult coming-out journey. While David has only been an Erie resident for a short period, he is already involved with various local organizations, including Aging With Pride. He has two daughters with professional careers. Jennifer is an attorney in Washington, DC, and Julie is a computer programmer in Jupiter, Florida. He also has two grandsons. Drew is a pilot with American Airlines, and Jake is a student at Florida State University.