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Susan Vernicek-berkowitz, President
Susan Vernicek-Berkowitz is a certified mindset and business coach, best known as your Mindset + Achieve™ Coach. She’s a Seasoned Speaker, Author, Podcast Host, and Creator of wellness magazine, IdentityMagazine.net. She continues to spread her inspirational energy and expertise worldwide via workshops, conferences, Podcasts, TV, and digital and print channels, including Identity Magbook and her #1 Amazon Bestseller, “Get All A’s in the Game of Life: Insights Along the Way”, Entrepreneur Edition and Mother’s Edition. You can find her articles and tips cited online in The Huffington Post, EmpowHER, BlogHer, Thrive Global, Medium, and Yahoo Shine; as well as in books and magazines published by Harper Collins, Bright Street Books, Reinvention Press.
She embodies the notions of the modern-day woman that she advocates for all women. Susan successfully juggles and enjoys the Mompreneur life, adventure, dancing, golf, and traveling with the loving support of her husband and twin toddlers in The Poconos, PA.
Maritza Almodovar, Treasurer
Maritza is a proud mother, wife, and Nana who has been living in the scenic Poconos for over 18 years. With three adult children and two grandkids, she cherishes the joys of family life and shares a cozy home with her loving husband of over 20+ years.
For over 20 years, she has been honing her skills as a bookkeeper, but when the pandemic hit, she decided to take a leap of faith and become a freelancer, launching her own business, and gaining a loyal clientele. Her hard work and determination have paid off, and she is ow thriving in her new role.
She is not just focused on her own success – She is also passionate about empowering and encouraging women and young girls all over the world to become the best version of themselves. She firmly believe that the possibilities are unlimited for everyone and that we are all here to fulfill a purpose. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams and achieve greatness.
When she is not working, she loves spending time with family and friends, soaking up the beauty of the Poconos or sitting in front of the beach – Her Happy Place.
Caitlin Hamlin, secretary
Caitlin Hamlin works at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. In her role, she leads strategic programs aimed at fostering business growth, enhancing community engagement, and driving economic development across the region. Caitlin works closely with local stakeholders with expertise and hands-on experience in service, revenue generation, and event management with the goal of strengthening the area’s economic vitality. She is a proud graduate of East Stroudsburg University where she has earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing and a Master of Science in Management and Leadership.
Outside of work, Caitlin embraces both a life of experiences and relaxation. She’s always up for hiking a new trail, exploring local festivals, or traveling and uncovering hidden local gems. On the days when there is not an adventure, she enjoys spending evenings at home in Easton with her fiancé, Nick, and Leo, their dog. Here you'd find her listening to podcasts, painting, or unwinding with some of her favorite shows and movies.
Robert Berkowitz, MBA, board member
Robert Berkowitz, MBA, a Registered Representative with NYLIFE Securities, leverages years of financial experience. His diverse background spans both sports and financial services, transitioning from coaching to helping individuals and families secure their loved ones' futures.
Rob holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Sports Marketing from LIU Southampton College and an MBA from Gardner-Webb University. As a Wantagh, New York native, husband, and father of twins, Rob's passion for soccer, coaching, and financial planning has driven his multifaceted career. In his role as a New York Life Registered Representative, he's committed to providing comprehensive financial guidance, retirement planning, and estate planning drawing from his extensive experience and expertise.
Ava biskup, board member
Ava's Journey: From Volunteer to Youth Leader
Youth Infusion had the privilege of meeting Ava Biskup at East Stroudsburg High School South through her involvement in the Philosophy Club. It was there that Ava and her peers first connected with our Youth Talks Podcast Program, amplifying their voices on critical topics that mattered most to them—especially as the War in Ukraine unfolded. This platform gave them the space to share their thoughts, concerns, and hopes for the world, allowing them to shape conversations within their school community.
Ava didn’t stop there. Her passion for global issues led her to found and lead her school’s Model UN Club, where she invited Youth Infusion to speak about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are at the core of our Youth Leadership Advisory Board (YLAB) Program. It was clear early on that Ava had a powerful voice and the desire to make a difference.
In April 2024, Ava volunteered at Youth Infusion's Earth Day Event, taking on leadership roles and using her growing confidence to mentor younger girls, ages 10-15, as part of our Girls Infused Program. Watching Ava guide and inspire these young participants was a testament to her natural leadership skills and her ability to connect with others.
Now a Student Ambassador at her school, Ava represents Youth Infusion with pride. She actively promotes the YLAB Program to her peers, encouraging other young people to get involved and become leaders in their own communities. Through her involvement with Youth Infusion, she has had opportunities to meet local state representatives and attend community outreach events, developing crucial 21st-century skills that will serve her for years to come.
But perhaps the most profound change we’ve seen in Ava is her growing confidence. From podcasting to mentoring, from speaking at public events to stepping into leadership roles, Ava’s journey with Youth Infusion has transformed her into a strong, capable young leader. In May 2025, she will take the stage as one of the featured speakers at the NEPA Youth-Led Conference at Kalahari Resorts, sharing her inspiring story with other young people, leaders, and changemakers.
In recognition of her remarkable leadership, Ava has also joined our Youth Infusion's Board of Directors to represent youth voices and perspectives.
Ava’s journey with Youth Infusion is a powerful reminder of how young leaders, when given the right opportunities and support, can thrive and create lasting change in their communities.