Sister Deirdre Mullan RSM was born in Derry, Ireland and served for over 20 years in schools as a teacher and administrator. She worked extensively to bring young people together across political and religious divides and promote mutual understanding.

• Director of the Mercy Office at the United Nations.
• Founding member of The Mercy Girl Effect leadership initiative.
• Advocate for women and girls globally.

During this panel she will explore leadership and the ways gains in equality of access have shifted in recent years.

Dr. Maria Montoro Edwards has served as President and CEO of Maternal and Family Health Services since 2020. She focuses on expanding access to maternal and family health programs throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.

• Co-Chair of the Perinatal Action Collaborative.
• Member of the PA Maternal Mortality Review Committee.
• Leader in community health initiatives.

Lori Chaffers is a community leader dedicated to strengthening families and improving access to resources throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. As President and CEO of Outreach – Center for Community Resources, she leads initiatives that expand services and community partnerships.

With more than 15 years of experience in the child welfare system, Lori has worked as a caseworker, supervisor, and administrator developing programs that support youth and families transitioning to independence.

• Leader in cross-system collaboration supporting youth and families.
• Founding member of regional transition initiatives.
• Advocate for community-driven solutions.

Mary Griffin Cummings, Esquire, was appointed Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Peoples Financial Services Corp. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Peoples Security Bank and Trust Company, effective July 1, 2024. Before that appointment, she served in senior legal leadership roles with FNCB Bancorp, Inc. and FNCB Bank.

Her career also includes service as Associate General Counsel, Resident Counsel, and General Counsel for Wyoming Valley Health Care System, along with private practice and legal consulting work. She is a Pennsylvania licensed attorney admitted to practice in the Courts of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

• Board member of PA Bankers Services Corporation.
• Board of Governors Chairperson for Bankers Settlement Services–Capital Region.
• Trustee of Misericordia University.
• Chair and board member of the Northeastern PA Board of Directors of the American Red Cross.