Communities In Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania to Induct 3 Former Board Chairs to its Leadership Circle at Champions For Education on Nov. 13
Michael Bruckner, Susan Larkin and Matt Sorrentino will be honored for the impact that they’ve made on the nonprofit’s growth.
ALLENTOWN, Pa. (September 11, 2025)—Communities In Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania (CIS of Eastern PA) is holding its annual Champions For Education celebration on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at DeSales University Center in Center Valley.
During the event, the nonprofit will induct three new members into its Leadership Circle, all former board chairs: Michael Bruckner, retired vice president of external affairs and community relations at Muhlenberg College; Susan Larkin, chief operating officer at Allied Personnel Services; and Matt Sorrentino, former chair of Norris McLaughlin and retired CEO of HealthNetwork Laboratories.
“Michael, Susan, and Matt have each played a central role in shaping CIS of Eastern PA into the organization it is today,” said President & CEO of CIS of Eastern PA Tim Mulligan. “Through their leadership, actions and dedication, they’ve not only strengthened our board and operations but have directly impacted the lives of thousands of students. It’s an honor to recognize their contributions and welcome them into our Leadership Circle.”
CIS of Eastern PA’s Leadership Circle acknowledges individuals who have provided transformational leadership and enduring support for CIS of Eastern PA’s mission. The inductees join the Leadership Circle, which includes State Secretary of Revenue Pat Browne, former board member Kim Capers, former board chairs Jack Gross and Charlie Marcon, and former Allentown School District Superintendent Diane Scott.
As CIS of Eastern PA’s former board chair, Bruckner provided essential leadership and guidance in fundraising and communications. Bruckner fostered strong connections with Muhlenberg College, resulting in numerous collaborations, including the college hosting CIS of Eastern PA’s first “Ready, Set, Graduate!” event. Additionally, he played an active role in strategic planning and supported the nonprofit by stepping up during financially uncertain times.
During her tenure as CIS of Eastern PA’s board chair, Larkin was instrumental in human resources oversight and strategy. She offered steady leadership with a focus on organizational guidance. In addition to her role as chair, Larkin actively served on the talent committee and was a key member of the search committee that hired the nonprofit’s current CEO, Tim Mulligan.
Sorrentino provided years of committed leadership as both board chair and board member. He was a board member during pivotal moments, including the formation of the CIS Success Academy. As one of the core board members who helped sustain CIS of Eastern PA through its most challenging times, he is a strong advocate for stability and long-term organizational growth.
The evening will also honor PPL Corporation, which has been a loyal partner of CIS of Eastern PA for 23 years, providing financial support totalling nearly $425,000 through the PPL Foundation.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, or to buy tickets, visit www.ciseasternpa.org/champions.
About Communities In Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania
Started in 1983, Communities In Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania is part of the Communities In Schools national network, which consists of independent 501(c)(3) organizations serving over 2 million students in 27 states and the District of Columbia. With caring adults serving over 41,000 students in 52 schools throughout Berks, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh, Monroe, and Northampton counties, the CIS mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. We believe in the incredible potential in every student and we work tirelessly to unlock it.
For more information, visit www.ciseasternpa.org.
Information provided to TVL by:
Amiee Goldy
