Lock Haven University Recognizes COVID Heroes

LOCK HAVEN — The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in so many ways and has forced us to alter our way of life. We have had to change how we work, shop, exercise and even communicate with others. Through all of the challenges, it also has brought out the best in many and has helped us recognize these “heroes” for the important work they are doing every day to help us all stay healthy and safe.

Lock Haven University is proud to have many of their own COVID Heroes – alumni and staff who have stepped up during this time to help others. A few of these heroes were recognized during a recent LHU Council of Trustees Zoom meeting, introduced by Dr. Robert Pignatello, LHU president.

Danielle Beecher, a 2014 alumna, is as a registered nurse in the emergency department at St. Luke’s Hospital in Allentown. “Although I cannot see my patients’ smiles anymore, nor can they see mine through all of the masks, I want them to just feel they are not alone in this fight, and they, too, can make it through this tough time,” Beecher said.

Jill Murray, a 2015 alumna, is a registered nurse on the cardiothoracic unit at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in West Philadelphia. “I got into nursing because it was a gut feeling – no one in my life was in healthcare. I learned I could use my knowledge and abilities to change someone’s life for the better and be there for people when they are at their most vulnerable,” Murray said.

Missy Roche, a 2008 psychology alumna, is the owner of a bag and clothing business called Hazel Goods. When COVID-19 hit, Roche decided to shift her focus to helping healthcare and frontline workers by making masks. She has made and donated more than 900 masks to hospitals all across the country.

Sherri Brooks, administrative secretary to the president and vice presidents at LHU, has been helping by utilizing her sewing skills to make face coverings for the students and staff at LHU. Brooks is fulfilling an initial order of 175 masks by working in the costume shop in the Sloan Fine Arts Building on campus. 

For more information on Lock Haven University, visit www.lockhaven.edu, email admissions@lockhaven.edu, or call 570-484-2011.