Bill Ruark is a respected regional business leader whose visionary entrepreneurship has significantly shaped Wyoming and Lackawanna Counties. As owner of Meshoppen Stone—a thriving enterprise shipping Pennsylvania bluestone nationwide—he has built a reputation for strategic business acumen and strong community investment.

After the closure of Tyler Memorial Hospital left Wyoming County without local healthcare services, Bill stepped in to help fill the void. Through his leadership and family partnership, he played a key role in acquiring the building and establishing the Wyoming County Healthcare Center—a nonprofit initiative dedicated to restoring access to care for local residents.

​

Known for his generous spirit and strong regional ties, Bill brings decades of leadership experience to WCHC. His efforts to preserve and repurpose the former hospital building for the benefit of the community reflect his deep commitment to sustainable, locally driven solutions. Whether supporting small businesses, engaging with regional leaders, or guiding WCHC’s growth, Bill is focused on ensuring that essential services remain accessible to those who call Wyoming County home.

​

As Board President, Bill plays a pivotal role in guiding WCHC’s strategic direction, ensuring the organization advances its mission to enhance healthcare access, workforce development, and economic opportunity for residents of Wyoming County.

Ryan Ruark is a multifaceted entrepreneur and the driving force behind a diverse portfolio of successful businesses in Wyoming County. From an early age, he immersed himself in the family business, gaining invaluable experience in leadership, resilience, and the importance of strong community and family ties.

​

Known for his integrity, kindness, and hands-on approach, Ryan has built a reputation as a thoughtful and dynamic leader. He brings strategic insight to every endeavor—whether managing day-to-day operations, cultivating business partnerships, or advancing philanthropic initiatives.

In addition to his business ventures, Ryan is deeply committed to giving back. He actively supports local charities, mentors young athletes, and participates in efforts that strengthen and uplift the community. His dedication to balancing professional excellence with compassion and service reflects the values at the heart of WCHC’s mission.

​

As Vice President of the Board of Directors, Ryan plays a vital role in guiding the organization’s strategic direction and ensuring its continued impact across the region.

Meet Lindsay Shalata, the Director of Development at Wyoming County Healthcare Center. A 2004 Elk Lake High School alumna, Ms. Shalata excelled in her studies at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies in 2008, with minors in Biology and Neuroscience, followed by a Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies in 2009. Prior to her current role, she practiced as a physician assistant at Dallas Family Practice, gaining extensive experience in managing conditions such as chronic kidney disease, neck pain and spine issues, and bronchitis.

​

As the Executive Director, Lindsay now leads our efforts to forge partnerships with other healthcare entities to enhance service delivery within the community. Her role involves strategic planning, fundraising, and community outreach to ensure the center not only meets but exceeds the healthcare needs of our region. Lindsay’s leadership is pivotal in driving initiatives that promote health education and access to care, underscoring her commitment to the well-being of every community member.

Debbie Johnson brings more than 30 years of experience in education and a deep commitment to community development to her role on the Board of Directors. A resident of Tunkhannock since 1985, she now serves as Program Developer for the Wyoming County Healthcare Center, where she leads strategic initiatives focused on health access, outreach, and regional partnerships.

​

Debbie’s background in public education has shaped her skills in planning, communication, and cross-sector collaboration. Her passion for lifelong learning and her hands-on approach to problem-solving inform her work advancing wellness-focused programs across the county. As both a board member and staff leader, Debbie plays a vital role in aligning WCHC’s mission with the evolving needs of the community.

Michael Mey serves as a key legal consultant for Wyoming County Healthcare Center, bringing his expert legal acumen in personal injury, insurance, and construction law from his partnership at the Scranton law firm of Mey & Sulla, LLP. Holding a B.A. from Wilkes University and a J.D. from Capital University, Mr. Mey is deeply integrated into the legal community through his memberships in the Luzerne County and Pennsylvania Bar Associations, the American Association for Justice, and the Pennsylvania Association for Justice. His specialized knowledge in areas such as auto accidents, construction law, and civil litigation is crucial in navigating the complex legal landscape that affects healthcare delivery. Michael’s role ensures the center adheres to the highest standards of compliance and legal practice, safeguarding our mission to provide exceptional healthcare services.

Elected in 2021 and sworn in as Wyoming County District Attorney in January 2022, Joe Peters leads the county’s criminal justice efforts with a commitment to fairness, public safety, and community well-being. His distinguished career spans local, state, and federal service, including his time as Executive Deputy Attorney General of Pennsylvania and Assistant Deputy Director at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.

​

Joe rose to national prominence as a federal prosecutor for his work dismantling organized crime in Philadelphia, earning the U.S. Department of Justice’s John Marshall Award—one of the department’s highest honors. His leadership on complex criminal investigations and policy initiatives has helped shape drug enforcement and prevention strategies across the country.

​

Locally, Joe brings that same energy to the communities of Wyoming County, where he actively engages in public education, youth outreach, and collaborative safety programs. Whether through school presentations, community forums, or support for local nonprofits, he remains focused on prevention, early intervention, and empowering residents with information and resources.

As a member of the WCHC Board of Directors, Joe contributes a legal and public health lens to the organization’s work. His experience in both enforcement and outreach enhances WCHC’s mission to promote access, safety, and wellness for all residents—particularly in underserved rural areas.

As Superintendent of Elk Lake School District and the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center (SCCTC), Bob Galella brings a strong background in educational leadership, workforce development, and student wellness to the WCHC Board of Directors. With oversight of both academic and vocational programming across a large rural region, Bob focuses on balancing innovation with resource stewardship to meet the needs of diverse learners and communities.

​

In his dual role as Title IX Coordinator, Bob has championed inclusive policies that promote safety, equity, and access for all students. His leadership at SCCTC connects young people with practical career pathways, aligning with WCHC’s goal of strengthening healthcare access and local workforce pipelines. Known for his thoughtful, steady leadership, Bob collaborates closely with educators, families, and community stakeholders to foster environments where students can thrive.

​

Bob’s perspective as an educator and administrator offers valuable insight into the social determinants of health and the importance of investing in both education and community well-being. His work supports WCHC’s broader mission to build healthier, more resilient rural communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Matt Shaffer brings extensive expertise in finance, strategic planning, and regional economic development to his role as a consultant to the Board of Directors at the Wyoming County Healthcare Center. A seasoned financial professional, Matt serves as Senior Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch, where he helps individuals and institutions navigate complex financial decisions and long-term planning.

​

As Immediate Past Chair of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce, Matt has long been a champion of business growth and community partnerships throughout the region. His leadership in both the private and nonprofit sectors positions him as a trusted advisor on matters of fiscal oversight, organizational sustainability, and collaborative development.

Matt’s guidance helps ensure that WCHC’s strategic direction is grounded in sound financial practice and aligned with the broader goal of improving healthcare access and wellness outcomes for Wyoming County residents.