Commissioners

Chairman's Message

Dear Colleagues,

It is my privilege to share with you a true achievement for rural Pennsylvania - a milestone that marks our collective commitment to revitalizing and sustaining the Commonwealth's rural communities.

In June 2024, bipartisan legislation co-authored by Center for Rural Pennsylvania Board of Directors Chairman, Senator Gene Yaw, and Vice Chairman, Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, was signed into law as Act 21 of 2024 by Governor Josh Shapiro. Importantly, Act 21 received support from Center Board members Senator Judy Schwank and Representative Dan Moul. This legislation established the Rural Population Revitalization Commission. The Commission seeks to address challenges facing our rural areas and ensuring their prosperity for generations to come.

The establishment of this Commission signifies a unified effort to connect policymakers, local officials, industry leaders, and community stakeholders. Together, we will examine and recommend policy solutions to attract and retain residents in rural Pennsylvania. This Commission represents a commitment to understanding and responding to the unique needs of rural Pennsylvania. As highlighted in the Center's October 2023 population projection report, our rural communities face projected declines that require urgent attention. Through the Commission, we will develop innovative solutions and recommend best practices in key areas such as education, health care, housing, workforce development, and social services.

I am honored and humbled to serve as the inaugural Chairman of the Rural Population Revitalization Commission, working alongside dedicated members of the Commission who bring diverse expertise and perspectives in service to the Commonwealth. In closing, I extend my gratitude to all who have contributed to this critical and transformative initiative.

Sincerely,
Kyle C. Kopko, Ph.D., J.D.
Chairman, Rural Population Revitalization Commission
Executive Director, Center for Rural Pennsylvania

Dr. Kyle C. Kopko
Chairman, Rural Population Revitalization Commission
Executive Director, Center for Rural Pennsylvania
Ms. Lisa Davis
Director, Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health
Professor, The Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Karen Riley
State System of Higher Education Representative
President, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Mr. Mark Critz
Western Regional Director, PA Dept. of Agriculture
Executive Director, Pennsylvania Rural Development Council
Mr. Jordan Grady
Governor's Appointee
President, Butler County Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Drew Popish
Governor's Appointee
Northeast Regional Director, Office of Governor Shapiro
Commissioner Betsy McClure
County Commissioner, Greene County
Commissioner Albert "Chip" Abramovic
County Commissioner, Venango County
Mr. William desRosiers
PA Chamber of Business and Industry Representative
Manager of External Affairs, Coterra Energy
To Be Determined
Member of the Senate
To Be Determined
Member of the Senate
To Be Determined
Member of the House
To Be Determined
Member of the House
To Be Determined
PA School Boards Association
To Be Determined
Statewide Farm Organization Representative

Please check back for additional updates to Commissioners of the Rural Population Revitalization Commission in the coming months.