Holly Oxendale
Executive Director
holly.oxendale@tidesprogram.org

Holly joined Tides as executive director in 2018. Her background in management and fundraising initially drew her to the position, but her passion for helping others and meeting the needs of the community are why she ultimately landed at Tides.

“It means a lot to be able to help our community, and being part of an organization that’s supporting others is extremely important to me.”

Angie Kempf
Program Manager, School Programming
angie.kempf@tidesprogram.org

Angie started in January 2022 and is the newest member of the Tides staff. Her background in mental health case management and nonprofit work make her a valuable addition to the team, and her genuine desire to see Tides reach schools across the county is already driving Tides’ mission forward.

“I knew I only wanted a job that would be meaningful and a good fit, and I’ve already said a couple times that I love my job.”

Ashley Lopes 
Program Manager, Tides Nights
ashley.lopes@tidesprogram.org

Ashley is a Social Worker with experience in various family and community-based programs as well as serving as a teacher and director in the early childhood education space. Ashley comes to Tides with a passion for supporting families, connecting them to community resources, and expanding Tides' reach.

Evelyn Wald
Grief Support Specialist
evelyn.wald@tidesprogram.org

Evelyn has played an integral role at Tides since it started over 19 years ago. A self-proclaimed “kid in a grown up body”, Evelyn joyfully anticipates her time facilitating the 8 and under age group at Tides, as well as her other support roles as part of the organization. Ask anyone about their story with Tides and there’s no doubt Evelyn is part of the story!

“I can’t imagine my life without Tides in it… It’s just a pleasure being with the kids and being with the volunteers and honoring the courage that all of our families have to come and engage in their grief journey.”

Christen Bell
Development Writer
christen.bell@tidesprogram.org

Christen is a development writer with nearly a decade of experience working with nonprofit groups. She assists with identifying and pursuing grant opportunities, as well as general content and marketing for Tides. As a State College native, she is passionate about using her writing to help further the mission of Tides and support grieving families in Centre County.

“I love using my professional experience at an organization that serves the community I grew up in. It’s a privilege to be counted as part of the Tides family!”

Danielle Kaniecki 
Financial Manager
danielle.kaniecki@tidesprogram.org

Danielle started with Tides in November 2023. With a background in financial reporting and corporate accounting, Danielle is dedicated to supporting the organization's fiscal responsibility and ensuring accurate financial records.

“I am enthusiastic about applying my skills and expertise to contribute to Tides mission and create a positive impact in our community.”

Tides Board of Directors

Calvin Amato
Funeral Director-In-Training, Koch Funeral Home

Mike Berrena
Sales Manager, Joseph T. Berrena Mechanicals, Inc.

Karen Brown, MD
Palliative Care Physician, Mount Nittany Health

Leslie B. Finton, MSW, Founder and President
Oncology Patient Navigator, Cancer Program/Mount Nittany Health

Mandy Hartley, Secretary
Finance Manager, TransducerWorks, LLC

Eric Hurvitz
Realtor, RE/MAX Centre Realty

Stephanie Beaver
Director of Student Services, State College Area School District

Julia Rater
Attorney, McQuaide Blasko Law Offices

Ashleigh Shetler, Treasurer
Founding Partner, Schooner Executive Search

Matthew D. Shetler, CFA, CFP®, CPFA, Vice President 
Resident Director, Senior Vice President, Merrill Lynch