The York County SPCA is thrilled to announce the appointment of three exceptional individuals to our Board of Directors: Dr. Emilie Lonardi, Katie Schwienteck, and David M. Davidson Jr. Each brings a wealth of professional experience, a deep passion for animal welfare, and a commitment to community service that aligns perfectly with our mission. We are proud to welcome them into our leadership family as we continue working to improve the lives of animals and people throughout York County.
Dr. Emilie Lonardi: A Lifelong Educator and Animal Advocate
Dr. Emilie Lonardi is a familiar name in the world of education, having spent more than 40 years as a leader in public schools. She served as Superintendent of Schools for both the West York Area and Downingtown Area School Districts and has taught at Penn State Harrisburg and York College for decades.
In addition to her extensive educational leadership, Em has served on numerous boards, including the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators (PASA) and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). After retiring, she turned her attention toward one of her lifelong passions—animal welfare—becoming an active YCSPCA volunteer and logging nearly 100 hours of service in 2024 alone.
Em recently fostered a senior dog from the YCSPCA, an experience that reaffirmed her dedication to our cause. She looks forward to opening her home to more foster dogs in the near future.
“I have spent my career serving students under my care, and now, the chance to shift my focus to animal care, another passion of mine, is exciting and will be extremely rewarding,” Em shared.
Katie Schwienteck: Communications Expert and Devoted Animal Lover
We are also pleased to welcome Katie Schwienteck, a dynamic communications professional with over 18 years of experience in higher education and community engagement. Katie currently serves as the Communications and Marketing Director for the Enrollment Management Division at York College of Pennsylvania and also leads her own consulting business, CommuniKate Solutions.
Katie’s expertise in strategic messaging, public relations, and organizational communication will be invaluable to our work. She and her husband share their home with their beloved dog, Clare, and she is excited to combine her love of animals with her desire to serve the community.
“I am thrilled to find a place that matches my love of animals with a desire to serve my community,” Katie said.
David M. Davidson Jr.: Finance Leader and Community Advocate
Rounding out our newest additions is David M. Davidson Jr., who brings over 50 years of experience in engineering and local governance to the YCSPCA Board. Dave served as CFO of C.S. Davidson, Inc. and has been deeply involved in a range of local organizations, including the Farm & Natural Lands Trust of York County and the York County Community Foundation. His expertise in finance and strategic planning makes him a valuable asset to our board as we look to the future of the YCSPCA. Dave has long admired the work of our organization and is passionate about supporting animal welfare initiatives.
“Animals need an advocate, and YCSPCA’s education and outreach are vital to that advocacy. Achieving a ‘no-kill’ designation is a key element in the YCSPCA’s operations. I hope I can help sustain these and other initiatives,” Dave said.
A Growing Team, A Stronger Mission
Sue DeStephano, Chair of the Nominating and Governance Committee, expressed her excitement about these new additions:
“Our York County SPCA board is filled with enthusiastic community leaders with valuable skills, experiences, ideas, and connections. They believe in the mission and are always eager to help. We are excited to have Katie Schwienteck, Em Lonardi, and Dave Davidson join this wonderful group and look forward to the contributions they will make.”
We are honored to welcome Em, Katie, and Dave to the York County SPCA Board of Directors. Their knowledge, dedication, and love for animals will strengthen our ability to serve the community and create a brighter future for the animals in our care.
Please join us in giving them a warm welcome!
