2022 NPRC alum makes a positive difference in the community
RIDGWAY – Famous scientist Albert Einstein once said, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” For 2022 Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC) alum Sherrie Falck, this could not be any truer.
A longtime resident of Ridgway, Falck has shown in recent years the power of pivoting and persevering in life. Whether the pivots be in her career, educational journey, or personal life, she's taken major strides to continue a path worth celebrating. For over 27 years, Falck worked in Elk County in manufacturing. As many in production understand, it's not always the easiest and most glamorous way to make a living. But everyone can appreciate working hard to provide for their family and self. In her first career, that's exactly what she did.
That was until 2019, when she decided that changing industries was something that would leave her feeling more fulfilled. As she explains it, what she's doing in her career as an advocate for Citizens Against Physical, Sexual, and Emotional Abuse Inc. (CAPSEA) is more than just a job. It is truly a way of life. Through her work, which spans over three years with CAPSEA, Falck is one of several members of the team that work tirelessly to change lives. However, the pivot in her career was not as simple as jumping from one industry to another.
Falck enrolled at Northern Pennsylvania Regional College and successfully earned an Associate of Arts degree in Social Science, building a solid base in social work. “I really wanted to love what I did in my life and work,” she noted. “Helping others and making a difference in my life was very important to me.”
Falck started her journey as a college student in 2019. Being her first time in college and in a traditional classroom since high school, this new chapter felt both intimidating and unfamiliar to her. There were many feelings all at once. But even with the feelings of being scared and not having confidence at the onset, she felt empowered. It did not take Falck much time to feel a sense of belonging at the school because of the welcoming community of instructors, peers, and professionals the institution introduced her to.
A significant event that changed everything was Director Ben Blood's three-hour, round-trip drive to help Falck learn computer skills. “NPRC really goes above and beyond to support their students,” she said. “If there is a way to support someone, the College explores it if it can help to make a difference.”
Even with the disruption of COVID-19, being a parent, and being a working professional, Falck graduated from NPRC in May 2022. She did so while being on the institution's Dean's List multiple times, graduating with honors, and being awarded the Mcgrady Family Scholarship by the Elk County Community Foundation. Falck capped her time with the College by giving opening remarks at NPRC'S first in-person Commencement ceremony. “Those moments I look back on and remind myself just how proud I've made myself,” shared an emotional Falck. “I keep my graduation pin on my desk to remind myself that I did it and to keep going. Earning the scholarship and having the chance to speak at commencement both make me feel honored.”
From 2020 to 2022, Falck worked full-time for CAPSEA and used her NPRC knowledge to develop her professional skills and certifications.
After nearly four years, she has become a crucial part of CAPSEA. She has established community partnerships, hosted new events and programs, and helped organize A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) art counseling programming and Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR) Therapy initiatives. Falck noticed the difference AWBW made in her life and set out to discover more about this type of counseling. A Window Between Worlds is an organization that empowers individuals and communities affected by violence and trauma through healing arts programs. They offer in-person and virtual opportunities and partner with organizations like CAPSEA to offer courses to a larger scale of individuals in-person.
“AWBW has helped me so much in my life,” said Falck. “I have found more ways to enjoy life and it's helped me strengthen the relationship I have with my kids and grandbaby. It's fulfilling to me I can serve CAPSEA in this way and help break down barriers many are facing.”
CAPSEA Executive Director Billie Jo Weyant has seen incredible growth both personally and professionally from Falck. Weyant shared, “Sherrie's journey embodies the resilience and strength we see in survivors every day. Her courage in overcoming personal challenges and emerging as a beacon of hope is truly inspiring. At CAPSEA, we're not just a local nonprofit; we're a family. Sherrie's pursuit of higher education and her dedication to forging a new path despite the hurdles she faced is a testament to her incredible spirit. We are immensely proud of her accomplishments and grateful to have her on the CAPSEA team. Sherrie's story is a powerful reminder that, with unwavering support and determination, survivors can not only rebuild their lives but also become catalysts for positive change in our community.”
Over the last several years, Sherrie Falck has been tested. But through hardship came triumph and a chance at a second career that brings increased meaning to her life. Mentors and colleagues from NPRC and CAPSEA, like Ben Blood, Billie Jo Weyant, Denise Michalowski, and Tiffany Palmer, have guided her to a new stage in her career and life.
“I feel like I'm just getting started. I have a lot of ideas on how both myself and CAPSEA can continue making a positive impact. CAPSEA and NPRC have helped me find confidence in myself and I'm excited for myself, CAPSEA, and NPRC to keep growing. I love what I do and those who have made everything possible for me,” she said.