DeFurio, Russell serve as BC3 trustees
BUTLER TWP — The president and CEO of Butler Health System and the former interim vice president for academic affairs at Butler County Community College say they look forward to continuing BC3's mission as trustees.
Kenneth DeFurio, who has worked for Butler Health System since 1989, began a two-year term on Oct. 18.
Dr. Bruce Russell, who was BC3's interim chief academic officer from 2015 until his retirement in June, begins a six-year term Dec. 6.
DeFurio, 53, of Renfrew holds a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master of business administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh.
DeFurio is a board member of the Hospital and Health System Association of Pennsylvania and of the American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board.
Russell 67, of Connoquenessing Township replaces Sarah Peart-Forbes on the board. His term expires June 30, 2023. He holds a bachelor's degree in secondary education from Slippery Rock University, a master's degree in communication from Clarion University and a doctorate in education technology and instructional design from the University of Pittsburgh.
Russell was dean of SRU's College of Business, Information and Social Sciences from 2002 until his retirement in 2010.
Russell was the director of operations for the Regional Learning Alliance from 2005 to 2010 before becoming BC3's interim vice president for academic affairs.
The board of trustees is a policy-making body that provides direction and guidance to BC3's president and administration. The primary functions of the board include establishing basic policy, appointing the president and financial control of the institution.
Butler County commissioners appoint BC3 trustees to six-year terms.
DeFurio brings a multifaceted health-care expertise that will help to guide BC3's board in expanding its nursing program, said county Commissioner Kim Geyer, an ex officio member of BC3's board of trustees. Russell, she said, will bring great expertise with his knowledge and understanding of the accreditation process, pedagogy and curriculum opportunities for students.DeFurio and Russell join trustees chairman Ray Steffler of Valencia, an aide to state Sen. Scott E. Hutchinson, R-21st, Oil City; vice chairman Joseph Kubit, Montgomery, Crissman, Montgomery, Kubit, L.L.P.; secretary Glenn T. Miller, funeral director, Thompson-Miller Funeral Home; treasurer Scott McDowell, chief financial officer, Blair Strip Steel; Dr. William DiCuccio, medical director, Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; Jennifer Linn, The Linn Law Group; Gordon Marburger, dairy farmer; Bruce Mazzoni, Cranberry Township supervisor; Brian McCafferty, owner, Kenmac Rentals and Sales; Gail Paserba, president, International Quality Consultants; Carmine Scotece, retired Human Services director for Butler County; Nancy Staible, retired physician's assistant; Joseph Taylor, vice president and general manager, Armstrong Group of Companies; and Geyer.
