12/30/2025
, We’re excited to warmly welcome Mark D., our new Director of Risk Management at Clarion Psychiatric Center. Though new to the CPC family as of December 8, 2025, Mark brings a wealth of experience from his 11 years at Abraxas in Marienville. Starting fresh out of college as a life skills worker, he steadily advanced through the ranks to Supervisor, Manager, and ultimately served as Executive Director before joining the CPC family.
A native of Clarion County, Mark earned his degree from Penn West Clarion. He now lives in Shippenville with his wife Lara, their lively three-year-old son Ridge, and one-year-old daughter Hunter. The family is joyfully expecting their third child in May! Rounding out their household are two beloved cockapoos, Hampton and Belle.
Mark’s passion for the outdoors shines bright. Whether hunting deer or bear, fishing, hiking, biking, or playing sports with his family, he embraces an active lifestyle. Fun fact: Mark played college football and continues to maintain his fitness through weightlifting and running. His dream vacation? Planning a hunting trip out West or up to Canada.
His first job was as a farm hand at Zacherl’s Farm, where he learned the true meaning of hard work and punctuality by doing a little bit of everything.
Over the past year, Mark has deepened his leadership skills by reading John Maxwell books, practicing meditation, and staying calm during crises involving staff and patients. He’s honed his decision-making abilities and built a reputation for being levelheaded when pressure is high. Mark contributes to a positive work environment by approaching challenges as a problem solver, avoiding overthinking, and focusing on simple, effective solutions. He truly enjoys helping others, being a team player, and pitching in wherever needed.
Please join us in giving Mark a warm welcome to the CPC family! 💚
