York College Leaders Recognized Among Region’s Rising Influencers
Two members of York College of Pennsylvania’s leadership team have been named to prestigious recognition lists, honoring their professional achievements and transformative impact on the College and the broader region.
Jeff Vermeulen, Chief of Staff and Vice President of Community Engagement at York College of Pennsylvania, has been named to City & State Pennsylvania’s “40 Pennsylvanians in their 40s” list, which recognizes leaders making a meaningful impact in government, advocacy, business, and beyond. He will be featured in a special print issue on September 29 and honored at a reception in Harrisburg on September 30.
At York College, Vermeulen serves as a senior advisor to President Thomas Burns, providing guidance on key initiatives and leading the College’s government relations efforts. He also manages a variety of presidential projects, including advancing institutional partnerships such as the Huber Foundation. In addition, he oversees Knowledge Park, the J.D. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship, and the Gunter-Smith Center for Community Engagement. Beyond campus, Vermeulen represents the College as an ambassador on nonprofit boards including the York County Economic Alliance, York Catholic High School, and the Pennsylvania Economy League. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing Knowledge Park—a revitalization project expected to generate $64 million in regional economic value, create new employment pathways, and deliver high-impact learning opportunities for students.
“I’m honored to be included among this year’s City & State ‘40 Pennsylvanians in their 40s’ honorees,” said Vermeulen. “This recognition reflects the collaborative work happening at York College to connect our students and faculty with the region’s public officials, business community, and nonprofit organizations. We’re building partnerships that drive economic growth and create meaningful opportunities for students to learn, innovate, and lead.”
Carly Legg Wood, Executive Director of the Center for Community Engagement (CCE), has been named to the Central Penn Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” list, which honors emerging leaders across Central Pennsylvania who are not only excelling professionally but also giving back in meaningful ways. Wood will be recognized at an awards ceremony on October 27.
Since joining York College, Wood has quickly established herself as a dynamic leader dedicated to strengthening the College’s bond with the York community. Under her leadership, the CCE has expanded its work in connecting students and faculty with local organizations, fostering collaborations that enhance the quality of life in York County.
She has championed programs that empower historically underrepresented populations, encouraged civic engagement among students, and created opportunities for the community to access the College’s academic resources. Through initiatives that promote social justice, leadership development, and research-driven problem solving, Wood is helping York College live out its mission of preparing students to lead lives of purpose while building a stronger, more equitable community.
“It is a privilege to be named among the Central Penn Business Journal’s ‘Forty Under 40,’” said Wood. “At the Center for Community Engagement, our work is about building stronger connections between York College and our community, and I’ve been inspired by the incredible students, colleagues, and community leaders I get to work alongside every day. This recognition affirms the importance of those collaborations in creating a more engaged, equitable, and thriving York.”
“These recognitions highlight the extraordinary leadership and dedication that Jeff and Carly bring to York College and to the broader community every day,” said York College President Dr. Thomas Burns. “Their work not only benefits our students but also creates opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration throughout the region. We are proud to see their impact recognized on such distinguished platforms.”
York College extends its heartfelt congratulations to Jeff and Carly on these well-deserved honors. Their vision, energy, and commitment embody the spirit of York College and serve as an inspiration to students, colleagues, and community partners alike.
