TESU Foundation Appoints Two New Members to Board of Directors

The Thomas Edison State University (TESU) Foundation has appointed two accomplished leaders to its Board of Directors, further strengthening the Foundation's commitment to advancing the University's mission through strategic partnerships.

Joining the Foundation Board are Christina Allen, DNP, associate vice president of Clinical Practice and Academics at Capital Health, and Arnold E. Harrison III, vice president of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. Their appointments were approved during the Foundation Board's June meeting, continuing the Foundation's valued board representation from two longstanding TESU partners, Capital Health and the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. Allen and Harrison bring additional expertise in healthcare, workforce development and education to support the University's strategic priorities.

"Christina and Arnold are exceptional leaders whose experience and commitment to education and workforce development align closely with the mission of Thomas Edison State University," said Mary Heagley, vice president for Advancement at TESU and executive vice president of the TESU Foundation. "Their diverse perspectives and deep connections to the communities we serve will be invaluable as the Foundation advances initiatives that support educational opportunity for working professionals."

Allen oversees the educational infrastructure at Capital Health, including its graduate medical education and medical residency programs, Capital Health's School of Nursing, Capital Health School of Radiologic Technology, Clinical Education department and a variety of career training academies and workforce development programs. She also manages Capital Health's academic affiliations with colleges and universities.

Since joining Capital Health in 2014 as a clinical nurse specialist in Telemetry and Critical Care, Allen has held several leadership positions within Clinical Education and Educational Operations before assuming her current role. She brings extensive expertise in nursing, healthcare leadership and healthcare education, along with a strong understanding of TESU’s mission and innovative educational model.

Allen earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Drexel University and master's and bachelor's degrees in nursing as an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, as well as a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware. She has received numerous honors, including the Capital Health Medical Staff Award for Academic Excellence, a Nursing Excellence Award and a DAISY Nursing Award.

Harrison serves as vice president of Local Union 255 of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and has been a member of the union for more than 25 years. Before being elected vice president, he served four years as treasurer of Local Union 255.

In addition, Harrison serves as senior council representative for the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, overseeing In-House Casino and Millwork Carpenters. His leadership experience also includes two terms on the Southampton Township Board of Education, and he is currently serving a second term on the Southampton Township Committee.

Harrison brings valuable experience in the skilled trades, workforce development and labor communities, strengthening the Foundation Board's connection to industries that rely on highly skilled, career-focused professionals.

To learn more about the TESU Foundation and the strategic initiatives that support TESU students, visit tesu.edu/advancement.