CLEARFIELD: CenClear has announced Dr. Mary Tatum as its Acting Chief Executive Officer, bringing nearly two decades of experience within the organization to the role during a period of transition.
Dr. Tatum has served CenClear for 18 years, working across a wide range of programs that touch nearly every corner of the agency’s operations. Her career path includes roles as a Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS) worker, outpatient therapist, after-school site coordinator, CPS advisor, and most recently, Director of the Child Advocacy Center of Clearfield County — a position she has held for the past decade.
In that role, Dr. Tatum helped coordinate investigations involving allegations of child abuse, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to protect vulnerable children and support families. That experience, CenClear officials say, gives her a deep, firsthand understanding of both the challenges facing the community and the critical services the agency provides.
Dr. Tatum emphasized that CenClear remains stable and secure, and said her immediate priorities include maintaining continuity of care for clients while also supporting the staff who deliver services every day. She also acknowledged the learning curve that comes with stepping into a new leadership role, asking for patience and grace as she works to connect with employees across the organization.
“This is about supporting the people we serve and the people who serve them,” Dr. Tatum shared, underscoring her commitment to collaboration and transparency.
Shortly after assuming the role, Dr. Tatum joined CenClear leadership in welcoming Elliot Copeland, North Central Pennsylvania regional representative for John Fetterman. The group, which included Jake Ross, CenClear’s Senior Marketing and Engagement Officer, and Todd Trinidad from the Grants Department, toured the Philipsburg Campus and met with staff from multiple divisions.
The visit included stops at Behavioral Health services, fleet operations led by Andy Turner, and the Head Start program, where Senior Preschool Officer Amy Wible guided the group through classroom spaces and programming. CenClear noted that the visit sparked thoughtful discussion about the scope of services provided across both of the agency’s major divisions and the ongoing needs of the region.
Dr. Tatum closed her message to staff and community members with a reminder rooted in shared purpose:
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
As CenClear moves forward under Dr. Tatum’s leadership, the organization says its focus remains unchanged: delivering essential services, supporting families, and strengthening the communities it serves throughout Clearfield County and beyond.
