Bio
Leona is is the Associate Director of Education at the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania. She provides oversight for the Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program and the Applied Positive Psychology (APOP) undergraduate certificate, while serving as coordinating instructor for two MAPP courses.
Leona received the 2021 College of Liberal and Professional Studies Award for Distinguished Teaching in Graduate Programs at Penn, as well as UPCEA's 2021 Excellence in Teaching Award for the Mid-Atlantic Region. She serves on the Council of Advisors of the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA) and was the 2023 recipient of the Association's Positive Catalyst Award.
She serves as a scientific advisor for Trellus Health, an organization building resilience among individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, and sits on the board of Shining Light, which leverages positive psychology to build well-being among incarcerated individuals. Previously, she served as a coach and consultant for national healthcare performance improvement initiatives, focusing on reducing preventable infections and enhancing patient safety in acute care settings. Her work also encompassed engaging healthcare organizations in community health efforts and managing comprehensive employee wellness programs to promote workplace well-being.
Leona is currently pursuing a doctorate in education at Penn's Graduate School of Education. She enjoys cycling, running, serving as a triathlon sherpa, spending time with family, and cheering on her favorite collegiate sports teams—LaSalle women's triathlon and Alvernia women's ice hockey. She lives in the Lancaster, PA area with her husband Josh and their daughter Sophie.
