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Innovation Coach Brings ‘Guidance, Facilitation and Resource’ to Good Shepherd
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Mark McAnallen joins Good Shepherd as our Innovation Coach, tasked with overseeing and expanding the Good Shepherd Innovation Grants program — a vital initiative encouraging associates to bring their creative ideas to life.
With a focus on guiding colleagues from an initial idea to full-scale project launches, McAnallen ensures that every innovation aligns with Good Shepherd’s mission and drives forward the quality of patient care.
“I see my role primarily as one of guidance, facilitation and resource,” McAnallen said. “I work with teams to ensure they have the right support and resources to advance their ideas and meet key milestones.”
McAnallen brings an impressive, decade-long career as a reviewer and advisor for new entrepreneurs through the National Science Foundation’s Innovation Corps, the University of Pennsylvania’s I-Corps, Ben Franklin Tech Ventures and as an independent consultant.
“I think innovation can come from anyone, anywhere within the Good Shepherd network, so I’m excited to see how we can create and foster an environment of creativity and collaboration.”
Mark McAnallen
His passion for improving patient care is personal.
“I grew up outside of the U.S., where rehabilitation medicine is many decades behind,” McAnallen said. “I identify with Good Shepherd’s mission to enhance the well-being of our community members who live with complex physical and cognitive rehabilitation needs.”
One of McAnallen’s favorite aspects of Good Shepherd so far? The people.
“There is a strong sense of mission and hospitality here, and I’m excited to work alongside such dedicated individuals,” he said.
Outside of his work at Good Shepherd, McAnallen serves on the board of Paws & Affection, a nonprofit that raises and places service dogs with people with disabilities. He is also an adventurous eater, having sampled kangaroo kebabs in the Australian Outback, yak steak in Tibet and even a zebra burger in Namibia.
“I think innovation can come from anyone, anywhere within the Good Shepherd network, so I’m excited to see how we can create and foster an environment of creativity and collaboration.”
Learn more about the Good Shepherd Innovation Grants program.
This story appears in the Fall 2024 issue of Sweet Charity, a Good Shepherd publication.