Each year, Penn State Schuylkill recognizes a select group of alumni, and sometimes friends, for their contributions to the campus, professional achievements, and impact on the greater Penn State community and society at large. This year, Penn State Schuylkill has five award recipients in categories of Outstanding Alumni, Outstanding Young Alumni, the Pride and Spirit Award, and Alumni Impact Award.
Nominations for next year's Alumni Awards will begin on July 1, 2025 and closes September 30, 2025. If you know a Penn Stater or friend of the campus whose commitment to the University and/or community deserves recognition, please consider filling out a submission form.
Outstanding Alumni
The Outstanding Alumni Award acknowledges the achievements of Penn State Schuylkill alumni for their continued contributions to Penn State as well as their impact within their communities. This year, Kahalia Solano-Johnson, Esq., '09, received the Outstanding Alumni Award.
Born and raised in New York City, Kahalia Solano-Johnson’s path reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence, resilience, and service. A proud Brooklyn, NY high school graduate of Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School, she began her collegiate journey at Penn State Schuylkill—where she served as a fashion columnist for the campus newspaper—before transferring to Penn State’s University Park campus, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Kahalia’s early career took shape in New York’s dynamic media, fashion, and beauty industries, with roles at NBC, BET, and COTY. These experiences ignited her passion for equity and representation, inspiring her to earn a Diversity & Inclusion Certificate from Yale University’s School of Management.
Driven to expand her impact, Kahalia pursued law, graduating magna cum laude at the top of her class from Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law. She further distinguished herself by earning a Master of Laws in Entertainment & Sports Law from the University of Miami School of Law.
Her legal career spans federal service and high-profile work in sports and entertainment. Kahalia has served U.S. diplomats as an attorney for a federal agency in Washington, D.C., contributed to the legal team at BeatStars, a Sony Music partner, and advised the WNBA’s labor union on critical labor and employment matters. Her leadership in sports law led to her being featured in Essence Magazine, celebrating women shaping the sports industry.
Today, Kahalia leads the Solano Law Firm, representing clients across diverse sectors with a focus on empowerment, integrity, and innovation. She remains grounded in humility and service, proudly teaching as an Adjunct Professor for Penn State University Park’s School of Labor and Employment Relations.
A global traveler, Kahalia finds inspiration in the cultures of London, Paris, and the Caribbean. She resides in the Miami area with her husband and their daughter, Summer Rae.
Outstanding Young Alumni
The Outstanding Young Alumni Award acknowledges the achievements of Penn State Schuylkill alumni, under the age of 35, for their contributions to Penn State as well as their impact within their communities. This year, Dr. Stephen Shalamanda, '20, received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award.
Stephen J. Shalamanda, OD is an accomplished optometrist and emerging leader in eye care, recognized for clinical excellence, innovation, and service to his community. A graduate of The Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, Dr. Shalamanda earned his Doctor of Optometry degree and received the Citation for Clinical Excellence in Low Vision Rehabilitation, reflecting both his academic achievement and patient-centered approach. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from The Pennsylvania State University, where he completed all four years of study at the Schuylkill campus. Born and raised in Ashland, Pennsylvania, Dr. Shalamanda developed an early appreciation for hard work, integrity, and service—values that would later define both his professional path and his dedication to patient care. He credits his passion for optometry to the strong work ethic instilled in him from a young age by his family and community. The son of Rita and Stephen Shalamanda, Dr. Shalamanda proudly honors his family’s coal-mining heritage, a legacy rooted in perseverance, humility, and commitment to others. These formative influences have shaped his unwavering devotion to excellence, compassion, and service throughout his career to this point.
During his time at Penn State Schuylkill, Dr. Shalamanda demonstrated remarkable campus involvement and leadership. He actively participated in the Peer Mentoring Program, Beta Beta Beta, The Blue and White Society, and THON—where he notably danced for 46 hours without sleeping or sitting in THON 2019. Beyond his participation, he played a pivotal role in founding the Health Care Professionals Club, helping to create a lasting platform for students pursuing careers in healthcare. He humbly credits much of his success to the exceptional faculty, staff, and advisors whose guidance and support defined his collegiate journey.
Dr. Shalamanda currently practices at Wyomissing Optometric Center, providing comprehensive primary eye care with a strong emphasis on ocular disease and low vision rehabilitation. Dr. Shalamanda stands at the forefront of refractive innovation as one of a rapidly growing yet highly select group—currently only ~40 optometrists nationwide—certified as VisionLOCK Adjusters for the RxSight Light Adjustable Lens. This rare distinction affords his patients access to one of the most advanced and meticulously personalized post-cataract vision technologies available, setting a new benchmark for precision, visual excellence, and independence from eyeglasses. His clinical expertise seamlessly integrates advanced technology with compassionate, individualized care to optimize visual outcomes.
His training includes diverse, rigorous externships across Pennsylvania, including serving United States Veterans at the Lebanon VA Medical Center, collaborating with multidisciplinary low vision teams, and training at the William Feinbloom Rehabilitation Center, one of the nation’s leading low vision facilities. Dr. Shalamanda is nationally board certified, licensed in Pennsylvania for therapeutic and glaucoma care, and holds optometric privileges at Penn State St. Joseph Medical Center, where he provides consultative care for emergent and inpatient ocular disease. His scholarly contributions include several publications and national poster presentations on complex monocular and retinal disease management.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Shalamanda is a community advocate for individuals who are visually impaired and serves as a Board Member of the Vision Resource Center of Berks County. He is also an active member of the Berks County Optometric Association and the Pennsylvania Optometric Association. Aside from his passion for optometry, he continues to mentor aspiring health professionals on campus and throughout Schuylkill County, helping guide the next generation of practitioners.
Known for his tireless work ethic and genuine passion for improving the lives of his patients, Dr. Shalamanda approaches every challenge with dedication, integrity, and a commitment to excellence—qualities that define both his professional and personal life.
Pride and Spirit Award
The Pride and Spirit Award is earned by a person whose contribution to the success of Penn State Schuylkill campus is significant and meaningful. This year, Samantha Chivinski, '12 and Seth Hubler, '23, received the Pride and Spirit Award.
Samantha M. Chivinski serves as Executive Vice President of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce. She previously advanced through roles in membership and events before stepping into her current position. Samantha is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University’s College of Communications, specializing in public relations. In July 2025, she graduated from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management.
In November 2025, she was honored nationally as one of ACCE’s 40 Under 40, recognizing emerging chamber leaders across the country. She has played an essential role in guiding the Schuylkill Chamber to earn the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals’ Chamber of the Year award in 2022, 2024, and 2025.
Samantha also serves on the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP) and as the organization’s Communications Chair. Locally, she serves as a board member for Avenues and Explore Schuylkill. Those roles support both community-focused and statewide initiatives.
Beyond her chamber work, Samantha is the co-owner of a small business and the co-founder of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating and creating awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. She resides in Pottsville, PA, with her husband, daughter, and their puppy.
Seth J. Hubler serves as the Communications Director for the Office of State Senator David G. Argall, representing Pennsylvania’s 29th Senatorial District, which includes Schuylkill, Carbon, and southern Luzerne counties. In this role, he leads all internal and external communications for the Senator’s office, including but not limited to digital outreach, media relations, comprehensive communication strategies, social media content, monthly columns, and public engagement initiatives. He manages constituent communications and maintains a detailed database tracking legislative issues and casework. Seth also prepares and distributes weekly and monthly newsletters to more than 20,000 constituents, providing timely updates on legislation, state programs, and district priorities.
In addition to his communications work, Seth represents Senator Argall at public events, community board meetings, and constituent gatherings throughout the district. He oversees special projects, conducts data analysis, and assists with event planning to support both legislative and community-focused goals. He also works to strengthen partnerships with state agencies, local organizations, and community stakeholders to broaden outreach efforts and enhance public trust.
Outside of his role in state government, Seth remains deeply involved in several professional and community endeavors across our region. He operates his own small lawn care business, assists with the administration of his family business, and works part-time in retail management. He also brings significant experience in political campaign management on the state and local levels, which he continues to apply in various capacities.
A committed community volunteer, Seth is an Eagle Scout and serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 600 in Llewellyn. He is active with the Branch Township Booster Club and serves on multiple community boards, including as Chair of the Schuylkill Connects Executive Board of Directors. He also serves on the Hawk Mountain Council Advisory Board, the Black Rock District Core of Commissioners, the Schuylkill Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance Board of Directors, the Schuylkill AmeriCorps Task Force, and the Schuylkill County Youth Summit Advisory Board. Additionally, he participates in the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and is a member of its HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Excel) Committee.
Seth graduated from Minersville Area Junior/Senior High School in 2019 and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management & Marketing with a minor in Political Science from Penn State Schuylkill in 2023. On campus, he served as Student Body President, and was a member of the Honors Society, among other clubs and organizations. He went on to complete his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Alvernia University in 2024.
Seth, the son of Jeff and JoAnn Hubler and brother of Devin Hubler, is a lifelong resident of Branch Township and a proud native of Schuylkill County. In his free time, Seth enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying the outdoors.
Seth’s volunteerism and advocacy on behalf of Penn State Schuylkill run deep. He regularly returns to campus to connect with students, speak in classes, meet with student organizations, and participate in campus events.
Seth also played a significant role in the effort to save Penn State Schuylkill from closure, contributing both personally and professionally. His work included extensive grassroots outreach with nearly one hundred community partners, coordinated social media campaigns, direct engagement with university leadership and the Board of Trustees, and—most notably—the organization of a legislative roundtable highlighting the campus’s critical role in the Greater Schuylkill County region.
While the campus has since been preserved and committed to continued investment, Seth’s advocacy has not ended. He recently helped organize a follow-up legislative roundtable focused on planning for the campus’s long-term success and future growth. Discussions continue to ensure that Schuylkill campus stays in our community for years to come.
Alumni Impact Award
The Alumni Impact Award is presented to a Penn State alumnus who has made significant professional contributions to Penn State Schuylkill and has left a lasting, positive impact on the campus. This award is open to all Penn State alumni, not exclusively those who graduated from the Schuylkill campus, recognizing individuals whose dedication and service enhance the university's mission and community. Honorees exemplify the Penn State spirit through their commitment, achievements, and ongoing support, enriching the campus culture and inspiring current and future students. This year, Kate Zimmerman, '12, received the Alumni Impact Award.
Born and raised in Pottsville, Kate Zimmerman is a proud Penn State alumna whose career has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping students discover and achieve their goals. She graduated from Pottsville Area High School in 2008 and earned her Bachelor of Music Education from Penn State in 2012, where she was a member of the Blue Band. These formative experiences instilled in her the values of community, collaboration, and leadership - lessons that continue to guide her professional journey.
Following her undergraduate degree, Kate earned a Master of Music Education at the University of the Arts and later completed her Educational Leadership Certification at Penn State Harrisburg. In January, Kate successfully defended her doctoral dissertation, which examined professional identity development among emerging adults. She will graduate from Penn State in May with a doctorate in Lifelong Learning and Adult Education.
Kate began her professional career as a music educator in the Pottsville Area School District, where she taught and mentored students for eight years. In 2020, she transitioned into the role of Director of Cooperative Education at Penn State Schuylkill. Here she discovered her true passion: helping students identify their strengths, explore interests, and connect their academic experiences to meaningful career paths.
Through this role, Kate launched Penn State Schuylkill Co-Op in Fall 2020. In five years, the program grew to include over 180 student participants and more than 100 employer partners, providing students with hands-on experience, professional skills, and meaningful connections that prepare them for success in the workforce. She attributes much of the program’s success to the amazing team at Penn State Schuylkill and the supportive and engaged employers and alumni who embraced the opportunity to provide students with meaningful work experiences, mentorship, and professional connections.
In addition to program leadership, Kate developed and taught courses in career readiness, internships, professional skills, and cultural intelligence, and presented at national conferences on cooperative education, employer engagement, and inclusive leadership. Her work emphasizes mentorship, relationship-building, and helping students translate their experiences into tangible career outcomes.
Currently, Kate serves as the Director of Cooperative Education and Career Services at Bucks County Community College where she continues to focus on building sustainable career programming and employer relationships. Beyond her professional work, she serves on multiple nonprofit boards, offers career coaching and consulting, and is active in the music and arts community.
Grateful for the opportunities Penn State has given her, Kate’s career reflects her commitment to student success, community engagement, and the transformative power of education.