05/25/2026
Care Starts Here: Meet Savitoz Chilana
We are proud to spotlight Savitoz (Savi) Chilana, an AHEC Scholar and Class President at Marywood University’s Physician Assistant program. With a background in EMS and a passion for community health, Savi is a prime example of how the AHEC Scholars Program integrates clinical excellence with community advocacy.
From coordinating Mental Health First Aid Training to serving on the board for the inaugural Remote Area Medical (RAM) chapter, Savi is dedicated to uncovering and sharing the "life-changing resources" available in Northeast Pennsylvania.
💬 In his words:
“My first impression of AHEC was simple: why wouldn’t everyone want to be a part of this? For me, AHEC was a unique opportunity to show the community the vital role a Physician Assistant plays. I remember asking Leslie during one of our first meetings, “How can I become more involved?” I’ve always preferred staying busy; in medicine, there is always a way to keep learning and improving.
As the Class President at Marywood, I’ve acted as a liaison between AHEC, our professors, and the student body to coordinate events like Mental Health First Aid Training. I also serve on the board for Marywood’s inaugural Remote Area Medical (RAM) chapter. AHEC has opened my eyes to the incredible resources available in our communities—resources that are life-changing but often go unnoticed. I believe it’s our responsibility to keep spreading that knowledge and giving back to those who need a little extra support.
AHEC has truly shaped me into a better provider. With my background in EMS, I fell in love with community medicine early on. Seeing patients navigate complex struggles isn't new to me, but I’ve always searched for more impactful ways to give back. AHEC was that answer. My family values are rooted in service and gratitude, and both AHEC and Marywood have become a second family to me—one I intend to serve for years to come.
NEPA wasn’t always home for me. Growing up in Orange County, NY, and spending nearly six years in State College, PA, I spent a lot of time driving past NEPA without a second thought. It wasn't until I arrived at Marywood that I truly found the community here. Seeing how people come together for local events is inspiring, and it’s what keeps me rooted in Pennsylvania. This region is where I have grown the most, and it’s where I intend to continue growing into the provider I aspire to be.”
Thank you, Savi, for your incredible leadership as MUPA Class President and your dedication to the AHEC Scholars Program. We are so grateful for your passion and the lasting impact you are making in our community!
💡 Savi reminded us that life-changing resources often go unnoticed but you can make sure they are always funded. Your support during NEPA Gives directly invests in the community rotations and interprofessional training that prepare our regional health workforce to serve where it's needed most.
🗓️ Mark your calendars for June 4–5 to help us keep care local!
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