05/04/2026
Today, we celebrated the graduation of our Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) interns at the Di and Dallas Krapf Interfaith Chapel. This CPE unit reflected a strong partnership between Hershey Medical Center and the VA Medical Center, bringing together the two programs in shared formation and learning. We extend our sincere thanks to educator Joel Risser for contributing his educational expertise and leadership to this program.
We wish each of our chaplain graduates continued growth and fulfillment as they carry their gifts forward into the future of pastoral ministry.
Congratulations! We are proud of you!
04/11/2026
Looking to deepen your clinical expertise in a Level I Trauma Center environment?
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is now accepting applications for our CPE Residency Program! This is a unique opportunity to provide spiritual care within a multidisciplinary team while earning 3 units of CPE.
Program Details
Dates: August 17, 2026 – August 27, 2027
Benefits: Fully compensated position (stipend and benefits included)
Focus: Emotional intelligence, crisis ministry, multicultural care, and board certification preparation.
Cost: No application fee and no tuition for the residency.
Join a 45-year legacy of excellence in spiritual care education.
Learn more and apply today at pennstatehealth.org/hmc-pastoral
Email: [email protected]
03/26/2026
We are grateful to welcome Ken Linder as our new CPE Educator and manager of our program, Since his arrival in February, Ken has jumped into the life of our department with energy, thoughtfulness, and vision. Ken has actively integrated into the educational life of our students, collaborating with staff and residents to shape the future of CPE at Hershey Medical Center.
Ken brings more than 20 years of ministry and CPE leadership experience as an ordained minister in the Christian and Missionary Alliance, a former senior pastor, and an ACPE Certified Educator. He previously launched and led a comprehensive CPE program at the Richmond VA Medical Center and currently serves on the ACPE National Faculty. Ken holds a Master of Divinity and a PhD in mechanical engineering, bringing both pastoral depth and academic excellence to his work.
We are actively recruiting for our 2026/2027 residency program. Visit our website to learn more about applying to the program: https://med.psu.edu/residencies-fellowships/professional-programs/pastoral-education-residency-level-ii
📸 Photo: A snapshot from a recent learning session, engaging with residents in theological reflection and clinical practice.
08/30/2025
This past week was one of both gratitude and bittersweet goodbyes. 💙
We celebrated the incredible ministry of David Carnish, who has faithfully served as our CPE Educator for more than 12 years. David is stepping into an exciting new role with the national accrediting body, ACPE, as the Director of Education. His wisdom and leadership have shaped so many chaplains, and his impact here will be felt for years to come.
We also shared tearful farewells with our 2025 Residency Group, whose presence, compassion, and dedication have blessed our community in immeasurable ways. Before departing, they offered heartfelt blessings to the incoming residents, who now take up the mantle of spiritual care.
Transitions are never easy, but they remind us of the deep legacy of love, faith, and service that continues to grow here at Hershey Medical Center. We wish David and our residents every blessing in the journey ahead.
08/08/2025
This summer, our Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) interns brought heart, hope, and healing to the patients, families, and staff of Hershey Medical Center through their compassionate ministry and presence.
On August 8th, we celebrated their graduation and the transformative work they accomplished. Educator David Carnish reminded the group that CPE is not only about building pastoral skills, but also about tearing down old patterns to meet people authentically in their moments of need.
Congratulations to Matt Jenkins and Emily Harr on completing their first unit of CPE, and to Oat Dangruan, who completed her second unit. Your care and commitment made a lasting impact, and we are so proud of your growth and service.
Thank you for being a vital part of our spiritual care team this summer!
