Meet the Board
Erie, PA
Michelle Jukkola is a wife and mom of 2. She was born and raised in Erie and the surrounding area all her life. Growing up, Michelle was faced with many obstacles which is why she is passionate about her community and the surrounding area. She wants to help as many kids as possible to have the opportunity at a wonderful life.
“Hope is born again in the faces of children. — Maya Angelou”
Dr. Julia is an assistant professor teaching pediatric coursework at Gannon University in Erie, PA. She continues to work clinically as a pediatric occupational therapist in early intervention. She has over 19 years of pediatric occupational therapy experience and has dedicated most of her career to educating individuals about how to support youth with special needs. Her own children have grown up understanding the importance of accepting all people and have enjoyed many opportunities being around people of all abilities. She assisted in developing the Feeding Clinic at Shriner’s Outpatient Specialty Care Center in Erie, PA and currently runs The Little Knights Clinic at Gannon University that evaluates and treats underserved children. She focuses her scholarly work in the area of tactile play and food aversion. Her natural love for children and lifetime connection to Erie are assets to Mission Empower while she hopes the Erie community and beyond can come together to support the inclusion of all youth to all things possible.
Erie, PA
Donna Bish has lived in Erie, PA for eighteen years and is a wife and mother of two. Donna was introduced to Mission Empower as a resource while seeking an IEP for her daughter. With a prior teaching background, she understands the challenges and resources involved in helping children grow to their full potential. Mission Empower has been a great asset to her daughter through the Mission Read program, gaining confidence and furthering her reading skills. Donna has also tutored several students, witnessing their advancement in reading and personal skills. As a member of the board, Donna looks forward to participating in other programs that Mission Empower offers, giving families resources and peace of mind in helping their children with various special needs.
Erie, PA
Taylor Roth is an Erie native and has served as a Mission Read tutor since 2022, and recently joined the Board. I joined Mission Empower when I was looking for ways to volunteer that allowed me to give back to my community while also exploring my passions. As an avid reader with a degree in creative writing, helping children in Erie County grow their love of reading has become one of my favorite experiences.
In both my personal and professional life, I strive to help better the lives of members in my community, and look forward to continuing that as a member of the board.
I am also a fiber artist and cat lover.
Erie, PA
Vanessa Pimentel-Reyes is a single mother of two, ages 17 and 15, that attends City of Erie
schools. Vanessa first connected with Mission Empower in 2022 when they provided invaluable
support and information for my son, who was in 7th grade.
Because of this experience, Vanessa is extremely interested in partnering with Mission Empower
to support and inform other Hispanic-speaking parents and students. She is committed to helping
break down the language barriers that often isolate families in our area and wants to advocate for
them in the Erie community.
Vanessa remains deeply grateful for the guidance and knowledge she received from Mission
Empower.