Suburban EMS staff hand out trick or treat candy at Palmer Park Mall on Saturday, October 29, 2017.
(Pictured: Alicia Melhem, Ryan Hoff and Barb Reilly).
Suburban EMS staff hand out trick or treat candy at Palmer Park Mall on Saturday, October 29, 2017.
(Pictured: Alicia Melhem, Ryan Hoff and Barb Reilly).
Ashley Harlacher is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator with over 15 years of progressive experience in skilled nursing operations, regulatory compliance, staff development, and interdisciplinary team leadership. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Health Policy and Administration from Penn State University in 2011 and has since dedicated her career to improving the quality of care and life for individuals in long-term care settings. Throughout her career, she has worked in facilities that partner with Suburban for transportation services and has developed a close working relationship with the organization. She values their compassion, professionalism, and community-first approach, and admires their ongoing commitment to the well-being of their passengers and the communities they serve.
Darrell Doremus retired as a Colonel from the US Army after 20+ years and is currently serving at Johnson & Johnson as the Director of Strategy in Neuroscience for the North American franchise. In his current role he develops strategies to support commercialization of new assets, drives strategic decision-making, portfolio optimization and alignment on portfolio management. Darrell holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, a Master of Science (MS) in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, and a Master of Arts (MA) in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. In addition, he also graduated from the Pharmaceutical Management Executive Certification Program at the Rutgers Business School in New Brunswick, New Jersey. In addition, Darrell is also a volunteer firefighter in his community. Darrell blends strategic insight with a strong commitment to teamwork, purpose, and community values at Suburban EMS.
Santa Wright is the Vice-Chair of Suburban EMS and has been a dedicated member of the Board since 1997, including 17 years as Chair. A Registered Nurse with a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, Santa’s career spans emergency nursing, primary and home health care, long-term care insurance, and hospital administration at Easton Hospital, where she oversaw departments such as Resource Management, Social Services, and Registration before retiring in 2002. In retirement, Santa continues her lifelong commitment to community service through Suburban EMS, the Palmer Kiwanis Club, where she has served as President and Foundation board member and volunteer work with DeSales University. She resides in Bethlehem Township with her husband, Don, and enjoys time with their two adult children and granddaughter.
Donna Klass is the Chairman of the Board for Suburban EMS. She currently works for Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine where she supports the Company Group Chairman for the Global Commercial Strategy Organization. Donna holds an Associate of Applied Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management. Donna also holds both a National Registry for EMT as well as for Pennsylvania for over 20 years. She volunteered actively and later served as Director of Volunteers for SEMS for many years. Donna chose to serve on the board to continue her passion for helping patients and our community.
Tim Werkheiser is recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s most experienced and respected paramedics, with more than two decades of frontline service in emergency medical care. Known for his clinical expertise, leadership under pressure, and dedication to advancing pre-hospital care, Tim has earned the respect of colleagues and EMS professionals across the state.
He holds multiple advanced certifications, has served as a field training officer, and contributes regularly to paramedic education programs. Whether responding to high-stakes emergencies or mentoring the next generation of medics, Tim exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in the field.
Barbara Reilly serves as the Executive Director of Suburban EMS, bringing more than 19 years of dedicated service and leadership to the organization. Starting as a billing specialist, Barb quickly advanced through multiple roles. Today, she oversees key departments such as operations, finance, and human resources. Known for her leadership, and focus on community-centered care, Barbara has guided Suburban EMS through organizational growth and change while strengthening communication, and partnerships.
Michael Rapp serves as the Operations Manager for Suburban EMS, bringing over two decades of dedicated service to the organization. Beginning his career as a junior volunteer, Michael has grown into a leadership role where he oversees daily field operations, ensures high standards of patient care, and supports the team of EMTs and paramedics who serve our community.
Known for his steady leadership and operational expertise, Michael plays a vital role in coordinating resources, guiding field staff, and making sure Suburban EMS remains responsive and reliable under any circumstance. Michael is recognized not only for his clinical skill but also for his ability to manage complex situations and mentor the next generation of EMS professionals. His leadership helps ensure that Suburban EMS continues its mission of providing compassionate, high-quality emergency medical services across the region.
Bryan Dunlap has served as Suburban EMS’s Director of Finance since 2022, where he is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization’s financial operations. From budgeting and long-term planning to compliance and fiscal strategy, Bryan ensures that Suburban EMS remains financially strong and well-positioned to continue serving the community with excellence. His background in both finance and healthcare administration gives him a unique perspective on aligning fiscal responsibility with the daily needs of patients, providers, and staff. Prior to his position at Suburban EMS, he worked in the long-term care industry in the Lehigh Valley and continues to hold a Pennsylvania Nursing Home Administrator license. Bryan’s leadership in finance helps drive sustainability, innovation, and growth—ensuring that Suburban EMS thrives in a changing healthcare environment while staying true to its mission of community-focused care.
Don DeReamus is the Quality Assurance Manager and Government Relations Liaison at Suburban EMS, overseeing patient care and continuous quality improvement. Don also interacts, educates and engages local, state and federal government representatives to the betterment of our organization and the EMS industry.
With over 50 years in public safety, 45 years in EMS, he draws on a vast knowledge from EMS, firefighting, disaster response and emergency management. Don serves on multiple statewide Boards and Commissions, participated in the drafting of the current EMS statute and regulations and has spent 30 years educating policymakers in Harrisburg on EMS.
Alicia Melhem Border serves as the Business Administrator for Suburban EMS, a position she has held since 2014. In this role, she oversees the organization’s financial operations, budgeting, and administrative functions, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across all business processes. Alicia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from DeSales University as well as an Associate degree in Business Administration from Northampton Community College. With a strong background in accounting and business management, Alicia plays a key role in supporting the operational and strategic goals of Suburban EMS.
As HR Manager for Suburban EMS, Olivia Adams leads recruitment, employee engagement, and initiatives that promote an inclusive workplace. With more than a decade of healthcare experience, she brings a people-first approach to every aspect of her work, ensuring that employees feel supported, valued, and motivated to succeed.
