Nesquehoning native receives doctor of medicine degree

Christine Marie Homcha graduated as a doctor of medicine with high academic honors from the Penn State College of Medicine on May 15, 2011.

The daughter of Steve and Marge Homcha of Nesquehoning, she is a 2000 graduate of Marian High School, and a 2005 graduate of Misericordia University, where she earned her bachelor of science degree in health sciences, as well as her master's degree in physical therapy. She was employed in the physical therapy departments of the Blue Mountain Health System and Lehigh Valley Hospital prior to entering medical school.

While in medical school, Homcha co-found the Penn State Chapter of Operation Smile, which provides corrective surgery to cleft lip and cleft palate for underprivileged children worldwide. She led community outreach programs for LionCare, a student-run free clinic for the homeless population of Harrisburg. She is an active member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society and the American Medical Association, and was involved in the Plastic Surgery Interest Group, Advance Directives Project and Lux et Veritas.

Following graduation, Homcha has begun her residency training in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center.

Homcha is the granddaughter of Frank and Helen Homcha of Nesquehoning and Joseph and Florence Filip of Summit Hill.