Retiring Schuylkill senior advocate praised for work

Georgene Fedoriska oversaw Schuylkill County’s Office of Senior Services for 10 years, leading the county’s efforts to advocate for seniors and develop the social service systems in the county.

On Wednesday, the day after she retired, the Schuylkill County Commissioners praised her for her service as they officially appointed her replacement.

“It’s a very challenging job — any social services job is challenging. Georgene handled it very professionally. We’re certainly going to lose a good person in Georgene. We wish her all the luck in the world,” said Frank J. Staudenmeier, chairman of the board of supervisors.

DeAnna Orlowsky, who previously served as the office’s deputy administrator, assumed her position as executive director on Wednesday. The supervisors voted unanimously to appoint her to the position at a salary of $63,900.

Commissioner Gary Hess emphasized the importance of the office of senior services to a county like Schuylkill, which has a large proportion of senior citizens.

“Our agency is challenged to make sure our citizens live up to the quality of life, and the best quality of life they can. Georgene did that during her tenure.

He said it was a joy to work with Fedoriska.

Commissioner George Halcovage said Fedoriska is the type of employee who shuns personal accolades, but is always quick to credit her staff.

“We’re only as good as the people we surround ourselves by, and we’re very fortunate to have great employees here,” he said.

As evidence of her dedication, he said, Fedoriska is already volunteering as an ombudsman, advocating for seniors during investigations into nursing homes and other facilities.

Fedoriska held her position for 10 years.

According to published reports, she previously served as the office’s Aging Care management supervisor. She and Orlowsky were not at Wednesday’s meeting.