CTSI Partner Spotlight Casey Sheehan
Research Intern, Schuylkill Healthy Aging Task Force, Penn State Biobehavioral Health, Class of 2028
In our Partner Spotlight series, we highlight the dedicated individuals and organizations collaborating with Penn State CTSI to create healthier, more engaged communities.
When Casey Sheehan joined Penn State CTSI as a research intern, she didn't expect to be quite so involved on the front lines.
"People might be surprised by how hands-on and student-involved CTSI initiatives are," Casey shared. "Interns and students play a meaningful role in planning, communication, and execution—not just observation."
This summer, Casey put that hands-on approach into practice by serving as a driving force behind the . Working with the Schuylkill Healthy Aging Task Force, Casey helped coordinate exhibitors, communicated with community organizations, and assisted with vital outreach efforts to connect older adults with local health and aging resources.
Preparing for a Career in Healthcare
As a Biobehavioral Health major with a background in hospitality and senior care, Casey is deeply invested in the medical field. Her internship provided a unique opportunity to blend her academic interests with real-world public health application.
"I am inspired by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives while preparing for a future career in healthcare," she explained. "Seeing how community outreach can directly connect individuals to resources and support systems motivates me, especially knowing the impact these efforts can have on older adults’ quality of life."
Through her work coordinating the fair, which successfully brought together 8 exhibitors and 40 guests, Casey learned that public health requires more than just scientific expertise.
"One important lesson I’ve learned is that effective communication and organization are just as important as technical knowledge," she noted. "Being able to clearly connect with community partners, stay organized during planning, and work collaboratively has a direct impact on how successful a project or event becomes."
The Power of a Supportive Team
A major highlight of Casey's experience was the mentorship and collaborative environment fostered by CTSI staff, particularly Nicole Tarr, Director of Partnerships, and Jessica Petrie, Education Program Specialist. She credits their weekly meetings and strong teamwork for making the experience both meaningful and enjoyable, helping her grow personally and professionally.
For Casey, a true "win" is seeing the direct result of that teamwork: "A well-executed event where community members leave feeling informed, supported, and connected to helpful resources."
Get to Know Casey:
How she recharges: "I recharge by getting outside and spending time in fresh air. I enjoy running, walking, and reading outdoors, which helps me clear my mind and reset."
A fun fact: She has a wild family birthday streak! Her dad's birthday is the day before hers, and she and her mom actually share the exact same birthday.
What she wants you to know about her work: "Aging-related work is not just about healthcare—it’s about community, connection, and quality of life. Supporting older adults requires a team effort that goes beyond medicine and includes education, outreach, and accessibility."