Press Release

PUC Announces Additional Appointments to Consumer Advisory Council

Published on 8/28/2025

Filed under: Consumer Education Electric Gas Motor Carrier Pipeline Rails Telecommunications Transportation and Safety Water and Wastewater

The Council Advises PUC Commissioners on Matters Related to the Protection of Consumer Interests Under PUC Jurisdiction

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today announced two additional appointments to its Consumer Advisory Council (CAC), which provides input to the PUC on issues important to utility customers. Today’s appointees will serve on the CAC through June 30, 2027. 

The Commission ratified two legislative appointments:

• Jen Marsh, of Bedford, is President & CEO of the Bedford County Development Association, leading the county's business recruitment, retention and job creation efforts. Marsh brings more than 15 years of professional experience in communications, organizational leadership, and community development. Her expertise includes building public-private partnerships, advancing rural infrastructure, and engaging a broad cross section of stakeholders. She is recognized for her community-driven perspective and strong commitment to advancing Bedford County's economic and quality-of-life goals. Marsh earned her bachelor’s degree in communication, graduating summa cum laude from Walden University, Minneapolis, MN.
  
  
• Baron L. Vanderburg, of Easton, is a Senior Regional Admissions Officer for George Mason University. He also has served in admissions leadership roles at Muhlenberg College, Kutztown University and East Stroudsburg University. In addition to his career in higher education, Vanderburg has a strong record of public service and community leadership. He is the former Vice President of the Easton Area School Board, a board member for the Greater Community Development Corporation of Easton, and a board member for the Community Action Lehigh Valley Generation Next Program. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science/public administration from East Stroudsburg University and a master’s degree in student affairs in higher education from Kutztown University

“Thank you in advance to both Ms. Marsh and Mr. Vanderburg for their involvement on the CAC and their willingness to devote their time and efforts to give consumers an active voice at the Commission,” said PUC Chairman Steve DeFrank.

Ms. Marsh and Mr. Vanderburg join the 2025-27 membership of the CAC. At the July 10 Public Meeting, the Commission ratified appointments to the CAC for a new two-year term beginning July 1, 2025. The Commission reappointed five “At-Large” members, made two appointments of “At-Large” members, and ratified three executive and legislative appointments via a Motion offered by the Chairman.

• Sonny Popowsky, of Philadelphia, Chairman
• Lenora M. Best, of Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin County, Vice Chair
• Mary Bach, of Murrysville, Westmoreland County
• Patrick M. Cicero, of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County
• Charles L. Lanier, of Philadelphia
• Elizabeth “Liz” R. Marx, of Harrisburg
• Theresa D. Mingarell, of Camp Hill, Cumberland County
• Chad J. Quinn, of Pittsburgh
• Sylvia P. Simms, of Philadelphia
• Autumn Thomas, of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County

The Consumer Advisory Council advises the PUC Commissioners on matters related to the protection of consumer interests under the jurisdiction of the PUC. Council meetings are held bimonthly and are open to the public. Members serve without compensation.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

Docket Number M-2025-3056098

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov