Estate planning and other legal documents that are often entailed in end-of-life planning. Penn State DuBois Continuing and Community Education is preparing to offer a new seminar series that aims to help individuals and families navigate end-of-life planning.
DuBOIS, Pa. — A new seminar series offered by Penn State DuBois Continuing and Community Education aims to help individuals and families navigate the emotional and practical challenges of end-of-life planning. Titled “Ask the Expert: Navigating End of Life,” the free, three-part series will provide expert-led discussions on funeral planning, elder law, estate planning and hospice care.
Led by Jessica Clontz, assistant teaching professor of human development and family studies, the series is designed to serve the community through compassionate guidance and support. Each session will feature a panel of professionals who will share their knowledge and answer participants’ questions.
“This topic can be overwhelming and deeply personal,” Clontz said. “Our goal is to provide a welcoming space for community members to learn, ask questions, and feel more confident about the steps ahead.”
The series includes the following sessions, all held at 6 p.m. on the Penn State DuBois campus:
- Aug. 6 – “Ask a Funeral Director,” featuring Jeffrey Baronick, funeral director
- Sept. 3 – “Ask an Estate Planner and Elder Law Attorney,” featuring Adrianne Peters Sipes, estate planning/elder law attorney and Leanne Nedza, attorney and panelist
- Oct. 1 – “Ask a Hospice Team,” featuring Cindy DeNoon, registered nurse, and Sherilyn Sheets, death doula
Each seminar is free and open to the public. Ample time will be provided for audience questions following each panel presentation.
The series is made possible through funding from the Penn State Opportunity Grant, a professional development program designed to support non-tenure-line teaching faculty through self-proposed development projects.
“When a call for proposals was sent out last year, I knew exactly what I would use the funding for,” Clontz said. “This seminar series is something I’ve dreamed of doing for several years. The literature shows that accessible educational programs on end-of-life topics can improve communication and decision-making within families and support individuals caring for loved ones. I’m honored to bring that resource to our local community.”
To register, visit the Continuing and Community Education at Penn State DuBois website for this series or call 814-375-4715.
