Heather Perna

Clinical assistant with dual degrees in Biology and Psychology, with minors in Chemistry and Forensics. Four years of direct patient care experience in primary care, along with additional experience in occupational health, behavioral health, and pain management. Committed to supporting high-quality patient care and contributing meaningfully in diverse clinical environments.

• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
  Valid through April 2027
• Certified EKG Technician (CET), National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
  Valid through April 2027
• Basic Life Support (BLS), American Heart Association (AHA)
  Valid through May 2027

Clinical Assistant / Shadowing Student – Spinal Care Pain Associates
Philadelphia, PA | April 2024 – Present

Shadow a physician assistant in interventional pain medicine while assisting with patient intake, assessments, and documentation. Contribute to direct patient care and observe clinical decision-making in a specialty setting.

President, Pre-Health Club
Alvernia University, Jan 2021 – Dec 2023
Started as Secretary and advanced to President; led pre-health initiatives, organized campus-wide volunteer events, and hosted guest speaker panels.

Vice President, Psychology Club
Alvernia University, Aug 2023 – Dec 2023
Planned academic enrichment activities and coordinated mental health awareness efforts among students.

Co-President, AU Science Association
Alvernia University, Feb 2023 – Dec 2023
Fostered student engagement in the sciences and supported professional development programming.

Women in STEAM – Co-Founder
Alvernia University | January 2023 – December 2023

Co-founded a club to support and empower women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Helped develop the group's mission and goals, contributed to discussions on representation in STEAM fields, and collaborated with members to build a supportive academic environment.

Claire's Cupboard Student Volunteer

Alvernia University | Dec 2019 – May 2024
Assisted with food distribution, supply organization, and campus-wide service initiatives supporting students and local families in need.

Alternative Break Mission Trip – Dominican Republic
Alvernia University | May 2023

Taught English and science to children in Tres Los Brazos and visited individuals with illness or disabilities. Built trust through patience and presence while navigating language barriers. Gained cultural awareness and a deeper understanding of how to support underserved communities.

Animal Care Volunteer
The Oasis Animal Sanctuary | May 2024 – Aug 2024
Provided hands-on care for rescued animals, maintained clean and safe enclosures, and supported shelter operations.

Mentor, Big Brothers Big Sisters
Vineland, NJ | Sep 2018 – May 2019
Mentored two elementary-aged children, providing consistent guidance, emotional support, and academic encouragement through individualized activities.

Community Volunteer
Franklin Township Recreation Commission | Jan 2016 – Present
Helped plan and support community events, including Franklin Township Community Day, which draws over 7,000 attendees annually. Assisted with fundraising efforts, event setup, and engaging with residents to promote local involvement.

Holleran Center Community Engagement Award, Alvernia University — May 2024
Presented to graduating seniors who completed 500+ hours of community service, recognizing dedication to civic and community engagement.

Franciscan Servant Leader Certification, Alvernia University — April 2024
Awarded to seniors who completed 100+ hours of service through service-learning, mission trips, education outreach, and environmental initiatives.

Annual Award for Excellence in Service, Alvernia University — March 2023
Presented to students who completed 100+ hours of community service in one academic year.

MAC Fall Academic Honor Roll – Women’s Soccer, Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) — January 2023

CSC Academic All-District – Women’s Soccer, College Sports Communicators (CSC) — November 2022

Student Scholar Athlete Award, Alvernia University — June 2022

Dean’s List, Alvernia University — 2019–2023
Recognized for academic excellence in multiple semesters.

MAC Fall Academic Honor Roll – Women’s Soccer, Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) — January 2020