AAA Central Penn Appoints Two New Directors to Board

AAA Central Penn has welcomed Dr. Charles Palmer of Harrisburg University of Science and the Arts and Ayana Thomas of Penn State Health to its board of directors.

"Charles and Ayana are tremendous additions to our board of directors," said AAA Central Penn President Jodie Daubert. "We are honored to have such knowledgeable and experienced leaders join the board and look forward to drawing on their expertise to best serve our members."

Dr. Palmer is interim dean of the School of Applied Media and Innovation at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, where he leads eight interdisciplinary programs spanning technology, business, media and experiential learning. He holds a doctorate in data science and a master's in analytics.

Dr. Palmer's work centers on the responsible integration of generative and agentic artificial intelligence (AI) as tools for workforce transformation, operational efficiency and learning innovation. He is widely recognized as a thought leader in emerging technology, regularly advising organizations, delivering executive workshops, and providing expert testimony on the societal and economic impacts of AI.

Thomas serves as regional director of information services at Penn State Health, where she advises executive leadership on cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, AI strategy, and business continuity across a large, integrated health system. With more than 20 years of experience leading digital transformation, enterprise risk oversight, and strategic growth, she is known for aligning innovation with fiduciary responsibility and long-term organizational resilience.

Thomas has formal board training through United Way, is a graduate from a Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program and holds an AI Certification from Cornell University. She has an academic background in computer science and technical communications, and she holds several professional certifications reflecting deep expertise in structured oversight, operational resilience and crisis readiness.

About AAA Central Penn

AAA Central Penn provides over 325,000 Pennsylvanians with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through local branches. The organization serves members in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin and Perry counties. AAA Central Penn is one of 32 AAA automotive clubs across North America. Since 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. To become a member, visit AAA.com. For regional AAA news and information, follow AAA Central Penn on Facebook and Instagram.