Dr. Crider is the Executive Director and Professor of Nursing with the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. He previously served as Assistant Dean for Administration and Special Projects and Director of the Veteran to BSN program with the Duquesne University School of Nursing. “The LEAD Fund is delighted to have our esteemed Dr. Mark Crider as a member of the board. Dr. Crider adds a unique perspective coming from the nursing profession and a STEM field in particular. Dr. Crider is also an accomplished researcher and health policy specialist, and will add significantly to our research agenda,” said Dr. Christopher Metzler, Chair of the LEAD Fund Board of Directors.

Dr. Crider has a diverse nursing background as a staff nurse, nurse manager, nursing director, lobbyist, management and organizational development specialist, and nurse educator. His research interest is focused on policy, specifically health policy impacting persons with chronic mental illness in the community, professional practice policies, and nursing education policies.

In October 2018, Dr. Crider was elected to a second two-year term as President of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association (PSNA), the state constituent member of the American Nurses Association (ANA). He previously served as Board President of the Peer Support and Advocacy Network, Allegheny County.