Commissioners approve Jacqueline McKenna as Pocopson administrator 

Jacqueline McKenna

WEST CHESTER – The Chester County Commissioners approved the appointment on Monday, March 24, of a longtime employee as the new administrator of the county-owned Pocopson Home.

Jacqueline McKenna, who holds the state-required nursing home administrator license, has been interim director since the position opened last year, a county news release said.

“Jackie has provided more than a decade of valuable service while working at Pocopson Home, and she is the logical choice to take over as administrator,” said Commissioners Chairman Ryan Costello.  “She has been part of the process to create extra revenue and reduce costs at the home, and we’re confident that she will continue this practice, without compromising the high quality of service to residents.”

McKenna served as assistant director from 2011 to 2013 and began her time at Pocopson in 1990.  After working for a time in food and nutrition services, she was appointed director of the division, and in 2010 she became director of support services, the release said.

“Jackie is uniquely qualified to take over the reins of Pocopson Home,” said Commissioner Kathi Cozzone. “She has successfully directed key departments over the years, and will ensure the home continues to provide valuable and necessary services for citizens of Chester County.

Commissioner Terence Farrell added during McKenna’s six-month term as interim director of the 275-bed, long-term care facility.  “She has a vast understanding of long-term, health-care issues and has demonstrated that she’s able to analyze and increase operational efficiencies without disrupting the great level of care,” he said.

McKenna has also worked as an IT consultant. She is an active member of the Pennsylvania Association of County Homes and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.  In addition to the state-required nursing home administrator license, McKenna is a licensed registered dietitian, has a degree in food and nutrition from Immaculata University, and undertook graduate studies in health-care administration at St. Joseph’s University, the release said.

The Pocopson Home, which offers care for adults of all ages as well as professional medical, nursing and rehabilitation services, has routinely received positive reviews for its services from residents. About two years ago, the commissioners held a series of public meetings to explore the possibility of stemming rising costs by leasing or selling the facility. However, the public outcry over those options dissuaded officials from pursuing them.