McKinley will be providing inpatient services as part of the Pediatric Hospitalist group and also working with Mount Nittany Health Pediatrics.

Her journey to becoming a pediatrician included a rigorous pediatric residency through Seattle Children’s Hospital and the University of Washington. This comprehensive training prepared her to provide exceptional care to children and their families, a passion she has held dear throughout her career.

“I am dedicated to a holistic approach to pediatric care that focuses on physical health, preventative care, and quality of life,” said McKinley. “I am passionate about keeping children healthy and vibrant and instilling the importance of long-term well-being.”

What inspires and motivates McKinley as a healthcare provider is the resilience and potential of her pediatric patients. She is also deeply motivated by her co-workers and Mount Nittany Health’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare to the community.

“I enjoy helping children develop into healthy and thriving individuals,” she said.

McKinley specializes in several areas but primarily focuses on the newborn nursery and outpatient pediatrics. Her expertise extends to maternal and female health research, underscoring her commitment to the well-being of both mothers and their children. She also has a strong background in adolescent medicine, addressing the unique healthcare needs of teenagers.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate in medicine from Columbia University. During her residency, she became involved with the American Academy of Pediatrics and plans to continue her involvement in the Pennsylvania chapter. She is also fluent in Spanish, which enhances her ability to connect with a diverse patient population and bridge language barriers.

Outside of her medical practice, McKinley deeply values her family. She is one of five siblings, and her father’s impressive 30-year career as a pediatric intensivist has significantly influenced her path. Her brother is Daniel McKinley, MD, MBA, Medical Director of Quality and Patient Safety at Mount Nittany Health, and she noted that his positive experience at Mount Nittany Health was an important factor in her decision to join the team. She shares her passion for medicine with three brothers and a sister-in-law, creating a bond that transcends the profession. McKinley and her family enjoy spending quality time together, whether at the beach, on vacations, or hiking in the great outdoors. Running is another shared interest that keeps the family active and connected.

McKinley looks forward to working with parents and caregivers to provide the best possible care for their children. We look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make on the health and well-being of the children in the Centre region.

For more information visit, mountnittany.org/pediatrics or call Mount Nittany Health Pediatrics at 814.466.7921.