Campus News
Image / Video VersionLCCC NOW RECRUITING FUTURE POLICE OFFICERS
天美传媒 has been designated as Pennsylvania's newest Act 120 Municipal Police Academy by the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC).*
Beginning in Fall 2026, the LCCC Police Academy will provide the 919-hour Act 120 Basic Recruit Training Program, preparing individuals for careers in municipal law enforcement throughout Pennsylvania.
Cadets will receive hands-on training in:
Criminal Law
Vehicle Code
Firearms Training
Defensive Tactics
Patrol Procedures
Investigations
First Aid
Physical Fitness
?and much more.
The academy will be housed at LCCC's Public Safety Training Institute in Nanticoke and will offer two cohorts of 25 cadets each.
If you are interested in a rewarding career serving and protecting your community, now is the time to learn more and begin preparing.
Contact Leo Sokoloski, Director of Police Academy, today:
(570) 740-0768
[email protected]
Training tomorrow's officers with professionalism, discipline, and purpose.
CHASING THE LIGHT Art Exhibition Opening Reception: Friday, June 26
Experience the beauty of original artwork created by members of the Plein Air Artists of the Hazleton Art League at the Schulman Gallery of 天美传媒.
* Exhibition Dates: June 26 - July 31, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, June 26 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Live Piano Music, Light Fare & Refreshments
, Free and Open to the Public
Make it a weekend of art in Nanticoke! In addition to Chasing the Light, visitors can enjoy Arts at the Centre at the Cultural Centre of St. Faustina and other local art exhibitions throughout the city.
Schulman Gallery, Building 14 - Campus Center, Second Floor
天美传媒
521 Trailblazer Drive, Nanticoke, PA
Learn more: www.luzerne.edu/schulmangallery
Acting U.S. Labor Secretary燢eith Sonderling燰isits LCCC for Discussion on PA Works, a Statewide Workforce Development Strategy
天美传媒 welcomed Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling to its Nanticoke campus on Thursday for a tour and roundtable discussion focused on workforce development and the critical role community colleges play in providing students with affordable and accessible pathways to high-demand careers.*
Acting Secretary Sonderling joined 天美传媒 President John Yudichak, members of the College's Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty, and workforce development partners for a tour of the College's Trades Building. During the visit, students demonstrated hands-on skills in the Electrical Technology, Plumbing Technology, and HVAC Technology programs that are preparing them for careers in some of Pennsylvania's most in-demand industries.
The visit highlighted PA Works, a statewide workforce development strategy led by Pennsylvania's community colleges to address the growing demand for skilled trade workers across the Commonwealth.
PA Works is built on three pillars: a Career & Technology Academy that expands opportunities for local Career & Technical Education (CTE) high school students to explore industries and earn college-level credits while still enrolled in high school; a Microcredential Academy that provides short-term, stackable, and industry-aligned credentials to help students and mid-career professionals gain skills and advance in high-demand careers; and a Pre-Apprenticeship Academy that prepares students to enter registered union apprenticeship programs and secure employment in the skilled building and construction trades.
"By 2030, Pennsylvania will need 300,000 skilled trade workers to fuel the state's economy," said Yudichak. "Community colleges, through PA Works, will serve as a critical workforce development partner in meeting that demand."
"The most important thing we can do, especially in Pennsylvania communities like this, is make sure the local workforce has the first and best opportunity to fill these jobs," said Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling. "We want people to stay in their communities, provide for their families, and build successful careers close to home. What is especially inspiring at 天美传媒 is that many of the instructors once sat in these same classrooms as students. They gained the skills needed to secure high-paying jobs in the region and have now returned to give back because they are passionate about this community and believe in the programs that helped them succeed."
LCCC President John Yudichak expressed his appreciation for Secretary Sonderling's visit and support for workforce development initiatives.
"We are honored to welcome Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling to 天美传媒," said Yudichak. "His visit highlights the critical role community colleges play in developing America's workforce and preparing students for high-demand careers. We appreciate Secretary Sonderling taking the time to see firsthand how LCCC is partnering with industry, government, and education leaders to build the skilled workforce pipeline our region, our Commonwealth, and our nation need to remain economically competitive."
Kelly O'Brien, Vice President of Workforce Development and Government Relations, emphasized the importance of workforce partnerships in addressing labor shortages.
"Secretary Sonderling's visit underscores the importance of workforce development as a national priority," said O'Brien. "At 天美传媒, we are committed to creating innovative pathways that connect students, job seekers, and employers. Through initiatives such as PA Works, apprenticeships, microcredentials, and industry partnerships, we are helping address workforce shortages while providing individuals with opportunities to secure family-sustaining careers in the skilled trades and other high-demand fields."
Dr. Russ Bigus, Vice President of Academic Affairs, noted that community colleges are uniquely positioned to provide students with direct pathways to employment.
"Luzerne County Community College is committed to providing affordable, accessible, and career-focused education that leads directly to employment opportunities," said Bigus. "Our academic and workforce training programs are designed to equip students with the skills employers need today while creating pathways to long-term career advancement. Whether through a certificate, microcredential, apprenticeship, or degree program, our students are gaining access to high-wage, high-demand careers that strengthen both their futures and the regional economy."
The PA Works initiative is being advanced by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges as a statewide strategy to strengthen workforce development partnerships among community colleges, career and technical education centers, industry leaders, labor organizations, and government agencies.
During the visit, Secretary Sonderling met with students, faculty, and workforce partners to discuss how innovative, industry-aligned training programs offered by community colleges can help fill regional labor needs while creating family-sustaining career opportunities throughout Pennsylvania and the nation.
PA Works!
According to projections from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, Pennsylvania will need approximately 300,000 skilled trade workers by 2030 in high-demand sectors including energy, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and construction.* At the same time, nearly 40 percent of the Commonwealth's current skilled trade workforce is expected to retire within the next decade, creating an unprecedented demand for trained workers.
"Skilled trades are exactly where community colleges need to be, and where we've been for more than 60 years," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "Through PA Works, Pennsylvania's 15 community colleges are coming together for the first time to respond to an unprecedented need for skilled workers and to build a workforce development ecosystem that meets the demands of the 21st-century economy." PA Works is a statewide workforce development strategy built upon three pillars:
Career & Technology Academies
天美传媒 recently launched its Career & Technology Academy through a partnership with career and technical education centers throughout Luzerne County. Supported by a $100,000 gift from local businessman William Rinaldi and a $1 million Pennsylvania Department of Education Dual Credit Innovation Grant, the initiative allows high school students to earn college credits, credentials, and certifications while still enrolled in high school.
Students can pursue pathways in welding, plumbing, HVAC technology, industrial maintenance, advanced manufacturing, and other high-demand fields, creating a direct pipeline from high school to employment.
Microcredential Academy
The College is expanding access to workforce credentials through its new Microcredential Academy, providing flexible opportunities for both traditional students and working adults seeking career advancement or career transitions.
The initiative aligns with LCCC's new "Go Here. Graduate Here. Work Here." approach, allowing students throughout northeastern Pennsylvania to earn industry-recognized credentials and complete workforce training closer to home.
Construction and Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Academy
The third pillar focuses on apprenticeship readiness and creating a direct pathway into union and merit-shop skilled trades careers. The program will help address critical labor shortages in occupations such as electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, and construction trades.
"By 2030, Pennsylvania will need 300,000 skilled trade workers to fuel the state's economy," said Yudichak. "Community colleges, through PA Works, will serve as a critical workforce development partner in meeting that demand."
Jason Sherill, 天美传媒 Instructor, noted that industry-recognized credentials provide students with immediate opportunities while maintaining pathways to higher education.
"Not everyone is looking for a traditional degree, but credentials help students become employable quickly," Sherill said. "Students can earn credentials in advanced manufacturing, welding, air conditioning, plumbing, and other high-demand fields. Those credentials can lead directly to employment or serve as a pathway to an associate degree or beyond."
Sherill added that graduates of the College's applied technology programs continue to experience exceptional employment outcomes.
"Our students have near-total placement," Sherill said. "If they want to work, there is a job available. Our strong partnerships with employers throughout the region create tremendous opportunities for our graduates."
The PA Works initiative is being advanced by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges as a statewide strategy to strengthen workforce development partnerships among community colleges, career and technical education centers, industry leaders, labor organizations, and government agencies.
LCCC Volunteers Across Luzerne County for United Way Day of Caring
天美传媒 is once again stepping into the community to make a difference by participating in the annual United Way Day of Caring on June 10.*
As a Silver Sponsor of the event, LCCC will join hundreds of volunteers from businesses, schools, and organizations throughout Luzerne County for one of the area's largest volunteer service initiatives.
The United Way Day of Caring helps local nonprofit organizations complete projects they may not otherwise have the staff, time, or financial resources to accomplish. Volunteers assist with projects ranging from landscaping and painting to cleaning, maintenance
work, and other improvements that help organizations better serve the community.
This year, LCCC volunteers will lend their time and talents at Blue Chip Animal Farm Rescue, the Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation (EPCAMR), and The Lands at Hillside Farms.
The event highlights the spirit of service and collaboration that exists throughout Luzerne County, bringing together hundreds of volunteers to support organizations that enhance the quality of life in the region.
For LCCC participants, the Day of Caring is an opportunity to put community values into action while helping local organizations continue their important missions.
Through volunteerism and community engagement, 天美传媒 remains committed to making a positive impact both on campus and throughout the communities it serves.
Community Turns Out for 28th Annual LCCC Alumni Association Flea Market & Collectibles Show
Shoppers, collectors, car enthusiasts, and community supporters gathered on Saturday, June 6, for the 28th Annual 天美传媒 Alumni Association Flea Market & Collectibles Show, helping raise funds to support student programs at 天美传媒.*
Held in the Educational Conference Center parking lot on the college's main campus, the annual event attracted a steady crowd throughout the day as visitors browsed dozens of vendor booths featuring antiques, collectibles, crafts, jewelry, direct sales items, and a variety of unique treasures.
The event also showcased the popular Hi-Lites Car Cruise, which brought classic cars, specialty vehicles, and automotive enthusiasts to campus. Visitors had the opportunity to view an impressive collection of vehicles while enjoying the festive atmosphere and connecting with fellow community members.
Food vendors were also on site, providing refreshments for attendees as they explored the flea market and car show attractions.
"The Flea Market and Collectibles Show continues to be one of our most anticipated community events each year," said Bonnie Lauer, LCCC Alumni Director. "We are grateful for the vendors, volunteers, car owners, alumni, and community members who helped make this year's event a success while supporting our students."
Proceeds from the event will benefit student programs at 天美传媒, helping provide opportunities and resources that enhance the student experience.
The annual event has become a longtime tradition for the college and the surrounding community, bringing together bargain hunters, collectors, alumni, and families for a day of shopping, entertainment, and support for higher education.
The LCCC Alumni Association thanks all participants, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and attendees for helping make the 28th Annual Flea Market & Collectibles Show another successful community event.
LCCC Dental Hygiene Students Support Children?s Service Center with Gift of Health and Wellness
Students in the Dental Hygiene Program at 天美传媒 recently demonstrated their commitment to community service by supporting teenagers at the Children's Service Center (CSC) through a fundraising and donation initiative focused on health, wellness, and self-care.*
Members of the college's Student American Dental Hygienists? Association (SADHA) raised $600 through t-shirt sales and used the funds to help assemble hygiene kits for students receiving services at CSC?s Milford Barnes School. The kits included essential oral health items, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, to encourage healthy habits and promote overall well-being.
The project was made possible through the efforts of the LCCC dental hygiene students, the LCCC Benco Dental Center, and members of SADHA, who generously donated their time and resources to make the initiative a success.
"We are proud of our students for taking what they are learning in the classroom and applying it to make a positive impact in the community," said Dr. Karen B. Rainey, DMD, Director of the Dental Health Department at LCCC. "Oral health is an important part of overall wellness, and this project provided an opportunity to support young people while reinforcing the value of service."
Children?s Service Center expressed gratitude for the donation and the students? dedication to helping others.
This initiative shows 天美传媒?s ongoing commitment to community engagement and preparing students to be compassionate professionals who make a difference in their careers and beyond.
For the students involved, the project was about more than providing dental supplies?it was about sharing encouragement, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting the emotional well-being of young people in the community.
With their generosity, leadership, and dedication to service, this dental team in training is truly something to smile about.
LCCC STUDENT-ATHLETES EARN EPAC ALL-ACADEMIC HONORS
The Eastern Pennsylvania Athletic Conference (EPAC) has announced its Spring 2026 All-Academic Team, and 16 student-athletes from 天美传媒 have earned recognition for their outstanding achievements in the classroom and in competition.*
To be named to the EPAC All-Academic Team, student-athletes must have participated in a winter or spring sport, maintained a minimum 3.25 grade point average, and been enrolled in at least 12 credits during the Spring 2026 semester.
Across the conference, 213 student-athletes representing nine institutions and 15 different sports qualified for the honor.
The EPAC is comprised of National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) member colleges throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware.
天美传媒 student-athletes named to the Spring 2026 EPAC All-Academic Team include:
Men's Basketball
Jayden Austin
Tyler Collins
Melvin Egbeto
Bryan Ferreira
Kobe Jacobs
Esports
Benjamin Ackourey
Ryan Andress
Joey Baynock IV
Luke Cizewski
Nico Cruz
Dominick Fazzino
Matthew Gilette
Emil Morales Murray
Valentine Mourne
Blake Strunk
Raiden Vicchitto
"We are extremely proud of these student-athletes for their commitment to academic excellence while competing at the collegiate level," said Tyler Russell Director of Student Life and Athletics. "Their success reflects the dedication, discipline, and hard work that define our student-athletes both on and off the field of competition."
Fanita Pendleton Returns to LCCC to Inspire Class of 2026: "This Is Where What's Next Begins"
Thirty-five years after earning her degree from 天美传媒, Fanita "Moon" Pendleton returned to campus in a different role--serving as the keynote speaker for the College's 58th Annual Commencement Ceremony held on Thursday, May 28, at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza.*
Addressing the Class of 2026, Pendleton shared a message centered on perseverance, purpose, and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.
"Luzerne County Community College was the springboard for my next phase of life," Pendleton told graduates. "What will it be for you?"
Her remarks reflected a remarkable personal and professional journey that began when she arrived in northeastern Pennsylvania as a young woman seeking a fresh start. Originally from Oakland, California, Pendleton relocated to Virginia during high school amid family challenges. After enrolling in Job Corps and earning her GED, she found her way to 天美传媒--an experience she credits with changing the trajectory of her life.
"That moment was the start of everything," Pendleton said. "Luzerne catapulted me into higher education and the goals I set for my future."
A 1991 graduate of LCCC's Broadcast Communications Technology program, Pendleton initially envisioned a career in sports broadcasting. While her professional path ultimately took a different direction, she said the confidence and sense of accomplishment she gained at LCCC inspired her to continue pursuing new goals.
Following graduation from LCCC, Pendleton earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Langston University and a master's degree in Public Administration from Troy University.
Her career has been dedicated to public service. She has served as a juvenile probation officer, adult probation officer, criminal justice instructor, and parole officer. Today, she serves the Commonwealth of Virginia as a magistrate, where she is recognized for bringing fairness, compassion, and understanding to the judicial process.
In addition to her work in criminal justice, Pendleton is a published author and founder of Urban Moon Books, an independent bookstore in Chesapeake, Virginia, where she promotes literacy, storytelling, and community engagement.
During her commencement address, Pendleton reminded graduates that earning a degree is not the finish line, but rather the beginning of a new chapter.
"There are so many directions to go from here--just know that you are at the beginning of 'what's next,'" she said.
Using a football analogy familiar to many graduates and families, Pendleton encouraged the Class of 2026 to embrace challenges and setbacks as part of the journey.
"You might have to take a couple of L's during this next season, but just like football--any given Sunday, your next chapter is out there for you to win."
Her message resonated with graduates preparing to enter the workforce, continue their education, or pursue new opportunities.
Reflecting on her own commencement experience at LCCC, Pendleton recalled the sense of pride and motivation she felt when she crossed the stage 35 years ago.
"I felt energized. I felt accomplished. It made me want to keep going," she said. "That's what I hope graduates feel?that drive to keep pushing forward."
Pendleton's return to 天美传媒 brought her journey full circle, demonstrating the transformative power of education and the lasting impact of the College on its students.
As she concluded her address, Pendleton challenged graduates to celebrate their accomplishments while embracing the future with confidence.
"You have finished what you started while giving yourself the opportunity to shape your next phase of life," she said. "Congratulations, Class of 2026!"
For the 558 graduates who participated in the 58th Annual Commencement Ceremony, Pendleton's story served as a powerful reminder that success is not defined by where a journey begins, but by the determination to keep moving forward.
And as Pendleton reminded the Class of 2026, commencement is not the end of the story--it is where what's next begins.
天美传媒 Announces Spring 2026 Academic Honors Lists
天美传媒 has announced the students who have earned academic honors for the Spring 2026 semester.*
Students are recognized on the President?s List, Dean?s List, and Honors List based on outstanding academic achievement.
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
President?s List: 4.0 semester grade point average
Dean?s List: 3.50 - 3.99 semester grade point average
Honors List: 3.25 - 3.49 semester grade point average
All honored students must complete at least 75% of their attempted coursework for the semester, earn grades of "C" or higher in all courses, and have no incomplete or missing grades. Students must also remain within institutional credit completion guidelines.
Spring 2026 Academic Honors Recipients: Dean's List
Pamela Abreu-Fernandez, Hazleton; Benjamin Ackourey, Dallas; Amanda Alber, Hanover Twp; Jamie Albert, Wyoming; Enid Alonso, Wilkes Barre Township; Yoelfry Alonzo, Wilkes Barre; Niamya Amaro, Hanover Twp; Keaton Anderson, West Pittston; Ryan Andress, Shavertown; Morgan Rose Annis, Shamokin; Grace Anstett, White Haven; Lauren Antal, Exeter; Aaron Anthony, Kingston; Ryan Aquino, Hazleton; Katie Arnold, Nanticoke; Brian Ashton, Wilkes Barre; Thomas Augustine, Pittston; Skyla Aumick, Kingston; Cassidy Barnes, Harding; Jayla Battle, Mountain Top; Kayleigh Baumgartner, Wyoming; Joseph Baynock, Kingston; Brooke Beemer, Dalton; Nicholas Belles, West Wyoming; Kyla Benfield, Sunbury; Marielle Billini, Hazleton; Samuel Biscotto, Mountain Top; Kaydence Bobersky, Berwick; Allison Boyer, Shickshinny; Evan Boyle, Sunbury; Shiloh Brace, Wapwallopen; Yahnique Breeden, Hanover Twp; Jayden Brown, Mountain Top; Asher Brummel, Kingston; Olivia Bryden, Wyoming; Carter Buerger, Shickshinny; Olivia Bullock, Hughesville; Isabella Burge, Nanticoke; Caidence Burgette-Shovlin, Wilkes Barre; Chloe Butler, Wilkes Barre; Caitlin Caffrey, Wilkes Barre; Madalyn Calvey, Pittston; Wesley Cameron, Nescopeck; Sanai Canada, Wilkes Barre; Melissa Candelario, McAdoo; Axel Carias, Wilkes Barre; Robert Carroll, West Pittston; Kaylee Carver, Shavertown; Kailea Cerene-Adkins, Berwick; Abigail Chalawich, Plymouth; Aidyn Chapin, Bloomsburg; Tess Chesnet, Benton; Michael Chianese, Nanticoke; Brittney Chisolm, Wilkes Barre; Ruby Christian, Elysburg; Crystal Cino, Benton; Marcus Claflin, Moosic; Darren Clarke, Plains; Kaitlyn Cleary, Edwardsville; Cassidy Clymo, Mountain Top; Branden Cobb, Scranton; Justin Cognetti, Scranton; Vincent Colatosti, Hunlock Creek; Tyler Collins, Stroudsburg; Laisha Corporan, Sugarloaf; Ardith Corter, Hudson; George Cottell, Clarks Summit; Kairi Craft, Hanover Twp; Megan Cragle, Mountain Top; Lyndsay Cruikshank, Wilkes Barre; Daniel Cruz, Wilkes Barre; Nico Cruz, Wilkes Barre; Caitlin Daily, Berwick; Marcus Dalmas, Nanticoke; Devyn Dane, Kingston; Matthew Daniele, Glen Lyon; Kelsey Davis, Bloomsburg; Robert Degroat, Scranton; Osvaldo Del Orbe, Wilkes Barre; Armando Delacruz, Wilkes Barre; Robert Delescavage, Wilkes Barre; Alina Deluca, Moosic; Connor Dempkosky, Mountain Top; Carter Dennis, Mountain Top; Mason Derocco, Hanover Twp; Bethany Derrick, Waymart; Kayleigh Derwin, Mountain Top; Sarina Desantis, Old Forge; Madison Dias, White Haven; Arlene Diaz, Hazleton; Jocaira Diaz-Ramirez, Hazle Township; Kayden Diggs, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Digiacomo, Plains Township; Chloe Dixon, Wyoming; Jayla Dixon, Wilkes Barre; Haniyf Diyn, Drums; Alexandra Dobbins, Milanville; Tyler Dobinski, Hunlock Creek; Julianna Dodge, Mountain Top; Gianna Dominick, Harveys Lake; Patrick Doran, Dallas; Morgan Drauschak, Nescopeck; Skylar Duffy, Wapwallopen; Eileen Echavarria Diaz, Wilkes Barre; Ashley Ellett, Carbondale; Dyllan Ernst, Berwick; Jamie Espinal, Hazleton; Fatima Espinal Garcia, Mt Carmel; Luz Estevez Polanco, Hazleton; Noah Everett, Mountain Top; Anthony Familia, Hazleton; Paula Fenton, McAdoo; Sheisy Fernandez Marmol, Wilkes Barre; Michelle Ferrantino, Wilkes Barre; Matthew Ferretti, Shavertown; Nagge Fleming, Wilkes Barre; Lilyanna Florek, Wilkes Barre; Arianna Flores, West Hazleton; Zoey Force, Nescopeck; Cheryl Fry, Danville; Scarlett Furedi, Wapwallopen; Chase Galella, Mountain Top; Brian Gallagher, Scranton; Jerrell Gans, Pittston; Vivian Garrido, Scranton; Benjamin Gearhart, Bloomsburg; Shawn Gerhard, West Hazleton; Matthew Gillette, Dallas; Gwendolyn Glassic, Mountain Top; Casimir Glaude, Kingston; Arionna Glushefski, Nanticoke; Maximus Godin, Mt Carmel; Giovanni Gonzalez, Wilkes Barre; Joshua Gonzalez, Wilkes Barre; Sally Ann Gorgas, Nanticoke; Martin Gorka, Mountain Top; Dorothy Goss, Yatesville; James Grady, Hanover Twp; Cassidy Gray, Hunlock Creek; Kennedy Gregory, Danville; Cassidy Grimes, Coal Township; Genesis Guaman Pillaga, Wilkes Barre; Hennessy Guerra, Frackville; Suzanne Gurley, Duryea; Hannah Guydosh, Nanticoke; Aleysha Hache Anderson, Hanover Twp; Alexander Halford, Pottsville; Beth Haller, Peckville; Murdina Harley, Nanticoke; Craig Harris, Hanover Twp; Shanae Harris, Ashley; Shaylen Harris, Kingston; Christian Hart, Hazle Township; Jeremy Hart, Mountain Top; Robert Haydock, Nanticoke; Kathryn Healey, Wyoming; Sara Healey, Mt Carmel; Emily Heffner, Kingston; Janelle Heller, Sunbury; Adrian Hernandez, Wilkes Barre; Angie Hernandez, Wilkes Barre; Gladynette Hernandez, Kingston; Eddy Hernandez de la Cruz, Kingston; Diana Hernandez-Huesca, Hazleton; Marina Hitchcock, Gouldsboro; Truong Ho, Mountain Top; Melissa Hobbs, Luzerne; Mackenzie Hodakowski, Dallas; Karlie Holena, Harveys Lake; Mary Hood, Pittston; Jessica Hornberger, Mt Carmel; Ashton Hozempa, Swoyersville; Yixuan Huang, Mountain Top; Jorge Huapaya, Hanover Twp; Adison Huber, Mountain Top; Guadalupe Huertero, Wilkes Barre; Kaelyn Huff, Wilkes Barre; Jahsilynn Hunsinger, Berwick; Hailey Husted, Nanticoke; Gianna Ianniccari, Shavertown; Emma Inns, Elysburg; Gabriella Jacoby, Shamokin; Gilbert Jaime Almanzar, Wilkes Barre; Rakey Jallow, Kingston; Tiya Jayne, Plymouth; Ella Jenkins, Harveys Lake; Brady Johnson, Mountain Top; Jeri Jones, Selinsgrove; Lenny Jones, Hunlock Creek; Jessica Joseph, Dallas; John Joseph, Mountain Top; Emily Josselyn, Scranton; Farida Kafaba, Wilkes Barre; Olivia Kamionka, Shickshinny; Adam Kayrish, Wilkes Barre; Thomas Kelly, Bear Creek Township; Kameron Kendricks, Wilkes Barre; Jade Kenner, Mountain Top; Makayla Kervick, Mocanaqua; Lauren Kijek, Nanticoke; Hope Kline, Mountain Top; Lauren Koch, Danville; Frank Kocher, Dallas; Shawn Kohl-Laurin, Mocanaqua; Alyssa Kolet, Wilkes Barre; Peyton Koons, Mountain Top; Zachary Koons, Mountain Top; Ian Kopczynski, Shavertown; Joseph Kopko, White Haven; Emily Kosciuk, Lake Ariel; Nicholas Kosek Jr, Shickshinny; Harley Kostanesky, Freeland; Brittanianne Kotula, Kingston; Mollie Kozich, Mountain Top; Kaitlyn Kozlowski, Pittston; Logan Krackenfels, Wilkes Barre; Michael Krakowski, Kingston; Megan Kraynak, Bloomsburg; Lily Kress, Elmhurst; Jacob Krulick, Exeter; Chase Kubis, Swedesboro; Jacob Kubricki, Wapwallopen; Alana Kucuk, Mountain Top; Kelsey Kulak, Mountain Top; Michael Kuna, Shavertown; Sejal Lamsal, Williamsport; Edward Langdon, Wilkes Barre; Brennan Latsch, Drums; Ava Leitner, Drums; Alyssa Lenzer, Taylor; Emily Letoski, Exeter; Larry Little, Mountain Top; Daeisha Luciano, Wilkes Barre; Robert Lucks, Dallas; Victoria Luna, Plains; Monica Mackie, Scranton; Zackary Maira, Exeter; Madison Mall, Mifflinville; Anthony Mandoza, Wilkes Barre; Christiann Mann, Greeley; Ariel Marich, Wyoming; Eugene Marriggi, Duryea; Spencer Martinez, Hanover Twp; Wilfredo Martinez, Berwick; Tucker Maskalis, Dallas; Neil Massaker, Forty-Fort; Claudio Mateos, Mountain Top; Cassandra Mateyak, Sugarloaf; Christine Matias, Kingston; Jaegar Maurer, Shamokin; Rubi McCann, Nanticoke; Jennifer McDowell, Paxinos; Jason McKeown, Wilkes Barre; Nathan Meigs, Nanticoke; Florentino Mejia, Wilkes Barre; Isamar Mena, Wilkes Barre; Cassie Miller, Turbotville; Gabriel Miller, Hazleton; Tracy Mills, Avoca; Limeylin Minaya, Wilkes Barre; Hailey Mizell, Hanover Twp; Brady Mizenko, Sugarloaf; Adam Molick, Berwick; Richard Molina, West Hazleton; Yeimi Molina Del Cid, Dickson City; Olivia Monska, Nanticoke; Emil Morales Murray, Hazleton; Nancy Morris, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Moza, Tunkhannock; Arowyn Mulhearn, White Haven; Brooke Mulhern, Duryea; Shantelle Mullins, Bloomsburg; Collin Murphy, Courtdale; Landon Musser, Mt Carmel; Sarah Muzzy, Forty-Fort; Paige Nastawa, Wilkes Barre; Aubrey Netherton, Athens; Jorge Nieves, Hazleton; Kira Nieves, Wilkes Barre; Dolariste Nkigoum, Danville; Amanda O'Day, Wyoming; Vegan O'Donnell, Dallas; Hayley Ohl, Berwick; Luke Olenchak, Moscow; Michael Oliveri, Pittston; Jesse Olver, Milanville; Osaruyi Omigie, Old Forge; Kimberly Onofre-Aragon, Wilkes Barre; Remus Orion, West Pittston; Euridicis Ortiz, Freeland; Daniella Ospina, Hazleton; Alexi Ostroski, Pringle; Edward Ovalle Paulino, Wilkes Barre; Molly Pancher, Coal Township; Hugo Panecatl-Tepo, Hanover Twp; Elizabeth Parker, Selinsgrove; Jacob Parker, Mountain Top; Jacob Parker, Mountain Top; Dayshawn Pate, Wilkes Barre; Angel Patel, Mt Carmel; Vraj Patel, Scranton; Marilex Paulino Perez, Hazleton; Deven Paulson, Mountain Top; Grace Pawlukovich, Wilkes Barre; Jonathan Pena-Arias, Wilkes Barre; Jeffrey Perez, Hazleton; Jenny Perez, Swoyersville; Vidalina Perez, Shamokin; Michael Perlock, Swoyersville; Caitlin Petrey, Mountain Top; Ryan Pierce, Sunbury; Derek Pinterich, Berwick; Jordan Porasky, Dallas; Matthew Preiman, Kingston; Joshua Punchak, Wilkes Barre; Dylan Purta, White Haven; Alley Quinn, Warrior Run; Keirstyn Radzwich, Sugarloaf; Kristina Ramos, Ashley; Brody Reahm, Moscow; Carlee Reardon, Dallas; Madyson Redmond, Dallas; Sebastian Reinoso Martinez, West Hazleton; Cindy Rey, Hazleton; Mario Reyes, Wilkes Barre; Yoselyn Reyes, Hazleton; Kadence Rhone, Orangeville; Marsha Richard, Kingston; Cade Riddle, Nescopeck; Carlton Riggins, Mountain Top; Eric Rinehimer, Mountain Top; Richard Rinish, Wilkes Barre; Samuel Rodriguez, Mountain Top; Almelis Rodriguez Morillo, Wilkes Barre; Ramona Rodriguez Reynoso, Hazleton; Dominic Rodzinak, Plains; Quaasia Rose, Wilkes Barre; Jaeson Ross, Nanticoke; Jayson Rowlands, Wapwallopen; Ella Russell, Mountain Top; Kelsey Ryan, Hanover Twp; Bryant Saldivar, Wilkes Barre; Kaeli Samuel, Shavertown; Sebastian Sanchez, Wilkes Barre; Arzoo Sarfaraz, Nanticoke; Chelsea Saullo, Hazle Township; Karina Savitska, Plymouth; James Savner, Mountain Top; Abigail Schagen, Drums; Madison Schott, Pittston; Isaac Schraeder, Shickshinny; Elena Schwartz, Bloomsburg; Emmett Seyer, Mountain Top; Kareem Shabazz, Wilkes Barre; Derek Shemanski, Nanticoke; Isabella Sherrick, Forty-Fort; Niashia Sherry, Wilkes Barre; Rebecca Shiner, Shavertown; Haylee Shotwell, Nanticoke; Ty Sica, Wilkes Barre; Willow Siecko, Berwick; Addison Sipler, Harveys Lake; Charles Sleyo III, Dallas; Jacqueline Smith-Veney, Pittston; Jessica Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Kelvin Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Sotack, Wilkes Barre; Daniella Soto, Trucksville; Aedan Spillane, Berwick; Kaitlyn Spitler, Shenandoah; Noah St Clair, Swoyersville; Michael Stachowiak, Nanticoke; Jacqueline Stalica, Scott Township; Delainey Starr, Bloomsburg; Sydney Startzel, Shamokin; Zachary Stavish, Mountain Top; Jeffrey Stec Jr, Mountain Top; Caleb Stephens, Trucksville; Allison Sterner, Bloomsburg; Johnathan Steve, Shavertown; Ella Stever, Mt Carmel; Kara Stoltzfus, Wilkes Barre; Michelle Stoltzfus, Northumberland; Adora Stroud, Sweet Valley; Blake Strunk, Shickshinny; Matthew Sturgill, Courtdale; Tyler Suiters, Wilkes Barre; Lauren Sweet, Glen Lyon; Isabella Swire, Drums; Alyssa Tanner, Hazle Township; Angela Taveras, Hazleton; Renny Taveras, Wilkes Barre; John Taylor, Wilkes Barre; Arman Tejani, Kingston; Gavin Thomas, Sugar Notch; Nickolas Thompson, Wilkes Barre; Thomas Thompson, Mountain Top; Ava Thurber, Cranston; Jadon Tlatenchi, Wilkes Barre; Jessica Tocket, Kingston; Sophia Tomek, Mountain Top; Alaina Tomko, Wilkes Barre; Emilio Torres, Hazle Township; Alyssa Trout, Wilkes Barre; Matthew Turner, Mifflinville; Elizabeth Tyson, Danville; Autumn Umbriac, Freeland; Daisy Urbaez-Rivera, Hazleton; Maria Vallejo, Kingston; Caroline Vargas-Morataya, Plains; Melody Vasquez, Hazleton; Marialis Vasquez Almonte, Duryea; Brenda Velasquez, Meshoppen; Jessica Veras, Wilkes Barre; Lukas Volpetti, Pittston; Logan Wagner, Williamsport; Mia Wagner, Sunbury; Taylor Walton, Mayfield; Cheyenne Wang, McAdoo; Carter Wanyo, Mountain Top; Owen Weaver, Weatherly; Abigail Wehner, White Haven; Jessica Wesolowski, Avoca; Emma Wheeler, Sugar Notch; Olivia Whitmire, Bloomsburg; Karlene Wiehe, Catawissa; Jayden Williams, Nescopeck; Meghan Williams, Scranton; Ava Willis, Warrior Run; Wayne Wolfe, Pittston; Madelyn Wynn, Archbald; Tyler Yohn, Bloomsburg; Valeri Yoniris Delacruz Duran, Wilkes Barre; James Young, Wilkes Barre; Helena Zadeh, Springbrook Township; Andrea Zaloga, Berwick; Michael Zamonas, Weston; Zakary Zanella, Paxinos.
Honor's List
Nicole Acevedo Padilla, Hazleton; Dolfi Acosta, Hazle Township; Basma Al-Salem, West Pittston; Christopher Alba, Wilkes Barre; Delwis Almanzar, Hazleton; Scott Audia, Hanover Twp; Jayden Austin, Upper Marlboro; Eric Barber, Pittston; Laxmi Basnet, Dunmore; Ethan Benson, Kingston; Laniez Betances, Wilkes Barre; Saniga Biju, Wilkes Barre; Tammy Bozek, Pittston; Julia Brandenburg, Wilkes Barre; Taylor Brennan, Hunlock Creek; Jayden Brinzo, Plymouth; Shakeerah Brown, Larksville; Carlos Buestan, Wilkes Barre; Sienna Bullock, Coal Township; Ornika Byron, Wilkes Barre; Richard Carey, Wilkes Barre; Ciara Casper, Rocky Point; Briony Castellanos, Shohola; Yeremin Castillo Santana, Hazleton; Lynnette Cespedes, Hazleton; Jackie Colosimo, Catawissa; Darlin Comas, Hazleton; Alexandria Comly, Shamokin; Maria Concepcion de Castillo, West Hazleton; Ryan Conklin, Wapwallopen; Brady Cook, Mountain Top; Leslie Corporan, Sugarloaf; Rosely Cruz Rodriguez, Wilkes Barre; Christopher Cutcher, Kingston; Kelly Czankner, Dunmore; Morgan Davies, Nanticoke; Sean Davis, Dallas; Andy De Jesus, Hazleton; Arianna De La Cruz Rodriguez, Hazleton; Raul De la Rosa, Hazleton; Jordayn Dermody, Swoyersville; Leah Marie Di Maria, Hazleton; Izabela Duda, Mt Carmel; Jamie Duran, Wilkes Barre; Melvin Egbeto, Wilkes Barre; Reagan Elio, Shamokin; Brynley Evans, Berwick; Addix Eyerly, Freeland; Julie Ezzyk, Berwick; Angelina Ferdinand-Joseph, Wilkes Barre; Emely Fernandez, Hazleton; Bryan Ferreira, Hazleton; Trinity Fithian, Wilkes Barre; Connor Foster, Walnutport; Milkin Franco, Wilkes Barre; Robyn Gaeta, Barnesville; Olivia Garbush, Exeter; Kelsi Gardner, Honesdale; Sydney Gebhardt, Catasauqua; Damarcus George, Effort; Paimah Gogbeh, Berwick; Anthony Gomez, Berwick; Andrew Goodrich, Dallas; Elisa Grant, Trevorton; Andrew Greblunas, Dallas; Christian Groza, Mountain Top; Dannellsy Guillen Ortiz, Freeland; Patrick Guyer II, Northumberland; Joshua Hardy, Shavertown; Danielle Harris, Scranton; Janine Hawkins, Mt Carmel; Abigail Hernandez, Wilkes Barre; Daliris Herrera, Luzerne; Owen Hickey, Shamokin; Abigail Hoban, Pittston; Louis Holbeck, Scranton; Caden Holtsmaster, Kingsley; Adam Hoover, Dallas; Mackenzie Huffer, Macungie; Mara Hughes, Scranton; Raheem Humes, Plymouth; Lori Ianneillo, Orangeville; Elis Isliam, Hazleton; Renee Jackson, Kingston; Zachary Jaskulka, Swoyersville; Samantha Jimenez, Wilkes Barre; Dwayne Johnson, Wilkes Barre; Trinity Johnson, Forty-Fort; Aiden Kieffer, Berwick; Jayden Klepar, Wilkes Barre; Grayson Koons, Mountain Top; Addison Kubasti, Shickshinny; Alisa Kuhar, Forty-Fort; Barry Mahoney, Bloomsburg; Samantha Maldonado, Wilkes Barre; Gianna Malt, Berwick; Giavanna Mangione, Pittston; Karl Marcellus, Mahanoy City; Gianna Marranca, Pittston; Franchelys Marte, West Hazleton; Daniel Martinez, Nanticoke; Elizabeth Martinez, Berwick; Justin McCue, Mountain Top; Egypt McLeod, Wilkes Barre; Joshua Mease, Dupont; Maria Medina, Hazleton; Danielle Menotti, Equinunk; Zakary Mikolosko, Dallas; Aysia Miller-Wansel, Kingston; Yessenia Minaya, Kingston; Jacob Missal, Kingston; Wendy Molina, Wilkes Barre; Michael Moran, White Haven; Eninson Moran Perez, Hazle Township; Michelle Morocho, Edwardsville; Valentine Mourne, Wyoming; Nathan Mullin, Nanticoke; Natalie Mullins, Shickshinny; Chelsea Musko, Plains; Joseph Nelson, Wyoming; Milena Oberle, Sparta; James Ogle, Shamokin; Ashley Ortega, Nanticoke; Sintia Paniagua, Wilkes Barre; Maya Parker, Centreville; Jenny Pena, Berwick; Melina Pena, Nanticoke; Emma Perrins, Nanticoke; George Pichardo, Hazleton; Madison Porasky, Dallas; Zeudi-Gaye Pryce, Sunbury; Leah Quintero, Taylor; Juleysi Rafael, Wilkes Barre; Sujata Rai, Scranton; Michael Ralston, Hanover Twp; Christopher Ramnarine, Wilkes Barre; Jason Rattigan II, Wilkes Barre; Robert Redmond, Dallas; Zander Remakus, Luzerne; Elijah Rempel, Mt Carmel; Rafayra Reyes, West Hazleton; Andrew Richards, Mountain Top; Jessica Richmond, Wilkes Barre; Leah Roberts, Mountain Top; Leilanni Rodriguez, Wilkes Barre; Stephen Roeder, Bloomsburg; Kaylie Rollman, Shavertown; Whitney Ruiz, Wilkes Barre; Aiden Safriwe, Wilkes Barre; Aliyah Samkough, Larksville; Isis Shaver, Kingston; Hosanna Showalter, Danville; Vonetta Simmons, Plymouth; Auston Simonson, Shickshinny; Madison Sinclair, Wapwallopen; Katrina Skinner, Hanover Twp; Markeez Smith, Hanover Twp; Samantha Snyder, Shickshinny; Nicola Stancato, Drums; Cheyenne Straub, Mountain Top; Desiree Stynes, Pittston; Michael Swick, Mountain Top; Alina Szabo, Hunlock Creek; Amanda Tarboro, Kulpmont; Jaysen Thomas, Pringle; Michael Tkach, Pittston; Brittney Travelpiece, Catawissa; Merylin Tyrrell, Shavertown; Orlando Ulloa Benitez, Hazleton; Mary Jude Ulmer, Carbondale; Matthew Urban, Wapwallopen; Estefany Veras, Wilkes Barre; Ashley Vicchitto, Swoyersville; Louvenca Volny, Edwardsville; Leonardo Vona, Baldwinsville; Jasmen Watt, Plymouth; Jaila Watts, Dunmore; Liam Webber, East Stroudsburg; Emily Williams, Pittston; Keira Wombacker, Hanover Twp; Brittney Wood, Hudson; Penelope Youells, Shavertown; Audrey Yuhas, Peckville; Sarah Zaremba, Hunlock Creek.
President's List
Maria Aliaga Maldonado, Ashley; Nicholas Aloisio, Sunbury; Christofer Andeliz Martinez, Wilkes Barre; Silvia Nicol Angeles, Hazleton; Jenalize Arizmendi, Mountain Top; Tafarie Ashraf, Edwardsville; Grace Barbuti, Old Forge; Ciaran Bilbow, Avoca; Chase Biller, Hunlock Creek; Joshua Blitzer, Scranton; Jake Bonin, West Wyoming; Aidan Bonner, McAdoo; Alexis Bowman, Jenkins Twp; Hannah Brennan, Shickshinny; Paiton Burgess, Herndon; Angel Burgos Izquierdo, Wilkes Barre; Chavely Calderon Bodre, Hazleton; Matthew Callavini, Hazle Township; Christian Cambridge, Nanticoke; Shecid Canizares, Hazleton; Katelyne Carmichael, Wapwallopen; Rene Caruso, Larksville; Aleigha Casey, Kingston; Joanna Chen, Paxinos; Luke Cizewski, Bloomsburg; Avery Cole, Plymouth; James Coursen, Scranton; Eddie Cruz, Hanover Twp; Sophia Cyphert, Mountain Top; Ingrid Da Silva, Wilkes Barre; Peyton David, Harveys Lake; Drew Delucca, Pittston; Samantha Dempsey, Waverly Township; Antonio Denardi, Harding; Emily Derr, Shamokin; Magnus Dipasquale, Wilkes Barre; Mattingly Divers, Mountain Top; Juliana Dobbins, Milanville; Keira Dougherty, Mountain Top; Delaney Dufresne, Wyoming; Jason Dufresne, Wyoming; Willa Dumond, Shickshinny; Alexandria Dunnion, Scranton; Robert Eby, Coal Township; Stacy Edwards, Larksville; Kaley Ellard, Plymouth; Braylon Feese, Catawissa; Lidia Feinen, Catawissa; Joseph Flores Reyes, Kingston; Brandan Fontaine, Nanticoke; Hannah Fourspring, Mt Carmel; Colbey Gallagher, Mountain Top; Aimee Garcia, Mountain Top; Jenina Garruba, Wilkes Barre; Gerald Gerrity, Hunlock Creek; Bradley Gill, Swoyersville; Emely Gomez, Hazleton; Grace Goodrich, Hanover Twp; Grace Gownley, Mt Carmel; Maggie Gownley, Mt Carmel; Madison Groff, Exeter; Karlie Gustinucci, Plains; Dylan Haggerty, Kulpmont; Madilyn Heckman, Forty-Fort; Robert Hinkle, Weatherly; Christian Holmes-Daniels, West Pittston; Amanda Horton, Hazle Township; Danae Howie, Plymouth; Brianna Hoyer, Newfoundland; Travis Hummel, Plains; Samuel Hunts, Shickshinny; Trevor Inman, Mountain Top; Shamecca Irving, Plymouth; Logan Jasnoski, Mountain Top; Emily Jones, Wapwallopen; Reese Kaczmarczyk, Nanticoke; Emma Kairo, Mountain Top; Danica Karlick, Freeland; Austin Kimelewski, Larksville; Douglas Kizzie, West Pittston; Ashley Knorr, Berwick; Maura Kosek, Pittston; Alia Kotarsky, Wapwallopen; Katherine Kozich, Mountain Top; Kenzlie Kuderka, Dallas; Carolina Lantigua Castillo, Wilkes Barre; Jillian Laskoski, Mountain Top; Talia Lasota, Kingston; Skylar Lee, Wilkes Barre; Kristen Lello, Avoca; John Long, Pittston; Olivia Lubinski, Mt Carmel; Lisa Markley, Northumberland; Yasmelis Marte, Hazleton; Ryan Martin, Falls; Osiyah McRae, Kingston; Cynthia Meyers, Wapwallopen; Rebecca Miller, Williamsport; Kristi Morrissey, Roaring Brook; Michael Mowery, Stillwater; Mary Murphy, Wilkes Barre; Emma Murtha, Mountain Top; Milagros Navarro Perdomo, Wilkes Barre; Benjamin Nicholas, Olyphant; Zachary Nolan, Avoca; Kaylee Novak, Edwardsville; Kyla Obrien, Dallas; Madison Odonnell, Mountain Top; Samantha Pallay, Shavertown; Alexis Panzik, Mountain Top; Elena Peterson, Bloomsburg; Louis Pierce, Scranton; Jennifer Pilarcik, Wyoming; Elizabeth Pintsch, Wilkes Barre; Avery Pisano, Mountain Top; Jonathan Plungis, Saint Clair; Melody Powell, Shamokin; Gabriella Ramos, Carbondale; Caileigh Reilly, Nanticoke; Taylar Richards, Wilkes Barre; Kayla Ringer, Berwick; Isabel Robbins, Drums; Esthefany Rodriguez Luna, West Hazleton; Abigail Roe, Larksville; Sarah Roman, Nanticoke; Kyla Romanoski, Mountain Top; Douglas Rosick, Glen Lyon; Kevin Ryan, Harveys Lake; Jacob Sachleben, Girardville; Randy Salichez Rodriguez, Hazleton; Leslie Sanchez, Forty-Fort; Willy Sanchez, Wilkes Barre; Arisleidy Santos Morillo, Hazleton; Allison Sarisky, Marion Heights; Amanda Schoch, White Haven; Brooke Schoppy, Kulpmont; Olivia Schwartz, Larksville; Malka Seliger, Kingston; Priya Shah, Mountain Top; Maya Shakfa, Mountain Top; Brian Sharkey, Scranton; John Shelley, Hughestown; Joshua Siguenza, Duryea; Cristian Silfa, Hazleton; Nathan Simpson, Mountain Top; Serenity Simpson, Wilkes Barre; Elizabeth Sodergen, Mountain Top; Antonio Solis, Mocanaqua; Emerson Sorber, Harveys Lake; Yamilet Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Glenn Stackhouse, Bloomsburg; Azim Stash, Plains; Tiffany Staskiel, Pittston; Anna Stibick, Mountain Top; Camron Svetz, Nanticoke; Zoe Taylor, Catasauqua; Leslie Tlatenchi, Wilkes Barre; Kaitlyn Travis, Pittston; Alyssa Trefsger, Kulpmont; Kailash Velazquez, Wilkes Barre; Gabrielle Venna, Kulpmont; Gianna Venna, Kulpmont; Ashley Vidal, Shamokin; Amber Wallace, West Pittston; Regan Wanchisen, Mountain Top; Robert Welch, Berwick; Sydney Werger, White Haven; Alexandra Wesolowski, Avoca; Arjun Williams, Orefield; Tamara Williams, Nicholson; Vanessa Williams, Nescopeck; Nicholas Wilson, Wilkes Barre; Josh Woodworth, West Wyoming; Jacob Zelenak, West Pittston; Risherly Zorrilla, Hazleton.
天美传媒 May Mission Minute
At 天美传媒, our mission comes to life every day through the success and dedication of our students and faculty.*
This month, we celebrated that mission in powerful ways across campus. EDFest returned, showcasing the talent of our Communication Arts students through design, photography, music, and multimedia?highlighting hands-on learning and creative innovation.
In our Health Sciences programs, we honored the Class of 2026 in Respiratory Therapy, Dental Hygiene, and Nursing through pinning ceremonies, marking their transition into essential healthcare professionals serving our region.
We also celebrated the achievements of more than 500 graduates at Commencement, a milestone moment recognizing academic excellence across all disciplines.
Beyond the classroom, our commitment to community impact was recognized as the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department received the Outstanding Community Partner Award from Luzerne County Head Start.
From creative arts to healthcare to community engagement, these moments reflect who we are?and why our mission matters.
At LCCC, we don?t just educate students. We prepare them to lead, serve, and succeed.
That is this month?s Mission Minute.
天美传媒 Celebrates 58th Commencement Ceremony Honoring Class of 2026
天美传媒 proudly celebrated its 58th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday evening at Mohegan Arena, honoring the academic achievements of the Class of 2026 and marking a milestone moment for 548 graduates and their families.*
The ceremony recognized 548 unduplicated graduates and 558 total credentials awarded, representing students across health sciences, social sciences, technology, business, and skilled and technical trades. Graduates ranged in age from 17 to 64, reflecting the college?s diverse and non-traditional student population.
PRESIDENT YUDICHAK: "YOU ARE THE AUTHORS OF YOUR OWN LIFE STORY"
In his keynote address, President John Yudichak welcomed graduates and families and praised the Class of 2026 for their resilience, determination, and achievement.
"Good evening, 天美传媒 Trailblazers! Congratulations to the 548 members of the Class of 2026," Yudichak said. "It is a very special evening? filled with profound accomplishment, deep appreciation, and aspirational joy about the future you are about to start? right now."
He described the graduating class as a "unique portrait" shaped by perseverance and personal determination.
"Your journey? is painted in your own hand with big, colorful brushstrokes that reflect much more than a personal academic achievement. It reflects the best of who you are? smart, resilient, and determined to succeed."
Reflecting on the college community, he added:
"I see the individual stories of success? I see the friendships made? I see the 558 degrees you have earned? You have made LCCC the largest, most popular college in NEPA."
Closing his remarks, Yudichak encouraged graduates to embrace their future with confidence:
"Success in life may not be linear? but for Trailblazers, success comes to those who dare to earn it. Be bold? dare greatly? dream big? you are the authors of your own life story."
KEYNOTE SPEAKER PENDLETON: "THIS IS WHERE WHAT?S NEXT BEGINS"
Keynote speaker Fanita Y. Pendleton ?91, M.P.A., returned to LCCC 35 years after her own graduation, sharing her journey from non-traditional student to probation officer and magistrate judge.
"Luzerne County Community College was the springboard for my next phase of life," Pendleton said. "What will it be for you?"
She encouraged graduates to reflect on their next steps beyond commencement.
"There are so many directions to go from here? just know that you are at the beginning of ?what?s next.?"
Using a football analogy, she reminded graduates that challenges are part of growth:
"You might have to take a couple of L?s during this next season, but just like football? any given Sunday, your next chapter is out there for you to win."
She concluded by urging graduates to celebrate their achievement:
"You have finished what you started while giving yourself the opportunity to shape your next phase of life. Congratulations, Class of 2026!"
GRADUATE SPEAKER: "THE BATTLE OF ME VS. ME"
Graduate speaker Maria Pia Aliaga Maldonado ?26, A.A.S., delivered a powerful reflection on perseverance and resilience.
"In our time here at LCCC, we faced many obstacles? our biggest enemy was ourselves," she said. "In the battle of me versus me, what choice do I have but to win?"
She credited faculty, family, and friends for support throughout the journey.
"We had mentors in the faculty and staff of this college? and family who never doubted us for a second. Their blind faith and unconditional love fueled us."
Addressing her fellow graduates, she said:
"You have proven yourself to be strong, to be capable, and to be better. You have crossed that finish line? and now face the question of ?what now??"
She closed with a message of belief and perseverance:
"If I am here today, it is because I never, never stopped believing in myself. Congratulations for believing in yourself, Class of 2026."
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AWARDS
The ceremony also included recognition of outstanding graduates through the 天美传媒 Alumni Association:
Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award
Recipient: Madison Mary-Katherine Hayes
Outstanding Adult Learner Graduate Award
Recipient: Tricia Womer
A CELEBRATION OF ACHIEVEMENT
The ceremony concluded with the conferral of degrees and a recessional celebration honoring graduates and their families.
The Class of 2026 now joins nearly 40,000 alumni of 天美传媒, continuing the institution?s legacy of academic excellence and workforce impact across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Grad's List
Claire Abbott, Elysburg; Masiel Abreu, Hazleton; Pamela Abreu-Fernandez, Hazleton; Dinah Abreu-Pimental, Hazleton; Benjamin Ackourey, Dallas; Michael Alba, Wyoming; Amanda Alber, Hanover Twp; Deborah Alexander, Danville; Maria Aliaga Maldonado, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Aloisio, Sunbury; Melissa Alvelo, Ashley; Ryan Andress, Shavertown; Ellie Androvette, Williamsport; Marcellinus Anowai, Peckville; Domenic Antoniello, Benton; Jeremy Aquino, Hazleton; Jaydin Arizmendi, Mountain Top; Tafarie Ashraf, Edwardsville; Amanda Aviles Torres, Wilkes Barre; Michael Ayala, Mountain Top; Kyle Baldeo, Wilkes Barre; Jean Banegas, Wilkes Barre; Mason Barley, Mountain Top; Alexander Barowski, Archbald; Dustin Batista, Hazleton; Kayleigh Baumgartner, Wyoming; Sarah Beishline, Hazleton; Dylan Bell, Luzerne; Zachary Belles, Mountain Top; Roberta Bello, Berwick; Roberta Bello, Berwick; Nicholas Belmonte, Edwardsville; Alyssa Belusko, Hazle Twp; Barbara Bender, Dushore; Joseph Bennett, Larksville; Christa Berrini, Larksville; Skylar Besancon, Wilkes Barre; Cora Bevans, Danville; Ciaran Bilbow, Avoca; Chase Biller, Hunlock Creek; Tatianna Bisono, Larksville; Phina Black, Shickshinny; Joshua Blitzer, Scranton; Michael Bogdon, Larksville; Aidan Bonner, McAdoo; Allison Boyer, Shickshinny; Julia Brandenburg, Wilkes Barre; Yana Brazoban, Ansonia; Saquan Breeden, Wilkes Barre; Yahnique Breeden, Hanover Twp; Hannah Brennan, Shickshinny; Cole Bresnahan, Forty Fort; Jarod Briggs, Edwardsville; Dante Brigido, Plains; Gracie Brodhead, Wilkes Barre Twp; Katelyn Brodhead, Wilkes Barre Twp; April Brogan, Shickshinny; Tavin Brooks, Pittston; Lauren Brown, Montgomery; Lesley Brown, Dallas; Star-Aisa Brown, Edwardsville; Carter Buerger, Shickshinny; Brianna Bullock, Coal Township; Angel Burgos Izquierdo, Wilkes Barre; Benjamin Burke, Hunlock Creek; Krystal Buscemi, Wilkes Barre; Tara Butry, Kingston; Salma Cabral, Hazleton; Cristyn Cabrera, Hazleton; Peyton Calabrese, White Haven; Chavely Calderon Bodre, Hazleton; Monica Callacki, Dalton; Carlita Calmett, Plymouth; Gianna Calovi, Berwick; Christian Cambridge, Nanticoke; Dwight Campbell, Glen Lyon; Heather Campbell, Swoyersville; Lady Campoverde, Wilkes Barre; Nevaeh Canty-Smith, Hanover Twp; Shawn Canty-Smith, Hanover Twp; Richard Carey, Wilkes Barre; Rene Caruso, Larksville; Shirley Carver, Swoyersville; Yenifer Casado, Plymouth; Madison Casey, Mountain Top; Briony Castellanos, Shohola; Logan Charnigo, Freeland; Lindsey Christian, Avoca; Marcus Claflin, Moosic; Benjamin Clark, Tunkhannock; Chelsea Clark, Scranton; Hannah Clark, Pittston; Tanya Clark, Archbald; Kaitlyn Cleary, Edwardsville; Kaitlyn Cleary, Edwardsville; Rebecca Cochran, Abbottstown; Christian Cognigni, Nanticoke; Mitchell Cohen, Dallas; Tyler Collins, Stroudsburg; Maria Concepcion de Castillo, West Hazleton; Talia Condrey, Drums; Jacqueline Congo, Frederick; Zachary Conrad, Berwick; Sabrina Conyers, Wilkes Barre; Ardith Corter, Hudson; George Cottell, Clarks Summit; Curtis Crowe, Hazle Twp; Ciana Cruz, Dallas; Caleb Cumberland, Shickshinny; Clairmanine Curtis, Wilkes Barre; Elizabeth Custer, Berwick; Matthew Daniele, Glen Lyon; Stephanie Davenport, Monroe Twp; Peyton David, Harveys Lake; Alaine Davis, Wilkes Barre; Margaret Davis, Mountain Top; Arianna De La Cruz Rodriguez, Hazleton; Raul De la Rosa, Hazleton; Jhonidward De Vargas Bello, McAdoo; Emine Degirmencioglu, Plains; Esthermy Del Orbe Reynoso, Wilkes Barre; Brianna Delcastillo, Edwardsville; Robert Delescavage, Wilkes Barre; Alina Deluca, Moosic; Drew Delucca, Pittston; Zeynep Demir, Hanover Twp; Connor Dempkosky, Mountain Top; Alyvia Denardi, Harding; Benya Diaz Matos, Wilkes Barre; Haniyf Diyn, Drums; Shelline Duberry, Tobyhanna; Skylar Duffy, Wapwallopen; Caitlin Dushanko, Mountain Top; Raylynn Dyson, New Milford; Eileen Echavarria Diaz, Wilkes Barre; Melvin Egbeto, Wilkes Barre; Ashley Ellett, Carbondale; Cassandra Engel, Williamsport; Kimberly Eppley, Nicholson; Tiffany Eroh, Northumberland; Julliana Esparza, Wapwallopen; Cristidaliz Espiritusanto Sanchez, Pittston; Stephanie Evans, Nanticoke; Christy Fairchild, Saint Johns; Ashley Faux, Kingston; Kilee Favors, Glen Lyon; Dominick Fazzino, Shavertown; Dominick Fazzino, Shavertown; Catelyn Feeney, Pittston; Lidia Feinen, Catawissa; Cora Fenner, Wilkes Barre; Ethan Ferdinand, Sugarloaf; Deby Fernandez Rodriguez, Wilkes Barre; Merrik Ferron, Scranton; Ashley Ferry, Mountain Top; Lidia Fetfatzes, Scott Twp; Evan Finn, Mountain Top; Barbara Firestone, Throop; Ryan Fisher, Nanticoke; Trinity Fithian, Wilkes Barre; Esmailen Florentino Mercado, Nanticoke; Brandan Fontaine, Nanticoke; Morgan Ford, Berwick; Connor Foster, Walnutport; David Furcal, Mountain Top; Spencer Gabriele, Trucksville; Brian Gallagher, Scranton; Hailey Garafola, Scranton; Aimee Garcia, Mountain Top; Juan Gaskins, Kingston; Sydney Gebhardt, Catasauqua; Yamilex Genao Castillo, Downingtown; Aspen Gennaria, Bloomsburg; William George, Dallas; Jackson Giordano, Swoyersville; Anthony Gomez, Berwick; Emely Gomez, Hazleton; Keliel Gonzalez, Hanover Twp; Yanitsa Gonzalez, Wilkes Barre Twp; Andrew Goodrich, Dallas; Mackenzie Goyne, Exeter; James Grady, Hanover Twp; Rebecca Graves, Hazleton; Tanner Greco, Mt Carmel; Raven Griffiths, Clarks Summit; Nathan Grisom, Nescopeck; Erica Gritzen, Swoyersville; Madison Groff, Exeter; Cameron Gruden, Plains Twp; Suzanne Gurley, Duryea; Enmanuel Guzman, Drums; Natka Habibi, Kingston; Annika Hahn, Sugarloaf; Chadwick Haines Jr, Nanticoke; Sarah Hallberg, Pittston; Sarah Hampton, Hanover Twp; Thomas Hannon, Wilkes Barre; Elaine Haraschak, Berwick; Danielle Harris, Hanover Twp; Jeremy Hart, Mountain Top; Rachel Harvilchuck, Brackney; Shayne Hawk, Mountain Top; Madison Hayes, Mountain Top; Madilyn Heckman, Forty Fort; Isabel Henicheck, Drums; Emma Herman, Larksville; Gladynette Hernandez, Kingston; Gladynette Hernandez, Kingston; Eddy Hernandez de la Cruz, Kingston; Tiffany Herr, Elysburg; Marina Hitchcock, Gouldsboro; Amanda Hladasz, White Haven; Melissa Hobbs, Luzerne; Ashley Hofstede, Honesdale; Patricia Hoger, Waymart; Louis Holbeck, Scranton; Christian Holmes-Daniels, West Pittston; Caden Holtsmaster, Kingsley; Danae Howie, Plymouth; Michelle Hryvniak, Charlotte; Jorge Huapaya, Hanover Twp; Raheem Humes, Plymouth; Caden Hummer, Hanover Twp; Miles Hunter, Plymouth; Kimberly Hylton, Orwigsburg; Lori Ianneillo, Orangeville; Trevor Inman, Mountain Top; Megan Insinga, Kingston; Taiesha Irizarry, Wilkes Barre; Mariam Iukuridze, Hanover; Laura Jackloski, Wyoming; Renee Jackson, Kingston; Emily Jacobus, Shohola; Angie James, Plymouth; Logan Jasnoski, Mountain Top; Andrew Jimenez, Wilkes Barre; Saul Jimenez, Hazleton; Lindsey Jones, Millville; Amber Joseph, Blakely; Devin Kantz, Wilkes Barre; Kristian Keefer, Lewisburg; Bobbi Mae Kelder, Springville; Cheryl Kerlavage, Drums; Austin Kimelewski, Mehoopany; Mya Kirton, Pittston; Gavin Kishbaugh, Shickshinny; Jody Kiwak, Swoyersville; Hannah Kline, Dallas; Amber Kocher, Harveys Lake; Frank Kocher, Dallas; Shawn Kohl-Laurin, Mocanaqua; Jessica Kolbush, McAdoo; Andrew Koonrad, Wilkes Barre; Rebecca Koons, Shavertown; Ian Kopczynski, Shavertown; Joseph Kopko, White Haven; Eden Koprowski, Dupont; Nicholas Kosek Jr, Shickshinny; Harley Kostanesky, Freeland; Brittanianne Kotula, Kingston; John Kovach III, Plymouth; Crystal Kozick, Hudson; Odessa Kramer, Northumberland; Jacob Kubricki, Wapwallopen; Alisa Kuhar, Wilkes Barre; Kelsey Kulak, Mountain Top; Kelsey Kulak, Mountain Top; Summer Kuratle, Bloomsburg; Joao Lacerda Christino, Dallas; Shannon Lai, Laurel Run; Patrick Lakkis, Mountain Top; Carolina Lantigua Castillo, Wilkes Barre; GiaNina Larson, Wyoming; Talia Lasota, Kingston; Jessie Learn, Catawissa; Dajuana Lee, Kingston; Jenna Lemons, Middletown; Erica Leonard, Sunbury; Vanessa Leonard, Kingston; Pamela Lewis, Wilkes Barre; Alex Lian, Dallas; Bernadette Lieback, Pittston; Kalie Lindbuchler, Harveys Lake; Eidylanea Listina Sanchez de Adames, Avoca; Kevin Lloyd, Kingston; Corbin Lockhart, Mountain Top; Anissa Lockwitch, Wilkes Barre; John Long, Pittston; Daeisha Luciano, Wilkes Barre; Lauren Mackey, Dallas; Monica Mackie, Scranton; Samantha Manjone, Nesquehoning; Salvatore Mansi, West Pittston; Karl Marcellus, Mahanoy City; Ryan Martin, Falls; Franco Martinez Charamello, Hughestown; Maria Marx, Drums; Neil Massaker, Kingston; Anastasia Matatics, Scranton; Lisa Mather, Montrose; Christine Matias, Kingston; Asael Matos, Hazleton; Lauren Mazzarella, Wilkes Barre; Stephanie McCauley, Kingston; Tammy McCauley, Wilkes Barre; Sean McCoy, Wilkes Barre; Quinn McCracken, Bloomsburg; Justin McCue, Mountain Top; Brynne McGoff, Pittston; Audra McGrady, Plains; Jason McKeown, Wilkes Barre; Isabella McLaughlin, Jefferson Twp; Egypt McLeod, Wilkes Barre; Osiyah McRae, Kingston; Joshua Mease, Dupont; Victor Medina Cruz, Hanover Twp; Danielle Menotti, Equinunk; Kendra Mensch, Orangeville; Emily Mestlin, Ranshaw; Jill Mestlin, Ranshaw; Brandon Miller, Danville; Gabriel Miller, Hazleton; Shelby Miller, Muncy; Micheal Millett, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Milz, Tunkhannock; Devin Minich, Dallas; Euris Minyetty, Hazleton; Charity Miscavage, Shamokin; Michelle Mohyla, Factoryville; Adam Molick, Berwick; Yeimi Molina Del Cid, Dickson City; Begyan Mongar, Scranton; Kailey Moore, Milford; Taneshia Moore, Kingston; Jeannat Moquete Suero, Wilkes Barre; Evelin Morales, Wilkes Barre; Emil Morales Murray, Hazleton; Michael Moran, White Haven; Bryan Moreno, Kingston; Silas Moreno, Ashley; Mackeenan Morgan, Anchorage; Gabriela Morillo Frias, Hazleton; Valentine Mourne, Wyoming; Michael Mowery, Stillwater; Nicholas Moza, Tunkhannock; Jordyn Mozeleski, Hanover Twp; Nicholas Mros, Wilkes Barre; Jessica Mullins, Shickshinny; Nicole Nardozzi-Cosimo, Larksville; Paige Nastawa, Wilkes Barre; Emilee Naus, Nescopeck; Connor Nealon, Mountain Top; Benjamin Nicholas, Olyphant; Richard Norris, West Milton; Tyler Nowakowski, Duryea; Miquan Nowell, Wyoming; Alan Nunez, Hazleton; Amanda O'Day, Wyoming; Vegan O'Donnell, Dallas; Jeffrey O'Neill, Scranton; Levi Oakley, Berwick; James Ogle, Shamokin; Sydney Ogle, Kingston; Hayley Ohl, Berwick; Jesse Olver, Milanville; Osaruyi Omigie, Old Forge; Christine Ondish, Mountain Top; Karen Ortiz, Hazleton; Krista Oshinski, Mountain Top; Kayla Otero, Wilkes Barre; Edward Ovalle Paulino, Wilkes Barre; Dionicio Pacheco, Ashley; Steven Padula, Peckville; Samantha Pallay, Shavertown; Elizabeth Parker, Selinsgrove; Jacob Parker, Shavertown; Christopher Parra, Wilkes Barre; Rosalyn Partington, Wilkes Barre; Gena Pascucci, West Pittston; Hiren Patel, Hazleton; Nicholas Patton, Drums; Adrian Pena, McAdoo; Melina Pena, Nanticoke; Jonathan Pena-Arias, Wilkes Barre; Wenyulie Peralta, West Hazleton; Tanya Pereira, Berwick; Danna Perez Vasquez, Luzerne; Sarah Perkins, Shickshinny; Joshua Petrey, Mountain Top; Stephen Plaza, Wilkes Barre; Christopher Pohl, Orangeville; Karolyn Polanco Gutierrez, Hanover Twp; Kegan Polastre, Berwick; John Prater, Wilkes Barre; Jonathan Price, West Pittston; Hannah Pugh, Hanover Twp; Joshua Punchak, Stroudsburg; Yarielys Puntiel Adames, Nanticoke; Autumn Purcell, Coal Township; Patricia Quintana, Hazleton; Keirstyn Radzwich, Sugarloaf; Rosbely Ramos Guzman, Hazleton; Amber Ransom, Scranton; Madelyn Rarig, Catawissa; Jason Rattigan II, Wilkes Barre; Ryan Reilly, Kingston; Mario Reyes, Wilkes Barre; Tiffany Reyes, Scranton; Yoselyn Reyes, Hazleton; Andrew Richards, Mountain Top; Jessica Richmond, Wilkes Barre; Kinara Risher, Wilkes Barre; Carlos Rivera, Edwardsville; Kristin Roberts, Pringle; Kristin Roberts, Pringle; Yohanna Robles Abreu, Hazleton; Rebecca Roche, Plymouth; Adolfo Rodriguez, Wilkes Barre; Luiza Rodriguez, Nanticoke; Yarissell Rodriguez, Hazleton; Ruth Rodriguez Vasquez, Nanticoke; Kaylee Roebuck, Wilkes Barre; Sarah Roman, Nanticoke; Caroline Romero, Larksville; Katherine Romero, Hazle Twp; Nicole Rominski, Tunkhannock; Jean Rosario, Wilkes Barre; Stacey Rosario, Freeland; Dawn Rossignol, Lake Ariel; Molly Rubincan, Kingston; Christine Rudaski, Hanover Twp; Whitney Ruiz, Wilkes Barre; Laura Russell, Forest City; Jayden Rusyn, Wyoming; Kevin Ryan, Harveys Lake; Ariana Rysz, Swoyersville; Willy Sanchez, Wilkes Barre; Angel Santana, Nanticoke; Bridget Sarnosky, Hanover Twp; Madison Sauers, Nanticoke; Chelsea Saullo, Hazle Twp; Olivia Schwartz, Larksville; Kenneth Scott, Dupont; Christina Scutt-Forte, Edwardsville; Mykala Seigfried, Shickshinny; Stephanie Sepko, Plains; Derek Shemanski, Nanticoke; Kristina Shemanski, Sugarloaf; Jean Shields, Hazleton; Noelle Shoemaker, Hanover; Kyle Shumosic, Wyoming; Ty Sica, Wilkes Barre; Cristian Silfa, Hazleton; Charles Silves, Wilkes Barre; Angelica Simet, Hazleton; Vonetta Simmons, Plymouth; Auston Simonson, Shickshinny; Serenity Simpson, Wilkes Barre; Abigail Sims, Luzerne; Jenna Skibitsky, Plains; Charles Sleyo III, Dallas; Jennifer Slodysko, Marion Heights; Melissa Smith, South Williamsport; Paige Smith-Schwartzer, Yatesville; Myrheesha Snead, Berwick; Lindsay Snook, Hanover Twp; Daniela Solorzano, Hazleton; Jessica Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Jessica Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Kelvin Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Timothy Sosa, Ashley; Nero Sosa-Amigon, Wilkes Barre; Angelica Sotelo, Wilkes Barre; Daniella Soto, Trucksville; Jose Soto Hernandez, Hazle Twp; Abigail Souder, Nanticoke; Glenn Stackhouse, Bloomsburg; Devin Stahl, Drums; Jacqueline Stalica, Scott Twp; Nathan Stanski, Sweet Valley; Nathan Stanski, Sweet Valley; Lindsey Stanton, Harveys Lake; Jacob Starosta, Shavertown; Delainey Starr, Bloomsburg; Avalon Starrie, Pittston; Azim Stash, Plains; Tiffany Staskiel, Pittston; Zita Statsman, Dunmore; Nicolas Stein, Scranton; Cah'mier Stephenson, Nanticoke; Johnathan Steve, Shavertown; Anna Stibick, Mountain Top; Anna Stibick, Mountain Top; John Stochla, Larksville; Kara Stoltzfus, Wilkes Barre; Rachel Stone, Roaring Branch; William Stubblefield, Henryville; Matthew Sturgill, Courtdale; Karin Suerken, Paxinos; Tyler Suiters, Wilkes Barre; Miranda Surdel, Larksville; Gianna Tallo, Scranton; Connor Tattersall, Nanticoke; Renny Taveras, Wilkes Barre; Zoe Taylor, Catasauqua; Yolanny Tejada Duran, Kingston; Adora Thomas, Kingston; Melissa Thomas, Coal Township; Jocelyn Thompson, Edwardsville; Jadon Tlatenchi, Wilkes Barre; Jessica Tocket, Kingston; Julian Torres Morales, Wilkes Barre; Mariela Torres-Martinez, Wilkes Barre; Juliana Tosi, Dallas; Brandon Toter, Kulpmont; Mary Jude Ulmer, Carbondale; Daisy Urbaez-Rivera, Hatfield; Tommy Valenzuela, Wilkes Barre; Caroline Vargas-Morataya, Plains; China Vavrusa, Berwick; Jasper Veloso, Forty Fort; Frank Ventura-Aguilar, Wilkes Barre; Karen Verbickas, Wilkes Barre; Kiena Vest, Trucksville; Ashley Vicchitto, Swoyersville; Nicole Vogel, Pittston; Lukas Volpetti, Pittston; Magdaly Wassaff, Drums; Jasmen Watt, Plymouth; Liam Webber, East Stroudsburg; Alexandra Wesolowski, Avoca; Jessica Wesolowski, Avoca; Emma Wheeler, Sugar Notch; Kiyanna Wheeler, Luzerne; Michael Wickiser, Mountain Top; Michele Wilke, Shamokin; Brian Williams, Hazleton; Emily Williams, Pittston; Nicholas Wilson, Wilkes Barre; Tricia Womer, Noxen; Brittney Wood, Hudson; Maria Wood, Noxen; Nathan Wright, Hanover Twp; Maci Yech, Wilkes Barre; Ryan Yocius, Mountain Top; Sasha Young, Swoyersville; Audrey Yuhas, Peckville; Helena Zadeh, Springbrook Township; Michael Zamonas, Weston; Sarah Zaremba, Ashley; Maylyn Zaruta, Wilkes Barre Twp; Suzanne Zick, Factoryville; Madison Zielinski, Olyphant.
Early College
Tafarie Ashraf, Edwardsville; Mason Barley, Mountain Top; Cameron Gruden, Plains Twp; Rachel Harvilchuck, Brackney; Patrick Lakkis, Mountain Top; Madison Sauers, Nanticoke; Serenity Simpson, Wilkes Barre; Delainey Starr, Bloomsburg; Juliana Tosi, Dallas; Michael Wickiser, Mountain Top; Nathan Wright, Hanover Twp; Michael Zamonas, Weston.
Sam Lesante Show: 天美传媒 Report- HRSA Workforce Expansion Grant
天美传媒 is helping address the critical nursing shortage in Northeastern Pennsylvania through its HRSA Workforce Expansion Grant.* On this edition of the Sam Lesante Show, Sam visits LCCC's Health Sciences Center in Nanticoke to learn how the grant is expanding opportunities for future healthcare professionals and strengthening the region's workforce. Featured guests include Kimberly Olszewski, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences; Cheyenne Martin, Nursing Program Instructor and Faculty Representative; Chasity Girton, Clinical Instructor and Student Success Coach; and nursing student Megan Conklin, who share how the program is making a difference for students, healthcare providers, and the communities they serve.
LCCC Social & Behavioral Sciences Department Honored with Outstanding Community Partner Award by Luzerne County Head Start
天美传媒's Social & Behavioral Sciences Department was recently recognized with the Outstanding Community Partner Award by Luzerne County Head Start during the organization's 61st Anniversary Luncheon held on May 18.*
The award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made meaningful contributions to Luzerne County Head Start and the families it serves. This year, the agency honored three community partners whose dedication, generosity, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on children and families throughout the region.
LCCC?s Social & Behavioral Sciences Department was recognized for its longstanding commitment to supporting local children through its annual Holiday Gift and Book Drive. Each year, faculty and staff members "adopt" children enrolled in the Head Start program, providing personalized holiday gifts while also collecting books to encourage literacy and foster a love of reading.
"This recognition reflects the compassion and dedication of our faculty and staff who continually look for ways to make a difference in the lives of children and families throughout our community," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "Community partnerships like the one we share with Luzerne County Head Start embody the mission of 天美传媒 and demonstrate the power of service, education, and caring for our neighbors."
The Holiday Gift and Book Drive has become a cherished tradition within the department, bringing together faculty, staff, and community members to support Head Start families during the holiday season. Through the program, children receive gifts tailored to their interests and needs, along with books that help build early literacy skills.
"We are honored to receive this recognition from Luzerne County Head Start," said Janis Wilson Seeley, Chair/Professor, Social and Behavioral Sciences Department. "Supporting children and families in our community is a privilege, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with an organization that has made such a profound impact on generations of local families."
The 61st Anniversary Luncheon celebrated Luzerne County Head Start?s enduring commitment to enhancing the quality of life for low-income children and families. During the event, the organization awarded more than $20,000 in scholarships to former Head Start students pursuing higher education, recognized community partners, and honored staff, board members, and bus drivers for their years of service.
Since its founding, Luzerne County Head Start has provided comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family support services to thousands of children and families across Luzerne and Wyoming counties.
LCCC congratulates the Social & Behavioral Sciences Department on this well-deserved recognition and thanks Luzerne County Head Start for its continued partnership and commitment to serving the community.
LUZERNE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2026 COMMENCEMENT
LUZERNE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2026 COMMENCEMENT PREVIEW
Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, PA*
What:
天美传媒 will hold its 2026 Commencement Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of more than 500 graduates representing diverse academic programs, ages, and backgrounds.
Who:
558 total graduates (duplicated count, including students with multiple degrees)
548 unduplicated graduates
145 Associate in Science graduates
330 Associate in Applied Science graduates
57 Certificate of Specialization graduates
26 Diploma graduates
13 Veteran graduates
11 Early College graduates
Ages of graduates range from 17 to 64
Featured speakers include college leadership, faculty representatives, distinguished guests, and student speakers representing the Class of 2026.
Where:
Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza
255 Highland Park Blvd, Wilkes-Barre, PA
When:
Thursday, May 28, 2026
6:00 p.m. start time RUN OF SHOW / PROGRAM ORDER
PROCESSIONAL
Pomp and Circumstance ? Edward Elgar
Academic procession enters arena; audience is asked to rise
PROCESSION MARSHALS
Kimberly Gavlick, M.Ed.
Mark Kobusky ?92, A.A.S.
PRESENTATION OF THE COLORS
1st Battalion, 108th Field Artillery Regiment Color Guard
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Trinity Brown ?24, A.S. (General Studies)
PRESIDENTIAL WELCOME
John T. Yudichak, M.A., President
GREETING FROM BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Robert A. Bertoni ?86, A.S., Chair, Board of Trustees
INTRODUCTION OF PRINCIPAL SPEAKER
Janis Wilson Seeley, Ph.D.
PRINCIPAL SPEAKER
Fanita Y. Pendleton ?91, M.P.A.
GRADUATE ADDRESS
Maria Pia Aliaga Maldonado ?26, A.A.S.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AWARDS PRESENTATION
Patricia Besermin, President, Alumni Association, and Bonnie Brennan Lauer, Director of Alumni Relations, present the following awards:
Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award
Presented by Ms. Patricia Besermin to Madison Mary-Katherine Hayes
Outstanding Adult Learner Graduate Award
Presented by Mrs. Bonnie Brennan Lauer to Tricia Womer
CONFERRAL OF DEGREES
Presentation of graduates by academic division
CLOSING / RECESSIONAL
Faculty and graduates exit to recessional music
Informal celebration follows
Outstanding Adult Learner Spotlight: Tricia Marie Womer
At a time when many people question whether it is possible to return to college, excel academically, and completely reshape a career path, one student at 天美传媒 has done exactly that--and done it with perfection.
*
Tricia Marie Womer will graduate from 天美传媒 with an Associate in Science degree in Mathematics and a remarkable 4.000 GPA, earning her recognition as this year?s Outstanding Adult Learner Award nominee.
A Journey Defined by Determination
Womer?s path back to higher education was not a traditional one. After facing unemployment, she made the decision to return to college with a clear but challenging goal: rebuild her future through education.
She entered LCCC with an expectation that she would need to rely heavily on personal savings to complete her degree. Instead, she found support through scholarships and grants that allowed her to fully focus on her academic journey.
That shift, she says, reinforced her belief in perseverance and purpose.
Academic Excellence in Mathematics
As a mathematics major, Womer has distinguished herself not only through grades, but through deep academic engagement in advanced coursework including Calculus III, Differential Equations, and Abstract Algebra.
Her academic success earned her membership in multiple honor societies and academic organizations, including Phi Theta Kappa, Psi Beta, and Alpha Sigma Lambda. She also achieved recognition such as the Honors Luncheon Math Award and a Pi Day Cornhole Tournament First Place finish in the student division?showcasing both academic and campus involvement.
A Leader Beyond the Classroom
Womer?s presence at LCCC extends well beyond lectures and exams. She has been actively involved in the Math Club from 2024 through 2026, participated in tutoring fellow students in mathematics, and engaged in a wide range of campus events?from field trips to the Mutter Museum to library lecture series exploring topics like Pascal?s Triangle.
Her commitment to helping others succeed is reflected in her tutoring role, where she has helped classmates navigate challenging mathematical concepts.
"I?d be so excited when they?d bring math homework to me," she said in an interview. "It?s a privilege to help."
A Lifelong Connection to Service and Community
Outside of campus, Womer has maintained long-standing community involvement. For more than a decade, she has volunteered in her church as a worship leader and assistant youth leader. She has also contributed to the Wyoming County Fair in its photography and craft department for nearly 20 years.
These commitments reflect a consistent theme in her life: service, creativity, and connection.
From Student to Future Educator
Womer?s academic goals extend well beyond her associate degree. She plans to continue her studies at Wilkes University, pursuing a bachelor?s degree in mathematics with a minor in creative writing, followed by graduate studies in mathematics.
Her long-term aspiration is to become a college mathematics professor, combining her passion for advanced math with her talent for communication and teaching.
"I would love to teach math at a college level," she shared. "I have an appreciation for higher-level math, and I want to help others understand it."
A Full Circle Moment at Commencement
For Womer, the upcoming commencement ceremony represents more than graduation?it marks a personal milestone years in the making.
Having been homeschooled, she did not previously experience a traditional graduation ceremony. Walking across the stage at Mohegan Arena will be a first?and a deeply meaningful one.
"I have some butterflies," she said with a smile. "This will be my first time actually walking a graduation stage."
A Student Who Embodies the Adult Learner Spirit
Womer?s journey reflects the mission of adult education: resilience, reinvention, and purpose-driven achievement. From returning to college after unemployment to earning a perfect GPA in a demanding STEM field, her story stands as an example of what is possible when determination meets opportunity.
As she prepares to graduate, LCCC honors her not only for academic excellence, but for the persistence, leadership, and passion that define her collegiate journey.
High School Students Get a Head Start Through 天美传媒's Early College Program
As part of the 天美传媒 2026 Commencement celebration, a group of outstanding students will graduate with college credits already completed through the college's Early College Program - giving them a valuable head start on their academic and career journeys.
*The Early College Program allows high school students to take real college courses while still attending high school, helping them earn transferable college credits, build confidence in a college environment, and save both time and money on their future education.
Students participating in the program can choose from traditional Early College courses or pursue career-focused training through the college?s Career & Technology Academy, where students can earn a 17-credit diploma connected to hands-on career pathways.
"Early College is about opening doors and creating opportunities for students before they even graduate high school," said Maria DeLucca, Dean of Early College and Educational Partnerships. "These students have demonstrated determination, discipline, and academic excellence by balancing high school responsibilities while successfully completing college-level coursework. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments at commencement."
The program continues to grow across Northeastern Pennsylvania as more students recognize the opportunity to get ahead academically while reducing future college costs.
The following students will be recognized as Early College graduates during the 2026 commencement ceremony:
Tafarie Ashraf, Edwardsville
Mason Barley, Mountain Top
Cameron Gruden, Plains Township
Rachel Harvilchuck, Brackney
Patrick Lakkis, Mountain Top
Madison Sauers, Nanticoke
Serenity Simpson, Wilkes-Barre
Delainey Jean Starr, Bloomsburg
Juliana R. Tosi, Dallas
Michael Wickiser, Mountain Top
Nathan Wright, Hanover Township
Michael Zamonas, Weston
Through Early College, students are proving that it is never too early to begin building a successful future. By earning college credits before high school graduation, they are already taking important steps toward completing degrees, entering the workforce, and pursuing long-term career goals.
天美传媒 Alumni Association Celebrates Class of 2026 at Graduate Reception
Graduates from the Class of 2026 gathered Tuesday evening at the Educational Conference Center on the main campus of 天美传媒 for the annual Alumni Association Graduate Reception, a celebration recognizing students ahead of Thursday night's commencement ceremony.*
The annual event, sponsored by the 天美传媒 Alumni Association, featured music, food, raffles, and an opportunity for graduates to celebrate alongside faculty, staff, family, and friends.
"We are truly glad that you?re here," graduates were told during welcoming remarks by Alumni Director Bonnie Lauer. . "This annual reception, which is sponsored by your Alumni Association, gives us the chance to meet you, congratulate you, and share a little bit more about what we do. Most importantly, it allows us to celebrate everything you?ve achieved during your time here at LCCC."
The evening also highlighted the accomplishments and personal journeys of the graduating class, including Madison Hayes, recipient of the Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award.
"I?ve gained confidence in myself due to the staff encouraging me to be the best version of myself," Hayes said. "I have gained relationships with amazing friends, and I?ve gained connections with great professors. I have found the best support outside of my family and friends through the AllOne Recovery Institution, and LCCC has given me the tools to continue on my path to Misericordia University."
John Yudichak congratulated the graduates and reflected on the significance of commencement week for the college community.
"The 58th graduating class of 天美传媒 ? congratulations," Yudichak said. "Later this week, you will walk across that graduation stage and hold up high a degree earned through your own talent and tenacity, a well-deserved reward for your years of hard work."
"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, the faculty, our Alumni Association, and the many faculty and staff members who have been with you on this journey, congratulations," he added.
The reception served as one of the final celebrations before the college?s 58th Commencement Ceremony, which will take place Thursday evening at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza.
From Recovery to Award Winner on Commencement Night
On Thursday night, one of the loudest cheers inside the arena during the 2026 commencement ceremony for 天美传媒 will likely come when Madison Mary-Katherine Hayes walks across the stage to receive her diploma.*
For Madison Hayes, becoming one of the 558 graduates in the Class of 2026 is more than an academic achievement - it is a celebration of recovery, resilience, and a second chance at life.
Hayes, this year?s recipient of the LCCC Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award, has overcome extraordinary personal struggles on her journey to graduation. Her story has become a powerful example of hope for students in recovery and for anyone facing adversity.
"Recovery is not simply about surviving, it is about thriving," said Melissa Wassel, director of the LCCC Center for Student Support & Intervention, during a recent campus event celebrating National Collegiate Recovery Week.
Hayes embodies that message.
Just 18 months ago, Hayes was battling severe addiction and mental health challenges. She openly shared during a recent campus ceremony that years of substance abuse nearly cost her life. On Sept. 27, 2023, she attempted suicide through an overdose and was clinically dead before being revived.
"I did die that day, but by some miracle, I was brought back," Hayes said .
After another relapse weeks later, Hayes committed herself fully to recovery. Since Oct. 8, 2023, she has remained sober, free from self-harm, and dedicated to rebuilding her life.
Today, Hayes is thriving academically, professionally, and personally.
She serves as president of the LCCC Stay Strong Student Support Club, has earned induction into five honor societies, and received numerous honors including the AllOne Recovery Educational Institute Award, a Community Service Award, Outstanding Psychology Student Award, and her newest recognition --the Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award.
This fall, Hayes will continue her education at Misericordia University through the new Accelerate Your Degree partnership between LCCC and Misericordia University, creating a seamless pathway for students to continue earning advanced degrees.
Hayes credits much of her success to the AllOne Recovery Educational Institute (AREI), a partnership between LCCC and the AllOne Foundation that provides academic, career-planning, and social support services for students recovering from addiction.
"When I tell you this program has saved my life, I am not kidding in the slightest bit," Hayes said. "There is help available and you matter and you are never alone. And I will always continue to recover loudly, so others do not suffer quietly."
AREI was launched in 2019 after the AllOne Foundation donated $1.19 million to the college -- at the time the largest private donation in LCCC history. The program has since expanded significantly with support from Luzerne County opioid-settlement funding, helping nearly double enrollment for students in recovery while providing tuition assistance, textbook support, and Certified Recovery Specialist training opportunities. Hayes? journey is one of those lives transformed.
Friends, coworkers, faculty members, and classmates describe Hayes as an inspiration both inside and outside the classroom. Coworkers at Abe's Hot Dogs celebrated her recent academic accomplishments publicly, praising her determination, work ethic, and compassion.
For Hayes, graduation night represents more than receiving a diploma. It represents healing, perseverance, and proof that recovery is possible.
As LCCC celebrates commencement this week, the college is also celebrating stories like Madison Hayes? -- stories of courage, community support, and hope.
And when she walks across the stage Thursday night, Madison Hayes will not just be receiving an award.
She will be celebrating a life reclaimed.
28th Annual Flea Market & Collectibles Show Returns to LCCC on June 6
天美传媒 will host the 28th Annual Flea Market & Collectibles Show on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Educational Conference Center parking lot on the College's Main Campus in Nanticoke.*
The popular community event will feature more than 40 vendors offering a wide variety of antiques, collectibles, crafts, jewelry, and unique finds. Attendees can also enjoy a selection of local food vendors throughout the morning, making it a family-friendly destination for shopping and entertainment.
Admission and parking are free, making it an accessible event for the entire community to attend and explore.
In addition to the flea market, the event will also feature a car show running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., showcasing classic and custom vehicles for enthusiasts of all ages.
The Flea Market & Collectibles Show continues to be a long-standing tradition at 天美传媒, bringing together vendors, collectors, and community members for a day of discovery and connection on campus.
Community members are encouraged to arrive early, browse the wide selection of offerings, and enjoy a festive summer morning at LCCC.
From Beer Distributor to Bedside Care: Jeremy Aquino's Nursing Journey
The path from uncertainty to purpose came full circle Thursday, May 21, as Jeremy Aquino stood among 110 graduating nursing students during the 天美传媒 Nursing Pinning Ceremony held at the King's College Gymnasium.*
For Aquino, the ceremony marked more than an academic milestone. It represented the culmination of a journey that began far from hospital hallways and classrooms-in a beer distributor job during the early uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the time, nursing was not part of his plan. But a conversation with his mother, who worked in a nursing home in Hazleton, led him to try something new. What began as a short-term opportunity quickly became a turning point. Working with residents-particularly those living with dementia-he discovered a natural connection to caregiving and patient-centered support.
That experience ultimately set him on a new direction, leading him to enroll at 天美传媒 and begin the academic journey toward nursing. The transition was not immediate or easy. Aquino openly described early struggles with online coursework and motivation, but said the decision to return to in-person learning made a critical difference in his success.
"I couldn?t really understand what I was doing," he reflected during a recent student address. "But I gave myself one more chance."
That second chance led to academic momentum, acceptance into the nursing program, and eventually the clinical experiences that would define his training. From medical-surgical rotations to obstetrics at Moses Taylor Hospital, Aquino gained hands-on experience across multiple care environments. One of his most memorable moments came in the labor and delivery setting, where he assisted with newborn assessments and observed cesarean sections--experiences he described as transformative.
Thursday?s pinning ceremony reflected those same moments of transformation across the entire graduating class. Faculty, families, and peers gathered to recognize 110 students who completed one of the most demanding programs in the college. The ceremony symbolized the official transition from nursing student to nursing graduate, honoring both academic achievement and the emotional journey behind it.
For Aquino and his classmates, the pinning represented a shared commitment to patient care, perseverance, and professional responsibility. The symbolic nursing pin, awarded during the ceremony, marked the completion of clinical training and the beginning of entry into the nursing profession.
The event also served as a prelude to commencement, as the Class of 2026 prepares to graduate next week at 天美传媒 Commencement Ceremony.
As Aquino looks ahead to that final milestone, his story stands as a reminder of how unexpected beginnings can lead to purposeful destinations. From a beer distributor job during a global pandemic to the bedside of patients in hospitals and long-term care facilities, his journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a growing sense of calling.
"I never thought I?d be here," he has said. "But thanks to my professors, my family, and this program, I am."
Now, with pinning behind him and graduation ahead, Aquino is preparing to step fully into the profession he once never imagined--one patient, one shift, and one moment at a time.
LCCC Celebrates Nursing Class of 2026 During Pinning Ceremony
天美传媒 honored 110 graduates of its Mary Gill Carrozza, RN School of Nursing Class of 2026 during a pinning ceremony held Thursday evening at King's College Gym. The ceremony marked a significant milestone as students formally transitioned from nursing students to professional nurses entering the healthcare workforce.*
The event brought together graduates, faculty, families, and college leadership to celebrate the completion of one of the region?s most rigorous and respected nursing programs.
This year?s graduating class enters the profession at a critical time for healthcare systems across Pennsylvania and the nation. Pennsylvania continues to face one of the most severe nursing shortages in the country, with statewide projections estimating a deficit of more than 20,000 nurses in the coming years. Hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout northeastern Pennsylvania and across the Commonwealth continue working to fill critical nursing positions as demand for healthcare services grows.
The addition of 110 newly trained nurses from 天美传媒 represents an important contribution to addressing workforce shortages impacting hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and community healthcare providers throughout the region.
During the ceremony, graduates participated in traditional nursing rituals, including the Florence Nightingale Pledge and the presentation of nursing pins?symbols of achievement, integrity, and service in the nursing profession.
Presidential Remarks
John Yudichak congratulated the graduating class and emphasized their importance to the region?s healthcare future.
"Tonight we celebrate more than academic achievement?we celebrate compassion, resilience, and the calling to serve others," Yudichak said. "These 110 graduates represent the very best of 天美传媒 and will make an immediate and lasting impact in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities across our region and beyond."
Yudichak also noted the critical role community colleges play in addressing workforce shortages.
"At a time when Pennsylvania and the nation continue facing significant nursing shortages, tonight?s graduates are stepping forward to answer that need," he said. "Luzerne County Community College remains committed to preparing highly skilled healthcare professionals who will strengthen our communities and improve lives."
Dean?s Remarks
Kimberly Olszewski praised the graduates for their perseverance and dedication throughout the demanding program.
"Our students have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, discipline, and heart throughout their nursing education," Olszewski said. "They leave LCCC not only as skilled clinicians, but as compassionate caregivers prepared to meet the challenges of today?s evolving healthcare environment. We are incredibly proud of each and every graduate."
Olszewski added that the graduates are entering the profession at a time when healthcare providers urgently need well-prepared nurses.
"These graduates will immediately make a difference in patient care throughout our communities," she said. "Healthcare organizations across Pennsylvania are searching for qualified nurses, and tonight?s ceremony represents hope for the future of healthcare in our region."
Nursing Class of 2026
Claire M. Abbott
Masiel Abreu
Ellie D. Androvette
Jeremy Aquino
Dylan T. Bell
Tatianna M. Bisono
Phina E. Black
Yan L. Brazoban
Lauren K. Brown
Lesley A. Brown
Richard Carey
Logan T. Charnigo
Chelsea Clark
Hannah Clark
Tanya L. Clark
Sabrina G. Conyers
Emine E. Degirmencioglu
Skylar Duggy
Caitlin A. Dushanko
Christy M. Fairchild
Cora L. Fenner
Ashley V. Ferry
Lidia C. Fetfatzes
Trinity M. Fithian
Morgan L. Ford
Connor E. Foster
Sydney Gebhardt
Mackenzie J. Goyne
Rebecca M. Graves
Raven A. Griffiths
Nathan S. Grisom
Erica Gritzen
Sarah E. Hallbert
Sarah L. Hampton
Elaine T. Haraschak
Marina Hitchcock
Kimberly N. Hylton
Lindsey M. Jones
Devin S. Kantz
Bobbi Mae Kelder
Amber Kocher
Jessica L. Kolbush
Rebecca Koons
Odessa L. Kramer
Jessie L. Learn
Erica E. Leonard
Alex Lian
Bernadette T. Lieback
Kalie E. Lindbuchler
Anissa R. Lockwitch
Lauren J. Mackey
Monica L. Mackie
Maria E. Marx
Stephanie E. McCauley
Quinn D. McCracken
Brynne R. McGoff
Audra L. McGrady
Isabella E. McLaughlin
Emily M. Mestlin
Jill A. Mestlin
Micheal Millett
Devin M. Minich
Kailey E. Moore
Jessica A. Mullins
Nicole R. Nardozzi-Cosimo
Emilee E. Naus
Richard C. Norris
Miquan K. Nowell
James E. Ogle
Christine K. Ondish
Steven C. Padula
Elizabeth A. Parker
Gena M. Pascucci
Tanya M. Pereira
Sarah M. Perkins
Hannah M. Pugh
Autumn M. Purcell
Dawn F. Rossignol
Christina A. Scutt-Forte
Stephanie L. Sepko
Jennifer L. Slodysko
Myrheesha D. Snead
Angelica H. Sotelo
Abigail R. Souder
Kara J. Stolzfus
Karin C. Suerken
Miranda L. Surdel
Zoe N. Taylor
Adora Thomas
Melissa L. Thomas
Mariela M. Torres-Martinez
Mary Jude Ulmer
China L. Vavrusa
Jasmine T. Watt
Emily E. Williams
Brittney R. Wood
Maria M. Wood
Suzanne Zick
天美传媒 the Ceremony
The Mary Gill Carrozza, RN School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony is a longstanding tradition in nursing education, symbolizing the transition into professional practice. The LCCC pin, designed in 1975, reflects the college?s heritage and the core values of nursing: courage, truth, integrity, knowledge, and service.
The Class of 2026 joins a proud legacy of LCCC nursing graduates serving healthcare systems throughout northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond.
天美传媒 Recognizes Dental Hygiene Classes of 2026 and 2027
天美传媒 recently celebrated the achievements and dedication of students in its Dental Health Department during the annual Dental Hygiene Recognition Ceremony held Tuesday, May 19.*
The special ceremony honored both the Dental Hygiene Class of 2026 graduates and first-year students from the Class of 2027 while recognizing academic excellence, professionalism, leadership, and commitment to patient care within the dental hygiene profession.
The event featured welcoming remarks, guest introductions, the presentation of first-year and graduate pins, recognition of class officers, presentation of awards, the Dental Hygiene Pledge, and remarks from members of the graduating class.
Karen B. Rainey, DMD, Director of the Dental Health Department, thanked family members, faculty, staff, and supporters for their continued encouragement of the college?s dental hygiene students.
"We would like to express our gratitude for your participation in attending our Dental Hygiene Recognition Ceremony," said Rainey. "Your participation in this special event contributes to its success and your support of our program is very much appreciated."
During the ceremony, students recited the Dental Hygiene Pledge, affirming their professional commitment to improving oral health, advancing the science of dental hygiene, and providing quality patient care.
Students receiving special awards and honors included:
Gabriela Morillo Frias - HuFriedy Golden Scaler Award
Amber Joseph - Colgate STAR Award
Franco Martinez - Benjamin J. Cohen Professionalism Award
Dinah Abreu-Pimental - Clark J. Hollister Award
Julliana Esparza - Julie Cleary Radiology Award
Kyle Baldeo - 天美传媒 Dental Hygiene Distinction Award
Mykala Seigfried - Student American Dental Hygienists? Association Scholarship Award
Kaley Ellard -Maureen Savner Professionalism Award
In addition, Tiffany Herr and Amber Ransom were inducted into the Sigma Phi Alpha National Dental Hygiene Honor Society for their scholarship, character, and potential for professional growth in the field of dental hygiene.
The following students were also previously recognized during the college?s Honors Luncheon for academic excellence and professionalism:
Tiffany Herr
Amber Ransom
The Dental Hygiene Class of 2026 includes:
Dinah Abreu-Pimental, Kyle Baldeo, Alyssa Belusko, Jacqueline Congo, Julliana Esparza, Tiffany Herr, Amber Joseph, Franco Martinez, Gabriela Morillo Frias, Yarielys Puntiel Adames, Amber Ransom, Rebecca Roche, Luiza Rodriguez, Yarissell Rodriguez, Caroline Romero, Nicole Rominski, Ariana Rysz, Mykala Seigfried, Angelica Simet, Jacob Starosta, Gianna Tallo, Jasper Veloso, Kiena Vest, and Madison Zielinski.
The Dental Hygiene Class of 2027 includes:
Elian Baez, Adrianny Moran Yuli, Huntyr Eichhorst, Nancy Morris, Kaley Ellard, McKenna Nay, Ethan Fernandez, Mercedes Pacheco, Robyn Gaeta, Jordan Porasky, Emily Heffner, Genesis Rios, Mara Hughes, Carlas Severino Del Carmen, Emily Kosciuk, Esmeralda Sosa, Carolann Larson, Gabrielle Vencak, Adrea Lopez Jimenez, Estefany Veras, Aislin Lynn, Jenna Winkler, and Meaghan Mizenko.
Faculty and staff members of the Dental Health Department were also recognized during the ceremony for their dedication to student success and clinical excellence.
The Dental Hygiene program at 天美传媒 prepares students for careers focused on oral health promotion, preventive care, patient education, and clinical dental hygiene services while emphasizing professionalism, leadership, and community service.
天美传媒 Celebrates Respiratory Therapy Class of 2026 at Pinning Ceremony
The Respiratory Therapy Program at 天美传媒 proudly celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during its annual Respiratory Therapy Pinning Ceremony held on May 16th at the Educational Conference Center on the college's main campus.*
The ceremony honored graduating students as they officially took their oath and received their pins, symbolizing their transition into the respiratory therapy profession. Family members, friends, faculty, clinical preceptors, and college administrators gathered to recognize the graduates? hard work, dedication, and commitment to healthcare.
Graduates recognized during the ceremony included:
Marcellinus Anowai, Kayleigh Baumgartner, Cristyn Cabrera, Chavely Calderon Bodre, Zeynep Demir, Crystal Kozick, Egypt McLeod, Gabriel Miller, Paige Alexis Nastawa, Karolyn Polcano Gutierrez, Sarah Ann Roman, Avalon Starrie, Zita Statsman, Matthew Sturgill, Jocelyn Thompson, and Sasha Young.
The evening began with a dinner reception followed by the official pinning presentation and awards recognition ceremony. Special recognitions included the Lambda Beta Society, PSRC Student of the Year Award, and acknowledgment of clinical preceptors for their support and mentorship throughout the students? educational journey.
Reflecting on the significance of the ceremony, John Conrad shared, "This pinning ceremony represents the culmination of years of hard work, growth, and perseverance. Our graduates are stepping into a vital role in healthcare, and we are incredibly proud of each of them."
He added, "As respiratory therapists, they will make a direct impact on patient lives every day. They leave here not only prepared with clinical skills, but with the compassion and professionalism that define this profession."
The Respiratory Therapy Program at 天美传媒 prepares students for careers as highly skilled respiratory therapists through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and clinical training in healthcare facilities throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
天美传媒燛MT燬tudents Complete Spring 2026 Training Program
Students in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program at 天美传媒, offered through the Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. School of Nursing and Health Sciences, recently completed their Spring 2026 EMT coursework and skills training program.
* The six-credit EMT course (EMS 101: Emergency Medical Technician) is a comprehensive entry-level emergency care training program that follows the National EMS Education Standards. The course includes approximately 250 hours of lecture, practical, and clinical instruction, focusing on patient assessment, evaluation of emergency situations, hands-on skills proficiency, and effective communication techniques.
Successful completion of the course prepares students to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) practical and written certification examinations. The EMT program also serves as a required foundation for students planning to enter the Paramedic (EMT-P) program.
The EMT program is offered through the Francis S. and Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center at 天美传媒.
For more information about the EMT program, contact the LCCC EMS Department at 570-740-0628 or 800-377-LCCC, ext. 7628, or visit 天美传媒.
Spring 2026 Class: Mitchel Eckroth
Scott Rumbough (Bloomsburg)
Brendan Kane
Matthew Urban (Wapwallopen)
Bryce Ortman (Bloomsburg)
Jordan Ceklosky (Dorrance)
Gabrielle Gattuso (Dallas)
Stephanie Pugh (Freeland)
Heather Norkunas (Ashley)
Zachary Bowen
EDFest Returns to 天美传媒 with a Celebration of Student Creativity and Innovation
天美传媒 welcomed students, faculty, and guests to the return of EDFest on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in Building 12 on the college's main campus. The event marked the revival of one of the college's most creative and student-driven traditions, showcasing the talent, passion, and innovation of students in the Communication Arts programs.*
Held from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., EDFest served as an end-of-year celebration highlighting student achievement across several disciplines, including Communication Design, Audio Visual Communications, Music Recording Technology, Fine Art, Photography, Painting, and Illustration.
Students from area high schools and community members had the opportunity to tour the college?s newly revamped Communication Arts programs, view student artwork and multimedia projects, meet faculty members, and learn more about the hands-on educational experiences available at LCCC. The event also featured live music performances, giving attendees a firsthand look at the creativity and production skills developed through the college?s Music Recording Technology program.
LCCC President John Yudichak welcomed attendees during opening remarks, encouraging prospective students to explore the many creative pathways available through the college?s Communication Arts programs.
EDFest has a long history at LCCC. Originally created in 2006 by Speech, Philosophy and Fine Arts Professor Ed Ackerman, the festival began as an underground, student-driven collaboration designed to bring creative students together to share their work and celebrate the end of the academic year. Over time, it evolved into a full-scale showcase of artistic and multimedia talent across campus.
Following its final event before the pandemic in 2021, which was held outdoors due to COVID-19 restrictions, EDFest went on hiatus. This year's event marked the official return of the festival, now revived and fully organized by LCCC students, continuing the tradition of creativity, collaboration, and student expression that has defined EDFest since its beginning.
Faculty members and organizers noted that the event not only celebrates student achievement, but also helps inspire future artists, designers, musicians, and media professionals from throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
The successful return of EDFest reflects LCCC's continued commitment to providing students with creative opportunities, real-world experiences, and innovative academic programs that prepare them for careers in the arts and media industries.
LCCC President John Yudichak Participates in Historic signing ceremony between the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges and TradesFutures
天美传媒 President John Yudichak joined leaders from across the Commonwealth today in Harrisburg for the signing of a first-in-the nation workforce development agreement aimed at building Pennsylvania's first statewide skilled traded workforce educational ecosystem.*
The agreement was signed between the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges and TradesFutures, a national non-profit organization established by North America?s Building Trades Unions and industry partners, to implement the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (M3C) and apprenticeship readiness program model. The MC3 curriculm is a building and construction trades pre-apprenticeship program registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry. The ceremony was held on National Skilled Trades Day, May 6th, at the headquarters of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers? Association.
Through its partnership with TradesFutures, 天美传媒 will launch a new Pre-Apprenticeship Construction & Building Trade Academy that will provide opportunity for high school students to earn a post-secondary credential in the skilled trades before graduating high school.
"Pennsylvania?s community colleges are building a first-in-the nation skilled trade workforce educational ecosystem that will fuel economic growth across the Pennsylvania economy in the critical industries of energy, technology, and manufacturing," said 天美传媒 President John Yudichak. "Historically underserved students in local career and technical high schools now have an opportunity to forge career pathways toward the high demand, high wage skilled trade professions."
The statewide collaboration of Pennsylvania?s Community Colleges and groups, like TradesFutures, comes at a critical time. Workforce projections from the Pennsylvania Departments of Education and Labor & Industry indicate that by 2030, the Commonwealth will need approximately 300,000 skilled workers across high-demand sectors such as energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Additionally, nearly 40 percent of the current skilled trades workforce is expected to retire within the next decade.
Through this agreement, Pennsylvania?s community colleges are aligning efforts under the PA Works! initiative to create a coordinated, statewide workforce development ecosystem. The initiative also seeks to expand partnerships with career and technical education high schools and industry leaders to better meet Pennsylvania?s workforce needs.
State Senator Lisa Boscola and State Representative Elizabeth Fiedler have introduced legislation to advance PAWorks! by establishing in state law a new Commission on Excellence in Career and Technical Education that would codify the historic partnership between community college and career and technical high schools in Pennsylvania.
In 2025, 天美传媒 launched a new Career & Technology Academy which provides over 4,000 career and technical high school students in the college?s service area to earn a certification or degree in the skilled trades, tuition free, thanks to a $2 million investment by the Pennsylvania Department of Education in the LCCC?s dual credit innovation program.
For more information about workforce development programs at 天美传媒, visit www.luzerne.edu.
天美传媒 Hosts U.S. Senator Dave McCormick for Energy & Jobs Roundtable
天美传媒 welcomed Dave McCormick and regional leaders today for a roundtable discussion focused on his newly introduced Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act, legislation aimed at reforming the federal permitting process and accelerating critical energy infrastructure projects.*
Held on LCCC's Nanticoke campus, the roundtable brought together leaders in energy, labor, and education for a collaborative discussion on the future of Pennsylvania?s energy economy. Approximately 50 attendees participated, including 25 stakeholders seated at the main discussion table.
"We are very grateful to 天美传媒 for being our gracious host," said Senator McCormick. "Pennsylvania has the workers, resources, and infrastructure to power this region and the country for decades. What we?re missing is a federal permitting system with clear rules and predictable timelines. This legislation is about getting America building again and ensuring our workforce can compete and thrive."
LCCC President John Yudichak emphasized the importance of hosting conversations that connect education, workforce development, and industry.
"It was an honor for 天美传媒 to host Senator McCormick and leaders from across the energy and labor sectors," said President Yudichak. "As a community college, we are deeply committed to preparing the workforce that powers Pennsylvania?s economy. Today?s discussion highlighted the critical connection between policy, education, and job creation, and we are proud to serve as a convener for these important conversations."
Senator McCormick?s Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act is designed to streamline federal permitting processes, which currently delay more than $1 trillion in infrastructure projects?representing an estimated $2.4 trillion in unrealized economic activity. The legislation establishes clear timelines, modernizes approval procedures, and reduces regulatory barriers that have hindered development across the country.
The roundtable provided an opportunity for attendees to share industry insights, discuss challenges related to permitting delays, and offer feedback on how federal reforms could strengthen Pennsylvania?s competitiveness in energy production and infrastructure development.
Participants underscored the growing demand for reliable, affordable energy and the need for policies that support job creation while maintaining strong environmental standards. The discussion also highlighted the role of educational institutions like LCCC in training the next generation of skilled workers to meet evolving industry needs.
Today?s event reinforced LCCC?s role as a regional leader in workforce development and its commitment to fostering partnerships that drive economic growth across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
天美传媒 Hosts Commonwealth & County Legislative Lunch
天美传媒 welcomed state and local leaders today for its Commonwealth & County Legislative Lunch, held at the College's Educational Conference Center on the Nanticoke campus. The event brought together members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Luzerne County Council, and regional stakeholders for an afternoon of meaningful dialogue focused on advancing education, workforce development, and economic growth across northeastern Pennsylvania.*
The program featured an informative discussion led by John Yudichak, President of 天美传媒, who was joined by distinguished faculty, staff, and community partners to highlight innovative college initiatives addressing critical regional needs.
"Luzerne County Community College is proud to serve as a convener of ideas and partnerships that directly impact the future of our region," said Yudichak. "By bringing together leaders from education, government, and industry, we are building pathways that prepare our students for in-demand careers while strengthening northeastern Pennsylvania?s economy."
Yudichak also emphasized the importance of continued investment in community colleges. "Our ability to respond quickly to workforce needs and provide affordable, high-quality education makes community colleges like LCCC essential to Pennsylvania?s long-term economic vitality," he added.
Opening the event, Robert Bertoni, Chair of the LCCC Board of Trustees, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of collaboration between education and government leaders.
"Today?s discussion highlights the power of collaboration," Bertoni said. "When institutions like LCCC work hand-in-hand with policymakers and community partners, we can create real opportunities for students and families across our region."
Bertoni added, "Events like this ensure that the voices of our students, faculty, and local employers are heard at every level of decision-making."
Panel discussions followed, beginning with "PA Works ? Building PA?s AI Infrastructure," featuring President Yudichak; Brian Uplinger, Superintendent of the Hazleton Area School District; Nicholas Lee-Romagnolo of Amazon Web Services; and Carrie Amann of the Pennsylvania State Board of Higher Education. The panel explored how artificial intelligence is shaping workforce demands and how educational institutions are preparing students for emerging careers.
"Preparing students for careers in AI and advanced technologies requires strong partnerships between education and industry," said Lee-Romagnolo. "Collaborations like those highlighted today are essential to building a workforce ready to meet the demands of tomorrow."
"Introducing students to these technologies early creates a pipeline of talent that will benefit our entire region," added Uplinger. "It?s about giving students the tools and exposure they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world."
The second panel, "Accelerate Your Degree," highlighted a growing partnership between LCCC and Misericordia University. Speakers included Russ Bigus, David Rehm, Glenn Bozinski, and Janis Seeley, who discussed streamlined transfer pathways designed to help students complete their degrees efficiently and affordably.
"Our partnership with Misericordia University is designed with student success at the center," said Bigus. "By creating clear and affordable transfer pathways, we are helping students achieve their academic and career goals without unnecessary barriers."
"Students today are looking for flexibility, affordability, and clear outcomes," added Seeley. "This partnership delivers on all three."
The final panel focused on workforce development partnerships and featured Romilda Crocamo; George Brown, Mayor of the City of Wilkes-Barre and LCCC Trustee; Christopher Boyle of the Children?s Service Center; and Linda Loop of Dress for Success Luzerne County. The panel highlighted successful collaborations that are strengthening the regional workforce and supporting community needs.
"Workforce development is about meeting people where they are and connecting them to meaningful opportunities," said Crocamo. "Through partnerships like these, we are making a lasting impact on individuals, families, and our entire community."
Mayor Brown reinforced the importance of local collaboration. "Strong partnerships between education, government, and community organizations are key to building a resilient workforce and a stronger region," he said.
Closing remarks were delivered by Megan Kennedy, LCCC Trustee, who reinforced the College?s commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit students and the broader community.
"LCCC continues to be a driving force in aligning education with workforce needs," Kennedy said. "Today?s conversations demonstrate what is possible when we work together with a shared vision for the future."
Kennedy added, "The collaboration we saw today is exactly what?s needed to move our region forward in a meaningful and sustainable way."
Following the program, legislators, county officials, and College leadership gathered for a group photo, with an optional tour of the 天美传媒 Technology Center offered to attendees.
Today?s Legislative Lunch underscored 天美传媒?s role as a regional leader in education, innovation, and workforce development, while strengthening connections with policymakers and community partners dedicated to the future of northeastern Pennsylvania.
27th Annual Dental Health Alumni Day at 天美传媒
天美传媒爌roudly announces the successful induction ceremony for its Honor Societies, held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the LCCC Educational Conference Center. This prestigious event celebrated the
achievements of dedicated students across multiple academic disciplines.*
Tyler Russell, Director of Student Life and Athletics and Phi Theta Kappa Advisor, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, guiding attendees through a ceremony filled with inspiration and recognition.
The ceremony included the induction of new members from five distinguished honor societies:
Alpha Sigma Lambda - Non-Traditional Student Honor Society
Kappa Beta Delta - Honor Society of Business Majors
Phi Theta Kappa - International Honor Society for Two-Year Colleges
Psi Beta - Honor Society for Psychology Majors
Sigma Kappa Delta - Honor Society for English Majors
During the ceremony, students signed the honor society book, lit a candle symbolizing their commitment, and recited their national honor society pledge, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
Following the inductions, cake and refreshments were served, providing an opportunity for family and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding students.
Congratulations to all of the inductees for their hard work and commitment to academic excellence. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of success.
For more information about 天美传媒燼nd its honor societies, visit
天美传媒.
LCCC 2026 Communication Arts Student Art Exhibition Now Open at Schulman Gallery
The 天美传媒 2026 Communication Arts Student Art Exhibition is currently on display at the Schulman Gallery*, located on the campus of 天美传媒. The exhibition runs from Friday, May 8, 2026, through Friday, June 5, 2026.
The opening night festivities, held on May 8, were a tremendous success, drawing a large crowd eager to celebrate the incredible talents of LCCC?s Communication Arts students. A highlight of the evening was the Presentation of the President?s Choice Awards, presented by John Yudichak alongside Schulman Gallery Curator Robert Husty.
LCCC 2026 Communication Arts Student Art Exhibition President?s Choice Awards
Sydney Ogle - President?s Choice Award in Painting
Noelle Shoemaker - President?s Choice Award in Photography
Stephanie Brown - President?s Choice Award in Sculpture
Hannah Brennan -President?s Choice Award for Best Portfolio
Liam Black - President?s Choice Award in Digital Art
Guadalupe Huertero - President?s Choice Award in Illustration and Best of Show
Charles Silves - President?s Choice Award in Music Recording Technology
Kristin Roberts - President?s Choice Award in Mixed Media
The exhibition is a testament to the creativity and hard work of the participating students, showcasing a diverse array of artwork that reflects their artistic talents, technical skills, and passion for the arts.
The Schulman Gallery is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The gallery is closed on holidays and during college closings. Community members are encouraged to visit and experience the remarkable work of LCCC?s student artists.
Gallery Information
Location:
Building 14, Campus Center - Second Floor
521 Trailblazer Drive
Nanticoke, PA 18634
For more information, visit LCCC Schulman Gallery or call 570-740-0727 or 1-800-377-LCCC (ext. 7727).
Stay connected on Facebook at LCCC Schulman Gallery Facebook Page.
We look forward to welcoming visitors to the gallery throughout the exhibition.
Honor Societies of 天美传媒燙elebrate 2026 Induction Ceremony
天美传媒爌roudly announces the successful induction ceremony for its Honor Societies, held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the LCCC Educational Conference Center. This prestigious event celebrated the achievements of dedicated students across multiple academic disciplines.*
Tyler Russell, Director of Student Life and Athletics and Phi Theta Kappa Advisor, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, guiding attendees through a ceremony filled with inspiration and recognition.
The ceremony included the induction of new members from five distinguished honor societies:
Alpha Sigma Lambda - Non-Traditional Student Honor Society
Kappa Beta Delta - Honor Society of Business Majors
Phi Theta Kappa - International Honor Society for Two-Year Colleges
Psi Beta - Honor Society for Psychology Majors
Sigma Kappa Delta - Honor Society for English Majors
During the ceremony, students signed the honor society book, lit a candle symbolizing their commitment, and recited their national honor society pledge, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
Following the inductions, cake and refreshments were served, providing an opportunity for family and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding students.
Congratulations to all of the inductees for their hard work and commitment to academic excellence. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of success.
For more information about 天美传媒燼nd its honor societies, visit
天美传媒.
Level Up at 天美传媒: Inside a Growing Esports Team
At 天美传媒, competition isn't limited to traditional athletics. Inside the college's dedicated Esports Arena, students are leveling up their skills, building community, and competing on a national stage through a rapidly expanding program powered by the NJCAAE league.*
With support from NJCAAE, LCCC Esports competes across 15+ game titles, offering students a wide range of opportunities to participate year-round. The program runs multiple competitive seasons featuring round-robin tournaments that stretch across weeks, along with intramural play, open competitions, and invitational events. The result is a continuous cycle of gameplay, development, and competition that keeps the arena active throughout the academic year.
A Culture Built on Competition and Community
For Kyle R. Davis, Student Life and Esports Manager at LCCC, the program is about far more than gaming.
"One of the biggest, most rewarding parts about esports is, we may not be as physically demanding as other sports, but a huge part of what we do here is the community, the strategy, puzzling through different scenarios you?re in," Davis said. "The reaction time, the dedication, and the amount of practice that needs to go in to be at the highest level is so phenomenally high."
That commitment shows up daily in the arena, where students train, practice, and refine their gameplay even between official tournaments. When competition pauses, preparation doesn?t. Teams stay active through scrimmages, coaching sessions, and skill development workshops designed to sharpen reflexes and coordination.
Recently, the program hosted a high-energy two-day 3v3 Rocket League tournament in the Esports Arena, drawing competitors together for fast-paced matches and intense bracket play.
Student Voices: Growth Through Gaming
For students, the program is as much about personal development as it is about competition.
Blake Strunk of Shickshinny emphasized the importance of teamwork and commitment.
"The two biggest qualities for me that make a good player are good teamwork and commitment," Strunk said. "People who put in the hours, put in the practice, and also work well with others?that?s what makes a strong team."
Other students echoed the sense of connection and motivation the program provides.
Matthew Deamicis of Kingston shared how esports has helped him grow socially and competitively.
"It is absolutely fun to get to know a lot of people, to play games with other people, and talk about things that will motivate us to do better," Deamicis said. "We learn what we can improve on and what we need to work on for tournaments."
For Ben Ackourey of Dallas, the experience has been unexpectedly transformative.
"I?ve had a lot of fun in my last two years here," Ackourey said. "It?s given me a lot of friends. I never thought I?d be part of an esports team, especially not playing Mario Kart, but I had a great time."
Competing, Streaming, and Building the Future
Beyond competition, LCCC Esports is also building a media presence through live shoutcasting on Twitch, where students and staff broadcast matches in real time so fans and teammates can follow the action as it unfolds. It?s another layer of hands-on experience?blending gameplay with production, commentary, and digital storytelling.
As the program continues to grow, Davis sees esports as a powerful tool for engagement and student success, especially in a post-pandemic environment where students are seeking connection and belonging on campus.
"We see everyone coming back into colleges," Davis said. "This has been a huge boon for students?finding a community and a place they want to be a part of, while also learning skills along the way."
LCCC Esports offers multiple levels of participation, from intramural play to more competitive varsity-style opportunities. Students can also explore roles behind the scenes, including coaching, production, and team support.
Join the Game
Whether students are competitive players, casual gamers, or simply curious about esports, the program is open to all.
Interested students can connect with Coach Kyle Davis:
[email protected]
(570) 740-0483
At 天美传媒, esports is more than gaming?it?s teamwork, discipline, creativity, and community. And in the Esports Arena, the next level is always within reach.
天美传媒 Expands Tuition-Free Dual Credit Opportunities for High School Students Through Two Major State Investments
天美传媒 is significantly expanding tuition-free college credit opportunities for high school students across northeastern Pennsylvania, driven by two major investments from the Shapiro Administration that are strengthening dual enrollment programs and accelerating pathways to high-demand careers.*
Pennsylvania leaders recently announced an additional $7 million in Dual Credit Innovation Grant funding statewide, bringing the Administration?s total investment to $21 million. LCCC is among the institutions selected to receive support to expand dual-credit programming that allows high school students to earn college credits - free of charge - before graduation.
This new award builds upon LCCC?s earlier success. In 2025, the College received a $1 million Dual Credit Innovation Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education to dramatically expand access to dual enrollment opportunities, with a focus on students enrolled in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
Expanding Career Pathways Across Northeastern Pennsylvania
Funding from the original 2025 grant is already transforming opportunities for students through LCCC?s Career & Technology Academy partnerships with the Hazleton Area Career Center, Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center, and West Side Career & Technical Center.
Through these collaborations, more than 2,000 high school students will have the opportunity to earn college credits aligned with in-demand workforce careers. Programs include Welding, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, HVAC, Culinary Arts, and Early Childhood Education - all critical industries for regional economic growth that offer strong, family-sustaining wages.
The expanded dual-credit opportunities are designed to help students graduate from high school with a head start on college credentials while reducing the overall cost of higher education and strengthening Pennsylvania?s future workforce.
New Expansion to Rural Campuses and Underserved Communities
With the newly awarded 2026 Dual Credit Innovation Grant totaling an additional $1 million, LCCC is expanding its dual enrollment network to school districts near its Shamokin and Greater Susquehanna campus sites. This expansion will bring college-level coursework directly to rural communities where access to postsecondary training has historically been limited.
College officials said the initiative reflects LCCC?s ongoing mission to increase educational access, workforce readiness, and economic opportunity throughout the region.
For more information about dual enrollment opportunities at 天美传媒, visit 天美传媒
天美传媒 Student Honored as Outstanding Adult Learner
天美传媒 student Alexandria Dunnion of Scranton has been recognized as an Outstanding Adult Learner by the Luzerne County Council on Adult Higher Education (LCCAHE).*
Dunnion was honored during the 37th Annual Outstanding Adult Learner Award Reception held April 21 at King?s College. The annual event celebrates the achievements and contributions of adult learners from institutions across Luzerne County, including Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Misericordia University, King?s College, 天美传媒, and Wilkes University.
A Human Services major at LCCC?s Scranton Center, Dunnion has distinguished herself academically with a 3.94 grade point average while earning 53 credits toward her Associate in Applied Science degree. She is a member of several academic honor societies, including Phi Theta Kappa, Psi Beta, Alpha Sigma Lambda, and Sigma Kappa Delta, and has received multiple academic awards and scholarships recognizing her excellence and leadership.
Beyond the classroom, Dunnion is actively engaged in her community. She volunteers with youth scouting programs, assists with food distribution at St. Paul?s Food Bank, coordinates holiday meals for homebound residents, and provides advocacy and care for elderly individuals in the Scranton area.
Dunnion?s journey to higher education is one of resilience and transformation. "My entry to LCCC wasn?t just about getting a degree; it was about a total transformation of character," she said. "Today, I am over twelve years clean and sober and have become a leader in my program."
She credits her experiences with shaping her academic drive and future goals. After graduating from LCCC, Dunnion plans to transfer to Marywood University to pursue a bachelor?s degree in social work. She hopes to build a career in drug rehabilitation, specializing in co-occurring disorders.
"I intend to spend my career helping others realize that no matter how difficult their past may be, a bright future built on integrity is possible," Dunnion said.
Dunnion said her greatest motivation is her 11-year-old son, who she describes as a high-achieving student and leader. "Every academic achievement and every award I earn is a brick in the foundation I am building for my son?s future," she said.
The LCCAHE Outstanding Adult Learner Award highlights the dedication, perseverance, and accomplishments of adult students who balance academics with work, family, and community responsibilities.
LCCC President John Yudichak on the Community College Conversations Podcast
Please enjoy the ninth installment of the podcast in our series:
天美传媒 National Collegiate Recovery Week Event
天美传媒 hosted a powerful and inspiring event Tuesday as part of National Collegiate Recovery Week, showcasing how opioid settlement funding is transforming student recovery support services and strengthening regional partnerships.*
The event, "Blaze the Trail: Recovery Starts Here," brought together college leadership, community partners, and students to highlight the real and measurable impact of this critical funding. The program emphasized a clear message: Hope. Support. Success.
Speakers included LCCC President John Yudichak, Melissa Wassel, Director of the Center for Student Support & Intervention, Luzerne County Council Chair Jimmy Sabatino, John Cosgrove of the AllOne Foundation, and LCCC student Madison Hayes, who shared a moving personal recovery story. The event was emceed by James Monahan, Certified Recovery & Intake Specialist.
At the center of the event was the growing impact of the AllOne Recovery Educational Institute (AREI), a collaborative initiative between LCCC and the AllOne Foundation that has expanded significantly through opioid settlement funding.
Transforming Education, Recovery, and Workforce Pathways
The impact of opioid settlement funding on AREI has been transformative?expanding access, strengthening student support, and building workforce pipelines across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
One of the most significant developments is the launch of the Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) Training Program. The current cohort includes 20 participants?18 professionals from inpatient and outpatient recovery centers across Luzerne, Lackawanna, Columbia, Northumberland, and Schuylkill counties, along with two AREI students. The program, offered over five weeks, provides comprehensive training while also covering meals and support services for participants. Strong demand has already created a waiting list for future sessions.
Enrollment in AREI has nearly doubled in less than a year, with students now representing a growing multi-county region including Luzerne, Lackawanna, Northumberland, Columbia, Schuylkill, and Wyoming counties. Last semester alone, the program provided nearly $30,000 in tuition and textbook assistance, removing financial barriers for students in recovery. This spring, 12 AREI students are graduating, with several continuing their education at four-year institutions.
Expanding Partnerships and Regional Impact
The program has also strengthened partnerships across the recovery and human services network, with increased referrals from organizations such as Blakeslee Outpatient, Pyramid Healthcare, Clearbrook Treatment Centers, Huntington Creek Recovery Center, Luzerne County Treatment Court, Columbia County CareerLink?s Reboot Program, Woodhaven Academy, Pathstone, Geisinger?s Free 2 Be Moms program, Wyoming Valley Behavioral Health, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
New partnerships continue to emerge, including outreach from the John Heinz Institute of Rehabilitation and Fresenius Medical Care in Nanticoke, further expanding opportunities for students in recovery.
Building a Stronger Workforce
The workforce impact has been equally significant. More than half of AREI students are currently employed in the human services field, with many advancing in their careers upon completing their studies at LCCC. Additionally, more students are enrolling in skilled trades programs such as plumbing, electrical technology, and industrial maintenance--pathways made more accessible through funding that covers tools, books, and supplies.
Strengthening Student Support Systems
Opioid settlement funding has also enhanced wraparound support services essential to student success. These include a technology loan program providing laptops and calculators, meal support for more than 40 AREI families, and expanded community programming such as the annual Community Resource Fair and the "Stop the Stigma! Start the Support!" event.
The funding also enabled the addition of a Student Support and Resource Specialist, a critical role focused on connecting students with community services and expanding outreach across LCCC?s campuses and partner organizations.
Looking Ahead
LCCC and AREI leaders highlighted continued growth, including future CRS training cohorts, summer workshops focused on life balance and recovery, the second annual Community Resource Fair, and expanded recognition programs for graduating students.
The event concluded with a group photo and media availability, reinforcing a shared commitment among education, healthcare, and community leaders to create lasting recovery pathways.
Opioid settlement funding is not simply supporting a program--it is creating hope, opportunity, second chances, and long-term recovery success for individuals and families across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
LCCC and Misericordia University Announce New Accelerate Your Degree Partnership
天美传媒 and Misericordia University (MU) today announced a new, innovative transfer policy that formally recognizes the academic value of an associate degree earned at LCCC and significantly simplifies the transfer process for students pursuing a bachelor's degree at Misericordia University.*
Under the new policy, students who complete an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) Degree at LCCC will have Misericordia University?s undergraduate core curriculum requirements waived upon transfer. This means students can move more directly into coursework for their chosen major, reducing both the time and cost associated with earning a four-year degree.
"This agreement is a powerful statement about the quality and rigor of an LCCC education," said John Yudichak, president of 天美传媒. "By recognizing the associate degree as a complete and meaningful academic credential, we are helping our graduates save money, avoid unnecessary coursework, and transition more confidently to a bachelor?s degree program."
The policy applies to general education and core curriculum requirements only. Students will still complete all required coursework within their major and any prerequisite courses required for degree completion at Misericordia University. Up to 61 credits from LCCC may transfer toward a Misericordia bachelor?s degree, consistent with university transfer credit policies, and eligible courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
"Misericordia University has long been committed to making higher education accessible and student-centered," said Daniel J. Myers, Ph.D., president of Misericordia University. "We value the rigor of our core curriculum. Similarly, we know that LCCC prepares their students to succeed academically should they choose to pursue a bachelor?s or master?s degree in the future."
A Fresh Start with Purpose: Tiffany Staskiel's Journey to Making a Difference
For Tiffany Staskiel, the path back to college wasn't traditional-but it was exactly the right one.
A graduate of James M. Coughlin High School (Class of 2006), Tiffany first enrolled at 天美传媒 years ago. Life took her in different directions, but nearly two decades later, she made a bold decision-to return to school in Fall 2024 and pursue a degree in Human Services.*
"I hadn?t been in school for 17 or 18 years," Tiffany said. "It was definitely an adjustment--but once I got back into it, everything started to come together."
Now balancing life as a full-time student, mother, and weekend waitress, Tiffany is proving that determination and time management can make even the busiest schedule work. Her motivation is clear: build a better future not only for herself, but for her young son-and for the people she hopes to help.
That purpose recently took a major step forward.
Tiffany was selected for a competitive internship at Children?s Service Center through the Sally Yudichak Fund?an opportunity that has allowed her to apply what she?s learning in the classroom to real-world experiences with children.
"When I heard about the internship, I immediately knew I wanted to do it," she said. "I had worked with adults before, but I really wanted to learn how to support children."
Through her work, Tiffany is gaining firsthand experience in building connections, understanding behavior, and helping children develop social-emotional skills in a supportive environment.
"You can learn theories in class, but seeing it in action is completely different," she explained. "You start to understand the ?why? behind behaviors, and you learn how important connection really is."
The internship has reinforced her passion for helping others?and clarified her future path.
After graduating from LCCC, Tiffany plans to transfer to Misericordia University to pursue her bachelor?s degree in Social Work, taking advantage of the college?s transfer partnerships that save both time and money. Her long-term goal? To become a licensed clinical therapist.
For Tiffany, returning to college later in life has come with challenges--but also perspective.
"I wear a lot of hats," she said. "I?m a mom, a student, I work, and I?m doing this internship. Time management is everything--but if you stay organized and give yourself grace, you can do it."
Her advice to other adult learners considering a return to school is simple but powerful:
"Don?t be afraid to start. The first semester might be tough, but it gets easier. Stick with it--it?s worth it."
This Community College Month, Tiffany Staskiel?s story is a reminder that it?s never too late to start again?and that with the right support, education can open doors to meaningful careers and lasting impact.
From the classroom to the community, Tiffany isn?t just learning--she?s already making a difference.
LCCC Honors Coach Ron Strothers with 200th Career College Win Milestone, Announces Summer Basketball Camp
天美传媒 proudly recognized Head Men's Basketball Coach Ron Strothers for reaching a major career milestone--his 200th career college coaching victory--during a special presentation this April. Strothers earned the milestone win earlier this past season in a 95-85 victory over Misericordia University's development team.*
To commemorate the achievement, Coach Strothers was presented with a ceremonial game ball, celebrating both the milestone victory and his longstanding impact on the Trailblazers basketball program.
The achievement marks a significant moment for one of LCCC?s most dedicated leaders--and one of its own. A former Trailblazer who played for LCCC during the 1989-90 and 1990-91 seasons, Strothers has been a cornerstone of the college?s basketball program for decades. First hired in 1997, he has coached multiple seasons with the men?s program and previously led the women?s basketball teams at Penn State Wilkes-Barre and Wyoming Seminary.
"This one means a lot, especially here at LCCC," Strothers said. "I?ve been blessed to coach so many great players over the years. Milestones come and go, but the relationships and the wins we earn together?that?s what makes it special."
Under Strothers? leadership, LCCC Men?s Basketball continues to develop strong student-athletes on and off the court, building a culture defined by work ethic, pride, and Trailblazer tradition.
"Coach Strothers is an incredible ambassador for LCCC athletics and for our college," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "His dedication to our students and his love for this program shine through in everything he does. We congratulate him on this remarkable achievement."
Summer Basketball Camp Registration Now Open
LCCC is also excited to announce the return of the Trailblazers Summer Basketball Camp, led by Coach Strothers.
LCCC Trailblazers Summer Basketball Camp
June 22-26
9 a.m. -2 p.m.
Open to boys and girls in grades 5-8
Cost: $100
This camp is designed for players of all skill levels looking to improve their game in a fun, supportive environment.
Participants will enjoy:
Skill development drills
Shooting, passing, and ball handling instruction
1-on-1 and 3-on-3 competitions
Hot shot and knock-out contests
Camp t-shirt and refreshments
"Summer camp is one of my favorite parts of the year," Strothers added. "It?s a great opportunity to teach the fundamentals, build confidence, and share the love of the game with the next generation."
Register online: /micro/details.jsp?c=42
天美传媒: Training Pennsylvania's Workforce
On This Week's PMA Perspective, we're highlighting the critical role community colleges play in strengthening Pennsylvania's workforce and economy.*
PMA President & CEO David N. Taylor visits 天美传媒 for an in-depth conversation with President John Yudichak, Vice President of Academic Affairs Russ Bigus, and Jason Sherill, Faculty in Automotive Technology.
Together, they discuss how LCCC is preparing students for in-demand careers, aligning academic programs with industry needs, and creating pathways to family-sustaining jobs right here in Pennsylvania.
From hands-on technical training to partnerships with local employers, this episode showcases how community colleges are driving workforce development and expanding opportunity across the Commonwealth.
天美传媒 Welcomes Dr. Oz to Highlight Nursing Workforce Expansion
天美传媒's nursing program hosted Rob Bresnahan Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, on Thursday for a tour focused on workforce training and strengthening the region's nursing pipeline.*
Bresnahan, who represents Pennsylvania?s 8th Congressional District, joined Oz at LCCC?s Francis and Mary Gill-Corozza Health Science Center, where they observed students engaged in hands-on clinical training. The visit included classroom instruction, simulation labs, ultrasound demonstrations, CPR practice and immersive virtual reality patient encounters.
"We had an incredible opportunity to meet with some of our next-generation nursing students and see the opportunities 天美传媒 has to offer," Bresnahan said. "We got to experience virtual reality and see the passion and energy about the future of health care in northeastern Pennsylvania."
During the tour, Oz and Bresnahan watched students perform CPR before taking turns completing chest compressions themselves. They also observed pregnancy ultrasound instruction and simulated childbirth training, speaking directly with students and faculty about curriculum requirements and career pathways.
The visit concluded with a virtual reality demonstration that simulates patient encounters, including routine checkups and more complex clinical scenarios. Both officials donned VR headsets to experience the training firsthand as instructors explained how the technology prepares students for real-world patient care.
Oz emphasized the vital role community colleges play in addressing the nation?s nursing shortage.
"I must say our biggest shortage, I think, in America right now, is nursing," Oz said. "We?re looking for ways of getting more people trained in community colleges because we know when nurses train in a community, they stay in the community."
Oz highlighted federal investments in rural and regional health care workforce development, including funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program, which will provide $50 billion to states between 2026 and 2030. Pennsylvania received $193 million this year to support rural health initiatives.
Earlier in the day, Oz and Bresnahan also toured the Regional Hospital of Scranton as part of Oz?s Northeast Pennsylvania visit.
Federal Investment Expands LCCC Nursing Capacity
LCCC President John Yudichak discussed a four-year grant awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services? Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The $507,318 annual award ? totaling more than $2 million through 2029 ? will allow the college to expand specialized long-term and acute care training for nursing students.
"The investment that the federal government is making in 天美传媒 - over half a million dollars a year for four years -- that?s going to allow us to hire talented faculty," Yudichak said.
Two full-time faculty members have been hired to develop the specialized curriculum, along with two clinical liaisons, ESL support faculty and student success faculty. All positions are fully funded through the federal grant.
The grant also provides up to 100 percent tuition reimbursement for students who complete 80 hours of optional specialized training and commit to working in underserved areas. The new training component launches this spring.
Yudichak noted that the program's expansion is already increasing enrollment capacity. This fall, LCCC expects to welcome a class of 220 nursing students -- the largest incoming class in recent years.
"This kind of funding helps us close the gap and put nurse professionals on the floor of the hospital," Yudichak said.
College leaders say the continued growth of LCCC?s nursing program is critical to addressing regional workforce shortages and ensuring high-quality care throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Students get college headstart with high school program
2822 News: Paola's Parenting Playbook:
A unique program at a local community college is giving high school students a headstart into their college careers. For families, it can mean huge savings, and for students, it's a chance to explore career paths and transition into college life.
Madison Dias of White Haven is making the most of her senior year in a unique and ambitious way. A student at Hazleton Area Cyber Academy, she's completing her high school education online while also getting a head start on her future.*
"I was always a learner and wanted to get a head start on my career," Dias said.
At just 18, Madison is enrolled at 天美传媒, where she?s taking college-level courses through the school?s Early College Program, earning credits before even receiving her high school diploma. "I took anatomy and physiology last fall and was in a classroom here at the main campus, and I loved it,? Dias said. "It?s just a great experience, the professor?s right there, you?re able to talk to them if you have any questions. It?s a lot easier than online."
Right now, Dias is taking Sociology and Psychology courses at LCCC. Not only is Madison earning transferable college credits, but her tuition is also free thanks to a scholarship. "Madison is covered by a scholarship opportunity through EITC funding, which is tax-deductible through local business donor who gives money, and so then they get tax credits for it," Maria DeLucca, Dean of Early College and Educational Partnerships said. "It?s for students K through 12 but being those students are enrolled in college, the money can be used to pay for their tuition."
"It?s a lot different than high school, you can make your own schedule, the professors work with you, they want you to succeed," Dias said. "So it?s totally different perspective than high school."
For students who don?t take Early College Courses at LCCC?s Main Campus, they have the option of taking courses at one of the seven satellite campuses throughout the area.
"The primary benefit of Early college is really the success that students find in early college, which then leads to further success in post-secondary education," DeLucca said. As for Dias, she is set to graduate high school in June. In the fall, she will begin her college journey full time at LCCC working towards a career in respiratory therapy or nursing.
Without a scholarship, LCCC credits are $75 each. Those interested can visit LCCC?s Early College page.
天美传媒 Hosts 57th Commencement Ceremony
WILKES-BARRE TWP, PA, May 29, 2025 天美传媒 proudly hosted its 57th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 29, at the Mohegan Arena, celebrating a landmark occasion for the College and its students. This year marked President John Yudichak's first commencement as LCCC's eighth president, adding special significance to the event.*
Nearly 600 graduates were honored for their academic achievements in programs ranging from associate degrees to certificates and diplomas.
The Class of 2025 included:
336 Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
155 Associate of Science (AS)
73 Certificates (CS)
39 Diplomas
Graduates ranged in age from 17 to 64, reflecting LCCC?s mission to serve students of all backgrounds and life stages.
Ceremony Highlights
The evening began with a presentation of colors by the Battery B First Battalion 109th Field Artillery Color Guard, followed by the National Anthem performed by Trinity Brown.
President Yudichak welcomed graduates and guests, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, families, and friends. "Tonight, we are here to celebrate our graduates? success," he stated, expressing appreciation for the faculty and staff who support student achievement.
Board Chair Attorney Catherine O?Donnell followed with remarks on the power of community support in student success. Dr. Janis Wilson Seeley, President of the Faculty Association, introduced the evening?s principal speaker, Attorney David Pedri.
In an inspiring keynote, Pedri acknowledged the sacrifices and determination required to earn a college degree. "You should each be incredibly proud," he said, urging graduates to see this milestone not as an end, but a beginning: "This degree is not a finish line?it is a starting line for the next step."
Quoting Zig Ziglar, Pedri concluded: "You don?t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great."
Honoring Student Achievement
Among the highlights of the evening was the student address delivered by Emily Elizabeth Weidner, who graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Professional Writing. Her speech, "Changing the World," reflected on the transformative power of education and encouraged fellow graduates to embrace their potential to make a difference.
The LCCC Alumni Association also presented two prestigious awards:
Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award to Shelby Eileen Ford for academic excellence and campus involvement.
Outstanding Adult Learner Graduate Award to Frantzcy Bazelais, recognizing perseverance and leadership in balancing education with life responsibilities.
A Celebration of Progress and Purpose
The 2025 Commencement Ceremony reflected a year of innovation, resilience, and progress at LCCC. As students transition into careers or further education, the college remains committed to supporting their continued success and to building a brighter future for Northeastern Pennsylvania.
天美传媒 congratulates the Class of 2025 and extends sincere thanks to all who supported their journey.
Associate in Applied Science
Bradley Adams, Scranton; Courtney Adomiak, Plymouth; Angelica Allen, Sugar Notch; Kaylee Ameen, Pittston Twp.; Olivia Andress, Shavertown; James Antall, Dallas; Lauren Apichell, Kulpmont; Michael Apichella, White Haven; Mackenzie Bakale, Plymouth; Cortnee Bardo, Millville; Frantzcy Bazelais, Scranton; Tamie Beach, Berwick; Mark Becker, Freeland; Dominick Bellanco, Pittston; Matthew Bellis, Coal Township; Jessica Bernotas, Mount Carmel; Stephen Berrettini, Hanover Township; Adrianna Betcher, Berwick; Emily Betley, Bloomsburg; Diana Biletskaya, Wilkes Barre; Trinity Bobis, Freeland; Cristal Bonilla, Wilkes Barre; Kaitlyn Bookwalter, Northumberland; Gabriella Boos, Shavertown; Logan Borsavage, Pittston; Johnny Bossler, Mount Carmel; Alyssa Bouch, Pittston; Ashley Bowman, Shickshinny; Aaliyah Braham, Wilkes Barre; Ashlynn Brenneis, Roaring Brook Twp; Leann Brunamonti, Clarks Summit; Christopher Buckley, Wilkes Barre; Rebecca Buerger, Shickshinny; Denise Burgos, Nanticoke; Addie Burkland, Danville; John Campano, White Haven; Pablo Carino, Wilkes Barre; Laura Carnevale, Mountain Top; Amy Casagrande, Drums; Abril Castillo, Wilkes Barre; Cleidy Castillo, Hazleton; Karen Caton, Pittston; Christian Cepeda Uceta, Freeland; Julian Cerullo, Hazleton; Fabien Charles Keith, Scranton; Gia Cianfichi, Pittston; Alexander Cimochowski, Kingston; Carly Cizewski, Millville; Lynsi Cobb, Wyalusing; Lauri Colon Japa, Hanover Township; Kati Comstock, Berwick; Ryan Cooper, Shavertown; Riza Marie Corbo, Dallas; Sephina Cornwall, Dupont; Diofranny Correa, Hazleton; Maria Cortellini, Mount Carmel; Sarah Croak, Selinsgrove; Taylor Cromyak, Shamokin; Alyssa Cruz, Wilkes Barre; Sean Cuba, Dallas; Julia Darby, Wilkes Barre; Tunisha Davidson, Tobyhanna; Alexis Dawson, Bloomsburg; Marleny De la Cruz Paulino, Sugarloaf; Paige Dean, Kingston; Lauren Deitrick, Dallas; Katelyn Deitz, Sunbury; Nadia Delicati, Dalton; Amy Demarzo, Mountain Top; Cameron Dennis, Nanticoke; Amy Depa, Danville; Kisayri Disla, Wilkes Barre; Miguel Disla, Wilkes Barre; Maximilian Dommes, Kingston; Joshua Doughton, Edwardsville; Katelyn Downs, Nanticoke; Sara Drumheiser, Shamokin; Shelline Duberry, Bear Creek; Daniel Dudick, Dallas; Zayden Ebbecke, Larksville; Victor Eckrote, Berwick; Anthony Egidio, Plains; Antonella Esparza Cervantes, Wapwallopen; Nickolene Espinal, Berwick; Ayla Espinoza, Wilkes Barre; Isabella Evans, White Haven; Paige Evans, Tunkhannock; Stephanie Evans, Nanticoke; KiLee Favors, Glen Lyon; Adrianna Fernandez, Berwick; Haileigh Foley, Hunlock Creek; Shelby Ford, Weatherly; Brian Fosse, Catawissa; Jada Fought, Berwick; James Fox, Scott Township; Carlita France, Larksville; Jennifer Franklin, Hunlock Creek; Noah Frask, Drums; Kaylee Frits, Northumberland; Asamichelle Frost, Wilkes Barre; Ann Fuchs, West Hazleton; Tara Full, Nescopeck; Gillian Garcia, Tamaqua; Joshua Garcia, Ashley; Selenia Garcia, Nanticoke; Adam Gatusky, Ashley; Amir Gibson, Philadelphia; Tyler Gillespie, Forty Fort; Ivan Gingo, Shavertown; Nicholas Giza, Plymouth; Trent Giza, Plymouth; Erica Glace, South Williamsport; Patrick Glanzmann, Marion Heights; Nicholas Godin, Shavertown; Robert Gorski, Wilkes Barre; Lauren Granville, Jefferson; Tierra Green, Pittston; Jessica Greene, Wilkes Barre; Colvin Grick, Susquehanna; Sarah Hamby, South Abington Township; Jessi Hamm, Williamsport; Eric Hanley, Shavertown; Karli Hanson, Honesdale; Colin Haraschak-Kiddish, Berwick; Maria Hartman, Benton; William Hartwick, Mountain Top; Fallon Hartzel, Berwick; Owen Heintzelman, Shickshinny; Charles Heizenroth IV, West Pittston; Monique Helwig, Catawissa; Thomas Hennigan, Pittston; Dania Hernandez, Beaver Meadows; Randy Hernandez, Scranton; Cesarina Herrera Antigua, Wyoming; Penny Hess, Bloomsburg; Juelisa Hines, Wilkes Barre; Kimberly Holguin, Nanticoke; Gregory Holt, Mountain Top; Haley Hoogland, Ashland; Daniel Horan, Wilburton; Amy Hosmer, Edwardsville; Alexandra Hudock, sugarloaf; Ashlee Hules, Luzerne; Julian Hummel, Selinsgrove; Abigail Hunter, Dallas; Anna Jakubczak, Nanticoke; Maria Jimenez Suaza, Mountain Top; Amber Jones, Wilkes Barre; Jordyn Jones, Hunlock Creek; Samantha Jones, Dallas; Alyssa Jurevicz, Kulmont; Logan Kamp, Shickshinny; Robert Karpovich, Hanover Township; Makenna Kehoe, Catawissa; Payden Kehoe, Nescopeck; Jordan Kelley, Dallas; Kali Kennedy, Freeland; Joseph Kitchen, Selinsgrove; Joseph Knipp, Mocanaqua; Buddhi Koirala, Scranton; Eden Koprowski, Dupont; William Kostak, Wilkes Barre; Laci Kostelnick, Wilkes Barre; Ryan Kostiuk, Mountain Top; Carter Kramer, Shamokin; Kaitlyn Krasucki, Bloomsburg; Ashley Krise, Kulpmont; Athena Krouse, Nanticoke; Hannah Kruger, Archbald; William Kucharski, Old Forge; Clarke Kupinski, South Abington Township; Lindsey Kwiatkowski, Dalton; Mandy Kyzer, Dickson City; Lis Labar Santos, Scranton; Yanilsa Laureano Frias, Wilkes Barre; Anastasia Lawson, Nanticoke; Victorya Lenz, Ashley; Pamela Lewis, Wilkes Barre; Nicholas Lizbinski, Sugarloaf; Kayla Longo, Wilkes Barre; Lauren Lont, Mountain Top; Abigail Loucks, Exeter; Madisyn Lutz, Harvey's Lake; Briann Lynn-Peters, Bloomsburg; Jenifer Mailander, Orangeville; Theresa Makowski, Wilkes Barre Twp; Alec Malloy, Hazleton; Meghan Marlott, Wyoming; Jessica Marsch, Hazle Twp; Rosmery Marte Zapata, Wilkes Barre; Catherine Martoccio, Hazle Township; Jonyshin Matos Lucas, Hazleton; Jamie Matusick, Hazle Township; Joshua Maxwell, Clarks Summit; Donovan McCall, Wilkes Barre; Samantha McDonald, Drums; Julie McMurtrie, Nescopeck; Corinna McTavich, Mount Carmel; Angel Miller, Laurel Run; Edwin Molina, Wilkes Barre; Shyla Monserrate, nanticoke; Robin Moore Irimagha, Wilkes Barre; Jillian Morgan, Elysburg; Paige Motsko, Plains; Barry Moyer, Ashland; Sarah Muntzenberger, Drums; Anthony Muskas, Larksville; Reggie Nazarro, Avoca; Zakee Nettles, Exeter; Kaylee Nice, Swoyersville; Miranda Nichols, Shickshinny; Paola Nina Rojas, Wilkes Barre; Anna Nowak, White Haven; Alexandra O'Connor, Nanticoke; Diana Ogendi, Tobyhanna; Jake Olean, Wilkes Barre; Savannah Oliver, Ashley; Rikelmy Ortiz Del Villar, Berwick; Alexi Ostroski, Pringle; Keara Paniagua, Plymouth; Yuti Patel, Drums; Arisbeth Pavia, Wilkes Barre; Madyson Pendolphi, Dallas; Ana Peralta Nunez, Hazleton; Anayely Peralta Plasencia, Hazleton; Reynaldo Perez, Wilkes Barre; Yohanly Perez, Hazleton; Betsy Persing, Danville; Karlee Peters, Pringle; Yekaterina Petrash, White Haven; Madison Phillips, Mountain Top; Diana Portes Vargas, West Hazleton; Christian Potestio, Hazleton; Yosori Quezada Tejeda, Mountain Top; Hailey Rambus, Hunlock Creek; Hannah Redwood, Wilkes Barre; Christopher Reed, Danville; Sydney Renninger, Herndon; Alanah Rinish, Wilkes Barre; Anthony Rivera, Warminster; Kristin Roberts, Pringle; Amelia Robinson, Milan; Uriel Robles, Wilkes Barre; Antonela Rodriguez, Hazleton; Ashley Roeder, Bloomsburg; Alejandra Romero, Wilkes Barre; Jazlyn Alexioa Romero-Ramos, Hazle Township; Stephanie Rossi, Nanticoke; Robert Rowe, Sunbury; Rebekah Rowles, Wilkes Barre; Charles Ruckle, Mountain Top; Lilly Rudaski, Nanticoke; Sara Russo-Miller, Taylor; Jesse Rybak, Mountain Top; Mackenzie Salmonsen, Wilkes Barre; Wanda Sanchez, Hazleton; Abigail Sauers, Nanticoke; Ayla Savage, Lake Ariel; Lindsay Schuck, Shamokin; Samantha Schwartz, Hunlock Creek; Oshana Scotland, Wilkes Barre; Julia Scott, Wyoming; Andrea Segura, Shamokin; Destiny Selert, Bloomsburg; Aidan Shamaski, Hanover Township; Morgan Shedletsky, Swoyersville; Sandra Shelley, West Pittston; Breanna Shellhamer, Beaver Meadows; Mark Sheply, Larksville; Samantha Shingara, Watsontown; Stephanie Shoup, Bloomsburg; Brandi Shovlin, Shickshinny; Conner Silliman, Beaver Meadows; Faith Situmeang, Scranton; Amanda Skupski, Ashley; Jusaun Smalling, Wilkes Barre; Ashley Ingutu Smith, Pleasant Mount; Jessica Smith, Hughestown; Naquan Smith Jr, Hazle Township; John Sobocinski, Dallas; Yesly Solano Novas, Wilkes Barre; Mason Sorber, Hunlock Creek; Bryna Soriano, Wilkes Barre; Lacey Souders, Jermyn; Jillian Spak, Mountain Top; Ashley Stacknick, Forty Fort; Autumn Steibler, Nesquehoning; Hannah Stetler, Danville; Jacob Stillarty, Sweet Valley; Donna Stobodzian, Wilkes Barre; Patricia Stone, Kingsley; Tyler Strawser, Milton; Amelia Strope, Scranton; Meghan Sweeney, Honesdale; Eris Syla, Courtdale; Kaylin Szychowski, Taylor; Gena Talanca, Berwick; Diego Taylor, Bloomsburg; Thavian Taylor, Wilkes Barre; Jeffrey Terpak, Dupont; Jessica Thomas, Shavertown; Shawn Timbrell, Berwick; Alec Todd, Nanticoke; Odetta Todd, Wilkes Barre; Susan Toth, Nescopeck; Molly Tredinnick, Wilkes Barre; Donna Turkos, Nanticoke; Samuel Turkos, Nanticoke; Jenna Tutorow, Shickshinny; Obishirike Uchenna-Okafor, Scranton; Elizabeth Varner, Wilkes Barre; Alexander Veety, Scranton; Rachel Voychuk, West Wyoming; Gabrielle Walker, Williamsport; Adam Walp, Dallas; Katie Watkins, Bloomsburg; Hunter Webby, Wapwallopen; Heather Weidman, Bloomsburg; Brandon Wejkszner, Mountain Top; Christopher Werley, Olyphant; Casey Whalen, Shavertown; Brianna Wickiser, Mountain Top; Bobbie Williams, Laurel Run; Kayla Williams, Coal Township; Latasha Williams, Nanticoke; Catherine Wise, Frankford; Alexander Witcoskie, Millville; Nicole Woodruff, Catawissa; Dylan Wysocki, Nanticoke; Jenna Yohe, Berwick; Paige Yorks, Benton; Mark Zluchowski, Wilkes Barre Twp.
Associate in Science
Keyur Adhyapak, Scranton; Jessica Airhart, Wilkes Barre; Seline Alburquerque, Wilkes Barre; Samil Aracena Garcia, Hazleton Township; Katie Arnold, Nanticoke; Melanie Atchue, Larksville; Elizabeth Barlet, Sweet Valley; Ashley Bath, Plymouth; Taylor Bath, Hanover Township; Ronald Bishop, Bloomsburg; Jessica Bittner, Hazleton; Timothy Bogart, Nescopeck; Rhiley Bridal, Shickshinny; Lexi Brink, Glen Lyon; Madeline Brink, Muncy; Tianna Brunson, Kingston; Alise Buckingham, Nanticoke; Michael Cangiarella, Duryea; Alan Cardoso, Wilkes Barre; Gabrielle Cerreta, Bloomsburg; John Ciechoski, West Wyoming; Brittny Corbett, Wilkes Barre; Maia Costagliola, Pittston; Topeaka Covelusky, Bloomsburg; Lea Crawford, Drums; Amy Dana Mayernick, Bloomsburg; Amerie Daniel, Wilkes Barre; Alaine Davis, Wilkes Barre; Bryant Del Toro, Tobyhanna; Aaron Delacruz-Duran, Wilkes Barre; Christopher Demark, Duryea; Karen Devan, Catawissa; Morgan Dixon-Clark, Dallas; Emily Dombroski, Wapwallopen; Kelly Doran, Freeland; Joanna Douglas, Nanticoke; Kimberly Dudra, Sunbury; Jangel Duran, Hazleton; Ashley Duran Rojas, Wilkes Barre; Savannah Easley, Bloomsburg; Jessica Edwards, Wilkes Barre; Riley Egan, Dallas; Arturo Escamilla, Wilkes Barre; Rosabel Espinal Ruiz, Freeland; Ashley Estevez, Nanticoke; Imani Euqehart, Edwardsville; Emily Fagerlin, Scranton; Jessica Fetty-Pearson, Ashley; Julia Furcon, Exeter; Cynthia Gadsden, Wilkes Barre; Kenny Garcia Ricardo, Wilkes Barre; McKenzie Gaul, Old Forge; Evan Grandoit, Ashley; Guranshu Grover, Wilkes Barre; Isabel Grudzinski, Wilkes Barre; Kaila Hartman, Plymouth; Nicole Heller, Sugar Notch; Sierrah Henderson, Wilkes Barre; Matthew Henninger, Mount Carmel; Leeanne Ibriga, Nanticoke; Evan Janis, Swoyersville; Noah Johnson, Ulster; Kendra Kehrli, Conyngham; Hanna Keller, Catawissa; Savannah Kent, Bloomsburg; Shezan Khetani, Hazleton; Sadie Komara, Coal Township; Adam Koraich, Shamokin; Abigail Kush, Wilkes Barre; Melissa Kwiatek, Nanticoke; Trevor Leatherman, Wapwallopen; Lakelen LeClere, Beach Lake; Shea Lello, Avoca; Alexander Lindbuchler, Shavertown; Kevin Lloyd, Kingston; Jonathan Loiselle, South Abington; Matthew Lorimer, Muncy; Lauren Marsico, Wilkes Barre; Kristen Martin, West Pittston; Marie Martin, Dunmore; Jazmine Martinez Torres, Hazleton; Heather Maurer, Berwick; Zachary McCabe, Pittston; Lauren McLaughlin, Bloomsburg; Matthew McMullen, Bear Creek Township; Deborah Meck, Nanticoke; Melissa Mena Tejada, Shenandoah; Edwin Mercado, Wilkes Barre; Stacy Meredith, Mount Carmel; Helana Miller, Nanticoke; John Minor, Wilkes Barre; Linciany Montilla, Hazleton; Nicole Morales, Hazleton; Makayla Moroskie, Sunbury; Ann Nace, Wilkes Barre; Michael Nagy, Dupont; Kaydence Ney, Wapwallopen; Jesse Nienhueser, Bloomsburg; Kevin Norman, Drums; Christine Olivencia, Kingston; Grace Pachick, Mountain Top; Alison Park, Nanticoke; Joyce Parry, Mountain Top; Kaushalkumar Patel, Scranton; Mykala Patel, Berwick; Liz Mar Paulino, West Pittston; Leah Payne, Kingston; Luis Perez, Hazleton; Amy Peters, Luzerne; Masen Pieczynski, Wyoming; William Preston, Wilkes Barre; Kelsey Pritchard, Hunlock Creek; Christine Angel Ramos, Hazleton; Melodi Raskiewicz, Larksville; Jessica Reed, Shavertown; Karla Richiez Martinez, Wilkes Barre; Brittany Ritsick, Plymouth; Ezequiel Rodriguez, Scranton; Lizbeth Rodriguez, Hazle Township; Pamela Rumbel, White Haven; Cristian Sanchez, Scranton; Dana Santine, Swoyersville; Ashley Santos, Hazleton; Magdalen Schneider, White Haven; Alexandria Serafin, Harding; Abbygale Serrano, Hazleton; Libby Shingara, Coal Township; Jace Sigelkow Jr, Jenkins Township; Emily Silva, Duryea; Jocelyn Sosa, Wilkes Barre; Maci Stackhouse, Bloomsburg; Kaelyn Strish, Shickshinny; Collin Thomas, Nanticoke; Emma Thomas, Glen Lyon; Brooks Thompson, Kingston; Tanya Tlatenchi, Hanover Township; Chriscel Avril Tolentino, Swoyersville; Bielka Torres, Hazleton; Eli Trocki, Kingston; Tyler Ulitchney, Hanover Township; Ivan Urena, Avoca; Felipe Vargas, Plains; Sarah Vazquez, Shamokin; Wanda Walker, Wilkes Barre; Emily Weidner, Dallas; Evan Wejkszner, Mountain Top; Kiyanna Wheeler, Luzerne; Denise Woodruff, Ashland; Dongjun Wu, Mount Carmel; Thomas Yerkes, Bloomsburg; Lorena Zangre, Jessup.
Certificate of Specialization
Joe Dens Augustin, Wilkes Barre; Andre Bell, Hazleton; Tara Bomgardner, Jonestown; James Cassarella, Wilkes Barre; Carlos Castro Mercedes, Hazleton; Nyemia Chalmers, Wilkes Barre; Samuel Clayton, Kingston; Kaitlyn Cleary, Avoca; Dylan Clewell, Wilkes Barre; Ryan Conklin, Wapwallopen; James Cundro, Hazleton; Nicholas Danishefsky, Mountain Top; James DeAndrea Jr, Berwick; Benjamin Emershaw, Wyoming; Owen Ewing, Frackville; Kevin Falahee, Pittston; Beth Fisher, Mountain Top; Taylor Forry, Drums; Brenden Fuentes, Hazleton; Phineas Gadd, Plainfield; Anson George, Dallas; Alexander Gonzalez, Hanover Township; Lazaro Gonzalez, Wilkes Barre; Dannellys Guillen, Freeland; Thomas Hack, Danville; Logan Harding, Exeter; Megan Harrigfeld, Peckville; Nathan Higgins, Mountain Top; Thomas Himlin, Hudson; Autumn Huseby, Mahanoy City; Stephen Inman, White Haven; Erin Jopling, Exeter; Bryce Kuhr, Berwick; Natalie MacDonald, Mountain Top; Michael Marcella, Nanticoke; Amanda Marrero, Wilkes Barre; Allen Martinez, Hazleton; Nicole McFarland, Hazle Township; Adelio Merlino, West Pittston; Michael Miller, Shavertown; Carolina Montes, Pittston; Clayton Moore, Nanticoke; Chantelly Morales, Wilkes Barre; Joseph Nowakowski, Exeter; Enguelbert Nunez, Wilkes Barre; Charlotte Olsen, Bloomsburg; John Ortiz, Throop; John Pacheco, Hazleton; Ryan Padgett, Frenchtown; Anthony Policare, Pittston; Jade Purta, Kingston; Marco Rosario, Hazleton; Frederick Roskos, Harvey's Lake; Arthur Sauer, Freeland; Lucas Scheitrumpf, Nanticoke; John Schroeder, Barnesville; James Sharp, Drums; Nero Sosa-Amigon, Wilkes Barre; Bethany Stolz, Bloomsburg; Jalen Strothers, Wilkes Barre; Morgan Tannery, Wilkes Barre; Andrew Tapia, Scranton; Sophy Tavarez Rivera, Scranton; Carolina Taveras, Hazleton; Hernan Torres, Hazleton; Jesse Tutino, Scranton; Benjamin Ulitchney, Nanticoke; April Watkins, Wilkes Barre; Cheyenne Weida, Hanover Township; Haleigh Weitz, Lehighton; Kevin Yerg, West Hazleton.
Diploma
Ahmed Abdul Qawi, Shavertown; Jasmine Acosta, Hazleton; Brittany Annis, Ranshaw; Aiden Bacon, Bloomsburg; Katherine Bailey, Easton; Megan Beltranena, Berwick; Lisha Burgos Almonte, Hazleton; Kimberlee Dent, Tunkhannock; Caleb Eisenhauer, Wapwallopen; Crystal Evans, Scranton; Frances Frankovsky, Scott Township; Guiliana Garcia, Hanover Township; Craig Haytmanek, Bloomsburg; Kelsey Henahan, Wilkes Barre; Grace Hollister, Waymart; Sierra Jendrzejewski, Kulpmont; Carl Kiwak, Harding; Amber Klinkiewicz, Scott Township; Nathaniel Marconi, Hanover Township; Antoinette Maresca, Pocono Lake; Patrick Martz, Mountain Top; Mikaela Masich, Larksville; Tatum Maslousky, Kingston; McKaylee McCormick, Bloomsburg; Lillian Meese, West Pittston; Nacheli Mejia, Wilkes Barre; Erich Merrel-Stiller, Mountain Top; Jessica Miller, Bloomsburg; Sarah Minella, Pittston; Diana Morrobel Mena, Hazleton; Melinda Nivar, Allentown; Yohanna Robles Abreu, Hazleton; Andrea Smith, Nescopeck; Christina Snyder, Bloomsburg; Logan Tompkins, Wilkes Barre; Fiona Wormuth, Deposit.
LCCC launches free career academy to boost skilled workforce
FOX 56 News
Wednesday June 4, 2025
By: Elizabeth Haikes
LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) -- In an effort to build a stronger skilled workforce in northeastern Pennsylvania, 天美传媒 has officially launched the LCCC Career and Technology Academy. This program partners with the region's three major Career and Technical Centers: Hazleton Area, Wilkes-Barre Area, and West Side.*
"These courses are free of charge, no tuition because of the scholarships and because of the dual enrollment grant in the early stages of this academy," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "You?re going to be able to find out, do I want to be in HVAC? Do I want to be in plumbing? Do I want to be in welding? Do I want to do computer technology? You?re going to be able to take those courses, find out where your strengths, pursue a career and a college degree."
The program is funded by a $1 million Dual Credit Innovation Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, along with $150,000 in private scholarships. Local entrepreneur and president of Mark Construction, William Rinaldi, personally contributed $100,000 through a named scholarship fund.
"I look at this program as a gateway for people in our area to have the opportunity to have a well-sustaining job and also bring larger companies into the area?knowing we have the workforce to work here," said Rinaldi.
This spring, 27 students became the academy?s first class, taking hands-on courses in welding, electrical technology, HVAC, plumbing, culinary, early childhood education, and more all while still enrolled in high school.
A 2023 state analysis revealed a 61,000-worker credential gap including over 12,000 in trades like maintenance and repair. Pennsylvania would need to boost postsecondary attainment by 4.4 percent just to close the gap.
"Every trade is looking for guys. There are zero guys on the sheet metal books, zero guys on the electrician book. We need skilled labor?and this program is the best thing I?ve seen in a long time," said J&E Sheet Metal president Bill Feist.
The goal is not just a degree, but a clear and affordable path to a sustainable career and a solution to a growing workforce crisis.
Breaking the stigma around mental health at LCCC
2822 News Joe Mason
NANTICOKE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)-- A local community college is taking a unique approach to tackling the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Stop the stigma, start the support; That was the message at 天美传媒 on Tuesday.*
The college hosted a talk-show style forum focused on mental health and substance use. Chelsea Bresnahan hosted the event.
"I think the biggest takeaways from today's conversation involve being open, being honest, holding yourself accountable, and not comparing yourself to other people," Bresnahan stated.
The event featured stories from those who have lived through the struggles of addiction and mental illness.
The one common theme among all of them: the importance of a strong support system.
"If it weren't for having such a supportive family, like my aunt Sue, I wouldn't have been able to get into treatment," forum participant, Rick Frey, said.
"Most of the time, people in active addiction or struggling with mental health are isolated, and so, the opposite of addiction is connection, and I think that is so important for people to be involved in the community and to feel that they have that support," Danielle Castrigano, a forum participant, added.
28/22 News spoke to two of the participants and asked them the same question: What do you say to those who are currently struggling.
"It's okay. It?s okay to ask for help. You know, in that moment of vulnerability is when you?re going to find that first step to take the power," expressed Frey.
"There?s a way out, you know, you don?t need to continue on that chaotic cycle of addiction and mental health. You can break free," Castrigano stated.
Students and faculty participated in trivia games and checked out raffle and community resources tables with additional information.
天美传媒 Foundation Dinner Celebrates Scholarships, Students, and Community Impact
The 天美传媒 Foundation hosted its annual Foundation Scholarship Celebration Dinner on Saturday, October 4, at the Westmoreland Club in Wilkes-Barre, bringing together more than 300 guests for an inspiring evening of generosity, gratitude, and celebration of student success.*
The event, emceed by Dan Landesberg, Associate Vice President of Clinical Operations at Geisinger Northeast and President of the LCCC Foundation Board of Directors, highlighted the life-changing impact of scholarships on Luzerne?s "Trailblazer" students.
"Tonight is about students, opportunity, and impact--celebrating the ways your generosity changes lives and transforms our community," Landesberg said in his opening remarks. "We are delighted to gather here surrounded by friends, supporters, and champions of education."
Celebrating Record-Setting Support
LCCC President John Yudichak delivered a powerful keynote address celebrating a record-breaking year for the Foundation.
"The generosity of the scholarship donors we celebrate tonight changes the lives of our students in meaningful and tangible ways," President Yudichak said. "Your support gives them the resources they need to reach for their dreams."
He announced that the evening raised more than $222,000 in sponsorships and donations, including $100,000 in new EITC funds and one of the College?s largest individual gifts in history--the $100,000 William Raldi Career and Technology Academy Scholarship.
"All of it--every dollar--is for the trailblazing students of 天美传媒," Yudichak said to resounding applause. "Your friendship, partnership, and generosity are transforming lives."
President Yudichak also extended heartfelt congratulations to the evening?s award honorees: Fork Over Love, the O?Donnell Law Offices, and the Tambur Family Foundation, recognizing their enduring commitment to community and education.
"These families--the Selingo, O?Donnell, and Tambur families--are compassionate and visionary leaders," Yudichak said. "Their friendship and support of our College are truly extraordinary."
From Scholarship Recipient to State Leader
The evening?s featured speaker, Dr. Lynette Kuhn, a proud LCCC alumna and now Deputy Secretary and Commissioner for Postsecondary and Higher Education for Pennsylvania, shared her personal story of resilience and the pivotal role LCCC played in her life.
"When I first arrived at Luzerne, I carried both nerves and hope," Dr. Kuhn reflected. "I wasn?t sure if I belonged in higher education, but I was hopeful because I sensed that LCCC was different. This was a place where second chances weren?t just possible--they were celebrated."
Her remarks drew heartfelt applause as she underscored the mission of community colleges to provide opportunity for all.
"Community colleges do not ask, '?Where have you been? They ask, 'Where can you go from here??" she said. "The scholarships you provide are not just checks--they are acts of faith in students? potential. They are the difference between a student saying, 'I had to drop out,? and one saying, 'I graduated because someone believed in me.?"
Dr. Kuhn encouraged students to embrace their journeys and recognize the ripple effect of their achievements.
"Your story matters," she told them. "One day, you will inspire someone else to take their own first step--just as you are inspiring us tonight."
Honoring Community Champions
The Foundation also presented three prestigious Community Awards recognizing outstanding partners in education and service:
Community Champion Award -- Fork Over Love, represented by Tracey Selingo and Samantha Berger, honored for providing thousands of hot meals to those in need, including more than 2,000 meals to LCCC students this year.
Circle of Excellence Award -- O?Donnell Law Offices, in recognition of their long-standing support of scholarships, the student food bank, and the Coats and Boots for Kids program.
Legacy Award -- The Tambur Family Foundation, recognized for nearly two decades of support, including endowing scholarships and funding the Patrick J. Solano Veterans Center.
Full Circle: An Alumnus? Story
LCCC Board of Trustees Chair Robert Bertoni, a 1986 LCCC graduate, shared his own scholarship story, bringing the theme of the night full circle.
"I was one of those kids who didn?t know what he wanted to do with his life," Bertoni recalled. "I received a scholarship--and it changed my whole life. I went on to teach for 35 years, to build a business, and it all started the day I registered at 天美传媒."
A Night of Gratitude and Hope
As the evening concluded, Landesberg reflected on the enduring impact of the Foundation?s mission.
"Every dollar you give, every scholarship you fund, every moment you invest in these students creates a ripple effect--transforming not just one life, but entire families and communities," he said. "Together, we are building a stronger future for Luzerne County and beyond."
Since its founding in 1983, the LCCC Foundation has supported thousands of students through scholarships and program initiatives, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of education.
"By giving," Landesberg said, "you are not only helping students learn today--you are helping them lead tomorrow."
天美传媒 Honors Veterans at Annual Veterans Day Ceremony
2822 News Joe Mason
NANTICOKE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)- November 11 is Veterans Day, a day used to honor those who are currently serving or have served our country. Several events are taking place to honor our veterans, many of which are held at local colleges, including 天美传媒.*
LCCC is hosting its annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Patrick J. Solano Veteran Center in Nanticoke.
The ceremony honors veterans through the singing of the national anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a presentation of the colors.
The program paused to honor 85-year-old Marine Corps veteran Frank Carden for his service and dedication. Carden served during the Vietnam War and in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He attended college more than four decades ago and graduated, but never received his diploma.
"Well, it was a great honor for me. I?ve been looking forward to this for the last 47 years. I received a great education here and had some outstanding teachers," Carden expressed. College President John Yudichak is a longtime friend of Carden, but didn?t know the story until recently.
"It was very special for me to have a family friend here today. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps. To honor him for his service to his country and also honor him as a member of the alumni association of 天美传媒," stated Yudichak.
Both hope ceremonies like these continue to honor veterans for years to come.
"We have so many men and women who have dedicated their lives, and so many men and women who have given their lives," said Carden.
"It?s so important that each new generation of Americans understand the sacrifice that went into building this great nation," Yudichak expressed.
This year also marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
天美传媒 Designated as Pennsylvania's Newest Act 120 Municipal Police Academy
The Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers' Educationand Training Commission (MPOETC) has approved 天美传媒'sapplication to become one of Pennsylvania's newest Act 120 Municipal Police Academies.*To be employed as a police officer in the state of Pennsylvania, an individual mustsuccessfully complete a certified Act 120 Municipal Police Academy training program and pass the MPOETC state certification exam.
Currently, Pennsylvania faces a shortage of more than 1,200 municipal police officers. "The opening of this new Act 120 trainingfacility will give people who dream of becoming police officers a chance to turn their dreaminto reality. The Hazleton City Police Department, like many departments across the USA,is experiencing an officer shortage. The opening of this new center will help add more Act120 classes to this region, said Hazleton City Police Chief Brian Schoonmaker.
MPOTEC is advancing a goal to add 1,000 new municipal police officers in Pennsylvania by adding new Act 120 Municipal Police Academies to recruit and train new cadets interestedin law enforcement careers. Creating new Act 120 Municipal Police Academies helps reduce access and financial barriers for cadets while greatly enhancing the ability of local municipalities to attract certified police officers for their police departments. "The ACT 120Municipal Police Academy at LCCC will be a great benefit to the City of Wilkes-Barre Police Department and all local police departments. LCCC will provide good quality training for incoming officers. This designation will also allow newly hired officers to complete their training locally, thus being cost effective for the City of Wilkes-Barre. I am looking forwardto this partnership with LCCC," said Wilkes-Barre City Mayor George Brown.
天美传媒?s Act 120 Academy will be operated out of the college?s state-of-the-art Public Safety Training Institute on its Nanticoke campus at an accessible tuition rate of $5,950 to complete the program.As a cadet in the program, you will obtain the knowledge and professional skills necessaryto enter the law enforcement field. Graduates are qualified to be hired as officers in cities,boroughs, townships, and municipalities in Pennsylvania. Cadets must successfully complete 27 exams, covering five modules of training, with an average score of 80 percentper module. LCCC plans to operate two cohorts of 25 cadets per cohort of the Act 120Municipal Police Academy beginning in the spring semester of the 2026 school year.
"Luzerne County Community College will always step up to serve the Commonwealth and the communities of northeastern Pennsylvania. The designation as an Act 120 Municipal Police Academy empowers the college to be a powerful partner with the municipalities of northeastern Pennsylvania who are striving to put new police officers on the streets and tokeep their communities safe," said John Yudichak, President of Luzerne CountyCommunity College.
"It gives us another resource to have continuous training for entry-level police officers andwill be helpful in recruiting new police officer candidates," said Wilkes-Barre City PoliceChief Joseph Coffay.
To make an inquiry into becoming a new cadet at LCCC?s Act 120 Municipal PoliceAcademy, please contact Doug Fawbush, LCCC Direct of Public Safety and Security, at(570-740-0305 or [email protected]).
天美传媒 Holds 24th Annual September 11 Remembrance Ceremony and Brick Dedication
天美传媒 honored the lives lost during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and paid tribute to first responders at its 24th Annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony and Brick Dedication, held Thursday morning at the College's Walk of Honor at the Public Safety Training Institute.*
The solemn ceremony featured a processional by bagpiper Christine Palmer, a flag ceremony by representatives of the Nanticoke Fire Department, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by LCCC student representatives from Emergency Medical Services. The event also included the presentation of a memorial wreath, a final alarm tribute, and a benediction delivered by Father Brian Van Fossen of St. Faustina Parish.
天美传媒 President John Yudichak delivered remarks, emphasizing the enduring importance of remembrance.
"For 24 years, the 天美传媒 family has gathered at this site, the Walk of Honor, to host one of the nation?s longest-running memorials to our first responders and to the families who lost loved ones on that tragic September day in 2001," said President Yudichak. "To our first responders and to the families who support them? at 天美传媒 we will always remember, and we shall never forget."
President Yudichak reflected on the origins of the Walk of Honor, dedicated to fallen New York City firefighter Michael Carlo, who lost his life on September 11.
"Thanks to the love and generosity of a grieving mother, Phyllis Carlo, who lost her son NYC Firefighter Michael Carlo at the World Trade Center on 9/11, 天美传媒 was able to build this beautiful Walk of Honor as a tribute to the heroism of firefighter Michael Carlo and to every first responder who laces up their boots to serve and protect our communities," Yudichak said.
The ceremony also featured remarks from John Lombardo, Firefighter/EMT Chair of Luzerne County Council, and Tyler J. Suiters, United States Navy Master-at-Arms First Class Petty Officer, Retired.
President Yudichak noted that moments of national crisis underscore the strength of unity.
"As John Lombardo can assure you, when our communities are threatened, when America is under attack, the divisions among us quickly fade away and we grow strongly united as one community and one nation in defense of the lives and liberties of our family and neighbors," Yudichak said.
The Walk of Honor, established in 2002, stands as a lasting tribute to first responders and their families, and continues to serve as a hallowed place of remembrance for the community.
"God bless our first responders. God bless the families that carry on. And may God bless the United States of America," Yudichak concluded.
LCCC Hosts Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony with New York City Fire Riders
天美传媒 welcomed the New York City Fire Riders Motorcycle Club on Wednesday, September 17, as part of the College?s annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the LCCC Walk of Honor in Nanticoke.* The ceremony paid tribute to the lives lost in the September 11 attacks and honored the legacy of New York City firefighter Michael Carlo, who died in the line of duty at the World Trade Center. The Walk of Honor was created through the efforts of Carlo?s mother, Phylis Carlo, who transformed her loss into an enduring place of remembrance.
"You all bring a powerful and passionate voice to this remembrance ceremony ? a ceremony born of tragedy and a mother?s enduring love for her son," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "Phylis Carlo, the inspiration for the LCCC Walk of Honor, lost her son ? New York City firefighter Michael Carlo ? as he battled the flames at the World Trade Center on 9/11. But she never gave up the warmth and power of his memory, which through this enduring ceremony we will ensure that the memory of Michael Carlo and all of America?s first responders will never be forgotten."
Michael Carlo?s brother also shared memories of him, recalling his dedication and character.
"Michael was a fireman. He was brave, dependable, and dedicated. He worked hard and he did it with a great smile ? that great smile that everyone remembers," he said. "I miss my brother every day, but I?m proud of him every day, too. And I know that if he was here, he?d tell us not to dwell on the loss, but to live, to smile, to take care of one another ? just like he did."
The event drew members of the Fire Riders, students, staff, and community members, all standing in honor of the fallen and in gratitude for the courage of first responders.
The Olympics of the Trades: students putting their skills to the test at LCCC
For Tiffany Staskiel, the path back to college wasn't traditional-but it was exactly the right one.
A graduate of James M. Coughlin High School (Class of 2006), Tiffany first enrolled at 天美传媒 years ago. Life took her in different directions, but nearly two decades later, she made a bold decision-to return to school in Fall 2024 and pursue a degree in Human Services.*
"I hadn?t been in school for 17 or 18 years," Tiffany said. "It was definitely an adjustment--but once I got back into it, everything started to come together."
Now balancing life as a full-time student, mother, and weekend waitress, Tiffany is proving that determination and time management can make even the busiest schedule work. Her motivation is clear: build a better future not only for herself, but for her young son-and for the people she hopes to help.
That purpose recently took a major step forward.
Tiffany was selected for a competitive internship at Children?s Service Center through the Sally Yudichak Fund?an opportunity that has allowed her to apply what she?s learning in the classroom to real-world experiences with children.
"When I heard about the internship, I immediately knew I wanted to do it," she said. "I had worked with adults before, but I really wanted to learn how to support children."
Through her work, Tiffany is gaining firsthand experience in building connections, understanding behavior, and helping children develop social-emotional skills in a supportive environment.
"You can learn theories in class, but seeing it in action is completely different," she explained. "You start to understand the ?why? behind behaviors, and you learn how important connection really is."
The internship has reinforced her passion for helping others--and clarified her future path.
After graduating from LCCC, Tiffany plans to transfer to Misericordia University to pursue her bachelor?s degree in Social Work, taking advantage of the college?s transfer partnerships that save both time and money. Her long-term goal? To become a licensed clinical therapist.
For Tiffany, returning to college later in life has come with challenges--but also perspective.
"I wear a lot of hats," she said. "I?m a mom, a student, I work, and I?m doing this internship. Time management is everything--but if you stay organized and give yourself grace, you can do it."
Her advice to other adult learners considering a return to school is simple but powerful:
"Don?t be afraid to start. The first semester might be tough, but it gets easier. Stick with it--it?s worth it."
This Community College Month, Tiffany Staskiel?s story is a reminder that it?s never too late to start again?and that with the right support, education can open doors to meaningful careers and lasting impact.
From the classroom to the community, Tiffany isn?t just learning--she?s already making a difference.
天美传媒 hosts data center information session
WNEP: Melissa Steininger
It's a look at the future at 天美传媒 as it embraces what's next in northeastern and central Pennsylvania.*
John Yudichak, 天美传媒 President, says, "This community college was built on Blue Coal land- an old coal company. My father and grandfather were anthracite miners; they helped fuel the Industrial Revolution. So now here we stand, fueling the next revolution, the AI revolution. Building out digital infrastructure." There are about 15 data center campus projects proposed or underway across our area. 天美传媒 in Nanticoke is looking beyond those proposals to create pathways to train students for jobs supporting those data centers.
Yudichak adds, "That's the future of the digital infrastructure that we need to build- so having LCCC partner with AWS, which is building out AI campuses across Pennsylvania, investing billions of dollars. We're going to be their partners in producing the workers. We're going to be part of this economic boom that is happening across Pennsylvania."
The college hosted a hands-on information session for lawmakers, employers, and educators, showing the skilled workers needed to build, power, and maintain data centers, from electricians to engineers. Principal Hal Gabriel of Wilkes-Barre Area Special Programs says, "You need to get yourself prepared for the future. You need to be able to be competitive for the future, and I think that's where we're headed."
The event was hosted by Amazon Web Services, which is investing 10 billion dollars in a major data center campus in Salem Township.
Nicholas Lee-Romagnolo of Amazon Web Services says, "The entire digital economy requires infrastructure- the same way the highway structure did. The same way the telephone system did. You have built out the infrastructure to make the tools and resources that we all use every day, and that's what coming to Pennsylvania."
This is all part of LCCC's career and technology academy and a statewide workforce strategy called 'PA Works'.
The partnership aims to develop career training, microcredentials, and trade pre-apprenticeships across all 15 of Pennsylvania's community colleges
"We're going to have new jobs and new opportunities that we never dreamed of for our children because of technology. This is an investment in our future- this is an investment in northeastern Pennsylvania. It's an investment in our workforce and development strategy. PA works is going deliver workers for the 21st century, and it's exciting to be a part of it," Yudichak explains As LCCC says, the future is coming, and they want their students ready for it.
天美传媒 to Host District 1 SkillsUSA Regional Competition
天美传媒 will once again serve as the host site for the District 1 SkillsUSA Regional Competition on Thursday, January 8,* welcoming hundreds of high school students from across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The event brings together students from career and technical centers to compete in more than 30 skilled trade and technical competitions, including welding, automotive technology, electrical construction, culinary arts, and other in-demand career fields. Often described as "the Olympics of the trades," SkillsUSA showcases the best of the best in technical education and workforce preparation.
Students will demonstrate hands-on skills, problem-solving, and professionalism in a highly competitive environment designed to mirror real-world industry standards. Advisors and educators emphasize that for many students, SkillsUSA is their sport -- a chance to compete, excel, and gain confidence in their chosen career paths.
More than 400 students from District 1 schools are expected to participate. Top finishers will advance to the SkillsUSA Pennsylvania State Competition in April in Hershey.
天美传媒 is proud to support SkillsUSA and its mission to prepare students for success in the skilled trades, strengthening the future workforce of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
District 1 Participating Schools Include:
Carbon Career & Technical Institute
CTC of Lackawanna County
Delaware Valley High School
Hazleton Area Career Center
Honesdale High School
Johnson College
Susquehanna County CTC
Tunkhannock Area High School
Wallenpaupack Area High School
Weatherly High School
West Side CTC
Wilkes-Barre CTC
Dress for Success, LCCC partner to offer ServSafe certifications to inmates at LCCF
Dress for Success Luzerne County entered into a partnership with 天美传媒 to offer ServSafe Managers Certifications to inmates incarcerated at Luzerne County Correctional Facility.*
Upon passing the 90-question test, individuals became qualified to work in the food service industry at a management level.
"It occurred to me that during the pandemic, food service workers became a vital part of the workforce and restaurants were desperate for help," said Linda Loop, founder/CEO of Dress for Success Luzerne County. "While conducting our bi-weekly workshops in LCCF, I saw a way to fill the need of restaurants while helping our fellow citizens gain employment in a field that many have previously worked in or have an interest in pursuing. We were inspired by Myesha, a woman we worked with over the past two years, who traveled from the jail to Edwardsville to the job she worked while on work release and knew that an opportunity like this could change her life."
Loop went on to explain that certification programs are typically offered at state correctional facilities, but rarely at county jails.
Loop said Dress for Success Luzerne County as well as 天美传媒 serves our local population, so she felt offering a program like this at the County Correctional Facility made sense.
Loop said Dress for Success Luzerne County created an application for interested inmates. Questions such as "What do you like about working in the food service industry" and "Are you willing to work nights and weekends?" appeared on the application.
Councilors at Luzerne County Correctional Facility selected the participants based on release date and interest in this the food industry.
To help facilitate the partnership, Cathy O?Donnell, board member of Dress for Success Luzerne County and 天美传媒 said, "As a mutual board member, I am so gratified to have been able to bring together these two amazing organizations and be a small part in their joint effort to provide real opportunity for people in need of a chance for change."
"The collaboration between Dress for Success, LCCC, and the division of corrections to bring ServSafe Managers training to the inmates at LCCF is another positive step in reducing recidivism and promoting reintegration into our communities for the participants." said Jim Wilbur, director of Luzerne County Correctional Facility.
"Luzerne County Community College is a proud partner with Dress for Success in developing empowering new career pathways for individuals who may be struggling in our community," said John Yudichak, president of 天美传媒. "Luzerne County Community College is driving innovative workforce development partnerships, like the Dress for Success ServSafe Program, to serve regional businesses, governments, and nonprofit organizations in meeting the workforce demands of northeastern Pennsylvania."
? On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 10 women and 9 men received textbooks created by the National Restaurant Association during orientation sessions.
? On Tuesday, July 29, review sessions began and over three days were led by Chef Sal Shandra of 天美传媒.
? Tests were administered to 14 individuals on Monday, Aug. 4.
? On Aug. 8, The National Restaurant Association reported that 100% of the individuals tested in that group passed and received their certification.
Upon release from LCCF, program, participants who gain employment in the food service industry will be provided with appropriate clothing needed to work in kitchens and other food service facilities.
Loop said Dress for Success Luzerne County is covering all program expenses from grants received for workforce development.
Loop said there was no fee incurred by the participants, the jail or the county.
天美传媒 Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to nearly 150 cities in 30 countries.
To date, Dress for Success has helped more than 2,500,000 women work towards self-sufficiency.
Since Dress for Success Luzerne County became operational in December of 2010, the program has reached over 3,000 economically challenged women from the area by providing clothing, job interview support and workforce guidance.
Dress for Success Luzerne County continues to create programs to enhance economic and social development, encouraging self-sufficiency through career development and employment retention.
President John Yudichak to Preside Over First Commencement as 天美传媒's Eighth President
Ceremony Set for May 29 at Mohegan Arena, Marks a Year of Innovation and Regional Progress
When 天美传媒 hosts its 56th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 29 at 6 p.m. at Mohegan Arena, the moment will be a milestone not only for the hundreds of graduating students, but also for President John Yudichak - his first commencement as the College?s new leader.*
Appointed as LCCC?s eighth president on July 1, 2024, President Yudichak brought decades of public service, educational advocacy, and regional development experience to the institution he has long supported. A former Pennsylvania State Senator and longtime advocate for northeastern Pennsylvania, President Yudichak has quickly transformed his commitment into action during his first year at the helm of the region?s largest and most accessible institution of higher learning.
A Vision of Opportunity and Regional Growth
Under President Yudichak?s leadership, LCCC has launched a series of innovative partnerships designed to make higher education more affordable, accessible, and aligned with the workforce needs of northeastern Pennsylvania.
"Luzerne County Community College is more than a college--it is a lifeline to opportunity for so many in our communities," said President Yudichak. "Our mission is to ensure every student can go here, graduate here, and work here, right in their own backyard."
That mission has taken concrete form in the College?s new articulation agreements with all 10 universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Spearheaded under the framework of Act 69 of 2024, these agreements guarantee LCCC graduates junior status at PASSHE institutions?dramatically reducing tuition costs and simplifying transfers.
In tandem, LCCC also expanded its Regional Articulation Agreements with local private colleges such as King?s College, Misericordia University, and Wilkes University, opening new and flexible pathways for students to earn bachelor's and graduate degrees without leaving the region.
Tackling Workforce Gaps with Local Partnerships
Recognizing a critical regional labor shortage--especially in skilled trades and technology--President Yudichak has prioritized new partnerships with career and technical high schools. Through collaborations with the Hazleton Area Career Center, West Side CTC, and Wilkes-Barre Area CTC, LCCC now offers over 2,000 high school students a head start on trade certifications and college credits in high-demand fields.
A standout initiative is the launch of micro-credential certification programs tailored to urgent workforce needs, including a pioneering certificate in AI in Manufacturing.
LCCC has also taken strides in supporting students beyond academics. The AllOne Recovery Educational Institute (AREI), with support from Luzerne County Council and the AllOne Foundation, provides educational pathways for students in recovery from substance use disorders. Since its launch, AREI has already supported nearly 250 students.
Historic Education Partnership in Hazleton
Perhaps the most transformative highlight of Yudichak?s first year came on May 1, when he announced a groundbreaking educational partnership between LCCC, Commonwealth University, and the Hazleton Area School District (HASD). This first-of-its-kind collaboration enables local students to earn a bachelor?s degree in education for less than $29,000--an affordable alternative to the skyrocketing costs at many private institutions.
"For the first time in our history," said Yudichak during the announcement, "students can earn their degrees locally and contribute to our community by filling vital educational roles within the Hazleton Area School District."
The initiative is already being hailed as a model solution to Pennsylvania?s growing teacher shortage.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
President Yudichak?s forward momentum at LCCC builds upon a distinguished 24-year career in public service, where he served as both a State Senator and State Representative. His legislative record is defined by bipartisan coalition-building, economic revitalization projects, and landmark education initiatives, including support for LCCC?s Culinary Institute, Public Safety Training Institute, and Health Sciences Center.
His dedication to community improvement is equally evident in his philanthropic work through the Yudichak Family Fund of the Luzerne Foundation, which has funded scholarships, youth programs, and libraries across the region.
Looking Ahead
As President Yudichak prepares to take the stage on May 29 to confer degrees upon the Class of 2025, he does so not only as a college president, but as a native son of northeastern Pennsylvania committed to building stronger communities through education.
"It is the honor of a lifetime to serve 天美传媒," Yudichak said. "Every graduate walking across that stage represents the best of our region?s potential?and the promise of a better future."
Luzerne County and LCCC Launch Innovative Workforce Development Partnership
天美传媒 and Luzerne County have officially signed a historic agreement to launch a first-of-its-kind workforce development partnership aimed at strengthening the regional workforce and providing new educational opportunities for county employees.*
The announcement was made during a signing ceremony held Monday, June 23, in the Rotunda of the Luzerne County Courthouse.
Working Together to Build a Stronger Workforce
Through this groundbreaking initiative, county employees will be able to pursue a post-secondary credential or college degree at a significantly reduced tuition rate. The partnership structure includes:
25% tuition contribution from Luzerne County
25% tuition discount from LCCC
50% remaining tuition cost covered by the employee
"Luzerne County Community College is fully committed to being a workforce development partner with Luzerne County and establishing a stronger workforce development pipeline to better serve county residents," said John Yudichak, President of 天美传媒.
Recruiting, Retaining, and Upskilling County Employees
The partnership directly addresses critical workforce needs, helping the county recruit, retain, and upskill employees across its departments by making higher education more accessible and affordable.
"As workforce shortages impact Luzerne County services, members of Luzerne County Council have championed a partnership with LCCC to encourage recruitment and retention of county employees to meet the critical workforce needs in Luzerne County," said Attorney Romilda Crocamo, Luzerne County Manager.
This innovative collaboration is another step forward in LCCC?s ongoing mission to support economic growth, educational access, and career development throughout Luzerne County.
LCCC September 11th Remembrance Ceremony
WHAT: September 11th Remembrance Ceremony and Brick Dedication
WHEN: Thursday, September 11, 2025 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: 天美传媒 Public Safety Training Institute-- Walk of Honor
1100 Walk of Honor Drive, Nanticoke, PA*
DETAILS:
天美传媒 will host its annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony and Brick Dedication at the Walk of Honor, a reflective memorial space dedicated to first responders who have lost their lives in service.
The ceremony will include:
A flag raising
A Final Alarm Ceremony presented by the Nanticoke Fire Department
A procession of service members, firefighters, and officials, up Walk of Honor Drive
This annual tradition honors the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and pays tribute to all first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.
WHO: Open to the public. All are invited to attend.
MORE INFO: The inspiration behind the Walk of Honor, created by Phylis Carlo, who lost her son, New York City firefighter Michael Carlo, at the World Trade Center on 9/11. Through her enduring dedication, the ceremony ensures that the memory of Michael Carlo and all of America?s first responders will never be forgotten.
LCCC Welcomes Back Miss Pennsylvania, Alumna Victoria Vespico, for Campus Celebration
天美传媒 proudly welcomed back one of its own on Thursday, August 21, as Miss Pennsylvania 2025, Victoria Vespico, returned to campus for a special meet-and-greet with students, faculty, staff, and alumni.*
The celebration, held in the Rotunda of the Campus Center, featured free ice cream and the opportunity for the College community to meet and congratulate Vespico, a 2019 LCCC graduate, on her recent achievement.
Vespico earned the title of Miss Pennsylvania 2025 this summer after impressing judges with her award-winning tap dance performance and her inspiring advocacy for environmental sustainability. She is the founder of Sustainability Starts With You, a grassroots initiative that encourages individuals to take small steps toward building a greener world. Along with the crown, Vespico received a $12,000 scholarship and will represent Pennsylvania this September at the Miss America competition in Orlando, Florida.
Returning to campus, Vespico reflected on her journey and the support she has received from her alma mater. "It?s incredible being back on campus," Vespico said. "So much has changed since I was a student here. The student center didn?t exist when I was at LCCC, and it?s amazing to see this beautiful facility and the way the campus has grown while still maintaining the close-knit, welcoming feel I remember. I?m grateful for the incredible community that has come behind me. To know that I have LCCC and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania supporting me as I represent them on the Miss America stage is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
LCCC President John Yudichak said the College is proud to celebrate Vespico?s success and to welcome her back home. "Victoria represents the very best of 天美传媒," President Yudichak said. "Her accomplishments on the Miss Pennsylvania stage, her commitment to sustainability, and her dedication to excellence are an inspiration to our students and our entire College community. We are honored to welcome her back to campus and cheer her on as she prepares to represent Pennsylvania on the national stage."
天美传媒 congratulates Victoria Vespico and wishes her the best of luck as she competes for the Miss America crown.
天美传媒 Joins Governor Shapiro in Championing Workforce Development at IBEW Local 163 Press Conference
天美传媒 Vice President of Enrollment Management & Student Success, Holly K. Pilcavage, joined Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and workforce leaders Friday August 15th at the IBEW Local 163 Training Center to highlight the Commonwealth?s growing investments in career training, apprenticeships, and pathways to high-paying jobs.*
"Here at the IBEW Local 163 Training Center in Luzerne County and across Pennsylvania, we?re investing in all paths to success-- and building the best workforce in the nation," said Governor Shapiro.
In her remarks, Pilcavage emphasized the vital role LCCC plays in preparing students for in-demand careers through education, hands-on training, and strong partnerships with business and industry.
"As the largest and most accessible college in Northeastern Pennsylvania, serving over 7,000 students across eight locations, LCCC is building real, tangible solutions to meet workforce needs," Pilcavage said. "We are proud to work alongside Governor Shapiro to ensure our students and workers are ready for high-paying, high-demand jobs in our region."
Pilcavage highlighted several initiatives that directly align with Pennsylvania?s workforce priorities:
Career & Technology Academy ? Gives high school students from Career & Technical Centers the opportunity to earn college credits and industry-recognized skills before graduation. Thanks to a PDE Dual Credit Innovation Grant, tuition is covered for the first two years, eliminating a major barrier to access.
Micro-Credential Academy ? Provides targeted training in high-demand fields like AI in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, welding, and heavy equipment operation, developed in direct partnership with local employers.
Construction & Trade Pre-Apprenticeship Academy ? In collaboration with the Pennsylvania Building & Construction Trades, creates a clear on-ramp into union apprenticeship programs and high-wage careers.
"These programs are built with one goal in mind: preparing individuals to step confidently into the jobs driving our region?s growth, from high-tech data centers to advanced manufacturing to the skilled trades," Pilcavage said.
Governor Shapiro?s administration has made significant workforce investments, including increasing funding for vocational, technical, and apprenticeship programs by nearly $65 million since 2022, creating 165 new pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship programs, and training more than 34,000 apprentices across Pennsylvania.
Shapiro has also championed record-setting projects, such as Amazon?s $20 billion data center investment, which will create 10,000 building trades jobs in Pennsylvania, and invested in Local 163?s growth through more than $1.34 million in state funding since 2022.
"At 天美传媒, we are ready to meet the workforce needs of today while building the talent pipeline for tomorrow," Pilcavage said. "We thank Governor Shapiro for championing apprenticeships, partnerships, and opportunities that meet the moment for Pennsylvania."
LCCC and City of Wilkes-Barre Launch Innovative Workforce Development Partnership to Build a Stronger Workforce
天美传媒 and the City of Wilkes-Barre officially launched a first-of-its-kind municipal workforce development partnership Wednesday August 6th during a signing ceremony held at Wilkes-Barre City Hall.*
The new initiative significantly reduces the cost of higher education for city employees by offering a 50% tuition discount through a joint effort: the City of Wilkes-Barre will fund 25% of tuition, while LCCC will apply an additional 25% tuition discount. City employees will be responsible for only half the tuition cost as they pursue degrees or credentials that enhance their careers and public service roles.
Among the first to benefit will be the Wilkes-Barre Fire Department, whose members plan to enroll in continuing education and fire safety training programs through LCCC. Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief Jay Delaney, an LCCC alumnus, spoke at the event, noting that the partnership will help his department grow stronger, more skilled, and better prepared to serve the public.
"I applaud Mayor George Brown for his steadfast commitment to improving city services through this innovative workforce development partnership," said John Yudichak, President of 天美传媒. "This collaboration creates new opportunities for Wilkes-Barre?s public servants to gain a college degree or credential?at half the cost?and reinforces our shared goal of strengthening the region?s workforce through education."
The partnership supports employee recruitment, retention, and upskilling across all city departments?from public safety to administration. The agreement reflects a shared vision of investing in human capital to better serve the community.
"This strategic partnership with 天美传媒 gives Wilkes-Barre employees a powerful tool to gain new knowledge, skills, and credentials," said Mayor George C. Brown. "It?s an investment in the people who keep our city running every day. I thank President Yudichak and his team for making this opportunity possible, and I look forward to the positive results this innovative collaboration will bring to our city."
The LCCC?Wilkes-Barre Workforce Development Partnership marks a model for municipal engagement in higher education and workforce innovation, setting a new standard for how cities and colleges can work together to create stronger communities.
LCCC president excited about his school's Career & Technology Academy
Times LeaderOctober4, 2025 By Sam Zavada
John Yudichak, the president of 天美传媒, said he is excited about the potential of his school?s Career & Technology Academy.*
It?s a partnership between LCCC and Luzerne County?s three technical high schools -- Hazleton Area Career Center, the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center and West Side Career & Technology Center.
Those three high schools represent a base of about 2000 students. That number is not insignificant, as skilled trades are the future of Luzerne County?s workforce, according to Yudichak. And they?re joining that workforce just in time.
"The skilled trades are in great demand in Pennsylvania," Yudichak said. "They project that by 2030, we will have a shortage of over 300,000 skilled trade workers in Pennsylvania."
According to Yudichak, the rise of data centers in Northeast Pennsylvania will help create the pipeline between high school students at the Career & Technology Academy and the workforce.
The program at LCCC launched in the Spring 2025 semester with 27 high school students earning college credits while still enrolled at their high school and technical school. In the Fall 2025 semester, 37 students are earning those credits, and Yudichak predicts that the number of participants will continue to climb.
LCCC received $1 million from the Shapiro administration to help build the program. That funding, combined with two robust scholarships -- including one created by Yudichak himself --will make the program free for students for years.
In starting the Career & Technology Academy program, the LCCC community is hopeful that they can close the cultural divide between traditional college students and the skilled trade workers of tomorrow.
"You had a period of time in the United States and here in Pennsylvania where the mantra was the only pathway to a good life was by becoming a college graduate, and the skilled trades were less represented when it came to career night, when it came to an academic pathway," Yudichak said. "But we want to dispel that myth, and we want to make sure that a door that was closed to those 2000 students at those career and technical high school students for decades ? where they didn?t have a pathway to a college degree or a postsecondary credential ? that door?s been open wide by 天美传媒."
Among the skills that can be learned at the Career & Technology Academy are welding, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC).
Business leaders in the area have expressed "pure excitement" to Yudichak in relation to the new program. The course teachers, meanwhile, are skilled trade workers themselves.
"[Students] are going to come to their campus, get their hands dirty, be taught by some of the best professors that we have on campus that have been doing this a long time, and get that head start," Yudichak said.
The credentials earned by students who participate in the program will increase their earning potential, Yudichak said, and the school is committed to recognizing the talents in each of the Career & Technology Academy?s students.
"A student graduating from Nanticoke High School on Koscziusko Street can now go down Kosciuszko Street and get a pretty decent job coming right out of high school, maybe making $22, $23, $24 an hour," Yudichak said. "Not a bad wage for an 18-year-old."
New Project Aims to Combat Teacher Shortage
天美传媒's nursing program hosted Rob Bresnahan Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, on Thursday for a tour focused on workforce training and strengthening the region?s nursing pipeline.*
Bresnahan, who represents Pennsylvania?s 8th Congressional District, joined Oz at LCCC?s Francis and Mary Gill-Corozza Health Science Center, where they observed students engaged in hands-on clinical training. The visit included classroom instruction, simulation labs, ultrasound demonstrations, CPR practice and immersive virtual reality patient encounters.
"We had an incredible opportunity to meet with some of our next-generation nursing students and see the opportunities 天美传媒 has to offer," Bresnahan said. "We got to experience virtual reality and see the passion and energy about the future of health care in northeastern Pennsylvania."
During the tour, Oz and Bresnahan watched students perform CPR before taking turns completing chest compressions themselves. They also observed pregnancy ultrasound instruction and simulated childbirth training, speaking directly with students and faculty about curriculum requirements and career pathways.
The visit concluded with a virtual reality demonstration that simulates patient encounters, including routine checkups and more complex clinical scenarios. Both officials donned VR headsets to experience the training firsthand as instructors explained how the technology prepares students for real-world patient care.
Oz emphasized the vital role community colleges play in addressing the nation?s nursing shortage.
"I must say our biggest shortage, I think, in America right now, is nursing," Oz said. "We?re looking for ways of getting more people trained in community colleges because we know when nurses train in a community, they stay in the community."
Oz highlighted federal investments in rural and regional health care workforce development, including funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program, which will provide $50 billion to states between 2026 and 2030. Pennsylvania received $193 million this year to support rural health initiatives.
Earlier in the day, Oz and Bresnahan also toured the Regional Hospital of Scranton as part of Oz?s Northeast Pennsylvania visit.
Federal Investment Expands LCCC Nursing Capacity
LCCC President John Yudichak discussed a four-year grant awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services? Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The $507,318 annual award ? totaling more than $2 million through 2029 ? will allow the college to expand specialized long-term and acute care training for nursing students.
"The investment that the federal government is making in 天美传媒 ? over half a million dollars a year for four years ? that?s going to allow us to hire talented faculty," Yudichak said.
Two full-time faculty members have been hired to develop the specialized curriculum, along with two clinical liaisons, ESL support faculty and student success faculty. All positions are fully funded through the federal grant.
The grant also provides up to 100 percent tuition reimbursement for students who complete 80 hours of optional specialized training and commit to working in underserved areas. The new training component launches this spring.
Yudichak noted that the program?s expansion is already increasing enrollment capacity. This fall, LCCC expects to welcome a class of 220 nursing students ? the largest incoming class in recent years.
"This kind of funding helps us close the gap and put nurse professionals on the floor of the hospital," Yudichak said.
College leaders say the continued growth of LCCC?s nursing program is critical to addressing regional workforce shortages and ensuring high-quality care throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Education Institutions Partner To Tackle Teacher Shortage Crisis
FOX 56 News at Ten Thursday May 1
By: Jake Sarwar
HAZLETON, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) 天美传媒, Commonwealth University, and the Hazleton Area School District have announced a collaborative effort to address the ongoing teacher shortage crisis through the "Teach in NEPA" initiative.*
Starting in the fall of 2025, students will have the opportunity to earn a four-year degree in early childhood education at LCCC's Hazleton Center.
"For the first time, you can enroll at 天美传媒?s Hazleton Center, graduate from 天美传媒?s Hazleton Center, and start a rewarding professional career right here in Greater Hazleton," said LCCC President John Yudichak.
The initiative aims to tackle key educational concerns by providing student teaching opportunities, increasing teacher production, and offering hands-on training.
Students will be able to obtain their associate's degree from LCCC and their bachelor's degree from Commonwealth University, all while keeping costs low.
"A four-year degree for less than $30,000 without ever having to leave the City of Hazleton," Yudichak explained.
Dr. Brian Uplinger, Superintendent of the Hazleton Area School District, emphasized the partnership's potential to advance the community.
"We are creating unparalleled opportunities for our students to thrive. Together, we can create a vibrant and thriving community where everyone can reach their full potential," Dr. Uplinger said.
Uplinger also highlighted the program's long-term benefits.
"This initiative will not only address the immediate shortage but also ensure a sustainable pipeline of qualified educators for years to come." Uplinger said.
Commonwealth University's founding president, Bashar Hanna, expressed optimism about the collaboration's potential to expand into other programs.
"What we are piloting here today, thanks to John?s vision, is something we hope is a pilot for many other programs that make sense for this community," said Dr. Hanna.
President Yudichak expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership and the prospect of future collaborations.
Historic Partnership Announced in Hazleton to Address Pennsylvania's Teacher Shortage
In a groundbreaking event held Thursday May, 1st at the LCCC Hazleton Center, President Yudichak announced an innovative educational partnership between 天美传媒, Commonwealth University (CU), and the Hazleton Area School District (HASD) aimed at tackling Pennsylvania's persistent teacher shortage. *
This historic collaboration is designed to create accessible pathways for Hazleton Area students to earn a four-year degree in education while remaining in their community. Through this partnership, students will have the opportunity to pursue a bachelor?s degree at an affordable tuition rate of $28,632, significantly lower than the average cost at private universities, which can exceed $235,000.
"We are thrilled to launch this new higher education model: GO HERE, GRADUATE HERE, WORK HERE," said President Yudichak. "For the first time in our history, students can earn their degrees locally and contribute to our community by filling vital educational roles within the Hazleton Area School District."
The urgent need for qualified educators has become increasingly apparent, with many districts struggling to attract talent. Dr. Brian Uplinger, Superintendent of HASD, emphasized the importance of this partnership for local students and the district: "Having the opportunity for our students to earn a degree right here in Hazleton is unprecedented. This program will allow us to hire new teachers who understand and are committed to our community."
"We are excited to collaborate with our colleagues at 天美传媒 and the Hazleton Area School District to provide students a clear and seamless matriculation path to Commonwealth University as part of an affordable pathway to a degree in education," said Bashar W. Hanna, CU president. "This partnership will help our communities address the teacher shortage in Pennsylvania."
Dr. Russ Bigus, Vice President of Academic Affairs at LCCC, highlighted the solid future ahead for students in this program. "We are committed to providing clear pathways for our students. The investment they make in their education will pay off, setting them up for successful careers in teaching."
The announcement also aligns with Governor Josh Shapiro's statewide initiative to make higher education more affordable and accessible, fostering partnerships that prioritize the needs of local communities.
Today?s event marks a significant step toward not only addressing the teacher shortage but also reinforcing the economy of Greater Hazleton through educational empowerment and workforce development.
For more information about this partnership and the educational opportunities available, please contact Phil Schoener, Director of Public Relations and External Affairs
Historic Educational Partnership Announced in Hazleton: Community Leaders Respond
On Thursday, May 1st, a historic announcement was made in Hazleton regarding an innovative educational partnership between 天美传媒, Commonwealth University, and the Hazleton Area School District. This collaboration, known as the TEACH IN NEPA Project, aims to address the critical need for qualified educators in the region and to create accessible pathways for local students to earn a four-year teaching degree without leaving their hometown.*
Community leaders from various sectors in Hazleton have rallied behind this initiative, emphasizing its potential to transform the educational landscape and overall community development.
Mary Malone, President of the Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This partnership will not only provide a unique opportunity for students to pursue a teaching career right here in Hazleton but will also help to cultivate a new generation of educators who understand the community's unique needs. By training local talent, we can address the bilingual education demand and ensure that our classrooms reflect the diversity of our students."
Malone also highlighted the historical significance of having LCCC in the heart of Hazleton for 25 years. "Every time they've taken initiative, they?ve been at the forefront of addressing our community?s needs, and this project is a continuation of that mission," she noted.
Bob Curry, Co-founder of the Hazleton Integration Project, echoed Malone?s views, adding, "The TEACH IN NEPA Project is incredibly transformative for our community. It's not just about filling teaching positions; it?s about empowering our students, particularly those from bilingual backgrounds, to return to their roots and inspire future generations. This initiative bridges the gap between education and community, fostering an environment where our children can thrive."
Curry emphasized that this program could significantly alleviate the current teacher shortage in the region, providing the Hazleton Area School District with educators who are not only passionate but also familiar with the local community and its challenges.
Jocelyn Sterenchock, Director of Economic Development at CAN DO, spoke about the economic implications of such an educational initiative. "Bringing a four-year teaching degree program to Hazleton means more than just educational opportunities; it?s an economic game changer. By fostering local talent, we?re creating a workforce that can meet our community's educational needs while bolstering economic growth. This collaboration has the potential to revitalize our local economy and make Hazleton an attractive place for families and new businesses."
Sterenchock further stressed the importance of investment in education as a fundamental building block for a thriving community. "When we invest in education, we invest in the future of Hazleton. This project positions us as a forward-thinking community that prioritizes the growth and development of our next generation."
As excitement surges around the TEACH IN NEPA Project, community leaders remain united in their support, recognizing its transformative potential for both education and the broader Hazleton community. The collaboration between LCCC, Commonwealth University, and the Hazleton Area School District marks a significant step toward addressing workforce challenges and fostering educational pathways that are accessible, affordable, and deeply rooted in the local fabric.
The community looks forward to watching this ambitious project unfold?one that promises to change the educational landscape of Hazleton for years to come.
Community Partnerships: LCCC Works to Strengthen Ties with Local Government
天美传媒 is taking significant steps to foster connections with the community through a proposed discount program for county government workers. This initiative aims to make furthering education more accessible while also supporting local employees.*
During a recent council work session, County Manager Romilda Crocamo presented the proposal as a strategic move to help attract and retain talent within the county workforce. The idea centers around a collaborative funding model: both LCCC and Luzerne County would cover 25% of the costs for each course, while employees would pay the remaining 50%, along with any additional materials and fees required for their classes.
According to College Vice President of Finance Erin Herman, this partnership could save employees a significant amount. An average three-credit class would typically cost around $225, meaning that under the proposal, each employee would be responsible for about $112.50 after the contributions from both LCCC and the county.
This discount program is just one of the ways LCCC is working to connect with the community, recognizing the importance of education in workforce development. By making courses more affordable for county employees, the college not only positions itself as a valuable resource for professional growth but also strengthens the overall community by investing in its local workforce.
High school students in Luzerne County can now get a skilled trade diploma for free at LCCC
WNEP-TV
Wednesday June 4, 2025
By: Valeria Quinones
NANTICOKE, Pa.-- Starting this fall, some students in Luzerne County will have the opportunity to graduate with a high school diploma on one hand and a college diploma on the other. *
"We're here today to celebrate the creation of the new 天美传媒 Career & Technology Academy," says John Yudichak, President of LCCC.
The academy is based at LCCC's campus in Nanticoke. The program offers students a 17-credit diploma for careers including welding, electrical technology, HVAC, plumbing, culinary arts, and early childhood education.
The first students in the two-year program will not pay anything thanks to grants from the state and scholarships funded by local business owner Bill Rinaldi.
"To me, the most important thing is for a young man is to get educated and have an opportunity. Opportunities at high-paying jobs are not common like they were," says Rinaldi.
"We recognize we need to build that skilled workforce here in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Bill wanted to give back to the community. He wanted to give back to the college, and most importantly, he wanted to invest in the economy in Northeastern PA," says Yudichak.
Bill Feist owns the welding company J&E Sheet Metal in Wilkes-Barre. He's experienced a shortage of skilled workers in recent years and thinks this program will help fill the gap.
"I mean, without the skilled trades, without skilled employees, stuff like this, you can't have schools. You can't have buildings. You can't have hospitals. It's a high demand right now," says Feist.
While the Career and Technology Academy will initially focus on students from the Wilkes-Barre CTC, West Side CTC, and Hazleton CTC, 天美传媒 plans to expand the program to career centers throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
天美传媒 Receives $378,200 Family Literacy Grant to Support Two-Generational Learning
天美传媒 has been selected to receive a $378,200 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Division of Adult Education, to support its Family Literacy Program for the 2025?2026 program year. This award, pending final approval, is part of a three-year grant cycle that will serve a contracted enrollment of 61 families across Luzerne County.*
The Family Literacy Program at LCCC is a two-generational educational model that empowers both parents and children by offering integrated services that support academic, personal, and family success. The program is free to participants and funded by the PA Department of Education.
"This program is transformative," said John Yudichak, LCCC President, at 天美传媒. "It not only helps parents earn a high school equivalency diploma or improve their English language skills, but also strengthens their ability to support their children?s education--starting as early as birth."
Participants in LCCC?s Family Literacy Program engage in four key components:
Adult Education: High School Equivalency (GED), basic literacy, and English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction tailored for parents.
Parent Education: Classes that help parents support their child?s learning and school success.
Parent and Child Together (PACT) Activities: Shared learning experiences to reinforce family bonds and model educational behaviors.
Early Childhood Education: Quality learning opportunities for children from birth through third grade in partnership with programs like Head Start and local public schools.
"Family Literacy works best when parents and children learn together," said Kim Gavlick, ALTA Program Director. "We are creating a culture of education at home--where children see learning as a lifelong journey, and parents have the tools and confidence to lead the way."
The Family Literacy Program is currently offered at multiple convenient locations throughout Luzerne County. Families interested in enrolling or learning more are encouraged to call 800-377-5222, ext. 7325 to schedule an orientation.
This grant supports 天美传媒?s continued commitment to educational access and community empowerment through evidence-based, impactful programming.
天美传媒 Receives $1,000,000 Dual Credit Innovation Grant from Pennsylvania Department of Education
天美传媒 announced it has been awarded a $1,000,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Education Dual Credit Innovation Grant program. The funding will enhance LCCC?s efforts to expand access to dual credit programs that deliver college credit coursework for underserved students from high school Career & Technical Centers (CTCs).*
Inspired by higher education reforms championed by Governor Josh Shapiro and members of the northeastern Pennsylvania state legislative delegation, the Dual Credit Innovation Grant program aligns perfectly with LCCC's commitment to ensuring that high school students can successfully secure postsecondary education credentials and pursue high-demand, high-wage career pathways. LCCC will forge new partnerships with the Hazleton Area Career Center, the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center, and the West Side Career & Technical Center to provide more than 2,000 high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits toward certifications, diplomas, or degrees in various career and technology programs.
"We are very grateful Governor Shapiro and our state legislators recognize the value of 天美传媒 and so robustly support its mission to deliver the highest quality, most accessible pathways to earning a college degree or post-secondary credential," said John Yudichak, President of LCCC.
The $1 million Duell Credit Innovation Grant will encourage students to enroll in college courses that correspond with their high school CTC programs, such as Welding, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, HVAC, Culinary Arts, and Early Childhood Education. By focusing on high-demand careers, the program aims to create a strong pipeline of skilled workers in northeastern Pennsylvania.
For more information about the LCCC and the Dual Credit Enrollment Grant program, please contact Philip Schoener, Director of Public Relations & External Affairs, at 570-740- 0204 or [email protected]
天美传媒 Launches Groundbreaking Career & Technology Academy
天美传媒 proudly announced today the official launch of the LCCC Career & Technology Academy, an unprecedented educational partnership between the college and the region's three Career and Technical Centers (CTCs): Hazleton Area Career Center, Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center, and West Side Career & Technical Center.*
Made possible through a $1 million Dual Credit Innovation Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and $150,000 in private scholarship support, the Academy allows high school students to earn college credits--free of charge--while completing their CTC programs. The initiative aims to transform workforce development in northeastern Pennsylvania by creating accessible, affordable, and high-impact educational pathways for students pursuing skilled trades.
"Today, we dispel the myth that students gifted in skilled trades don't have a path to college," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "With the Career & Technology Academy, we are empowering over 2,000 CTC students across Luzerne County to earn post-secondary credentials while still in high school. It's a bold, necessary innovation that will transform our regional economy and individual lives."
The Academy's first class includes 27 students who attended LCCC this spring at no cost, thanks to the generous $100,000 William Rinaldi Career & Technology Academy Scholarship and the $50,000 Joseph Yudichak Career Pathway Scholarship provided through the Luzerne Foundation.
Local entrepreneur William Rinaldi, a key donor and visionary partner, was honored for his contributions. "Bill recognized the value of LCCC as a workforce development epicenter," said President Yudichak. "His generosity ensures that our students have every opportunity to succeed."
A Regional Partnership with Statewide Implications
Dr. Thomas Duffy, Chief Administrator of West Side CTC, praised the collaborative model:
"This is a first-of-its-kind partnership. By centralizing resources and leveraging the strengths of all three CTCs with LCCC, we?re creating unprecedented opportunities for our students."
Dr. Anthony Guariglia, Administrative Director at Wilkes-Barre Area CTC, highlighted the real-world confidence this model provides:
"Students get to transition to college-level courses with their peers and build on skills they've already mastered. It gives them the confidence to succeed in college and beyond."
Dr. Brian Uplinger, Hazleton Area Superintendent, pointed out how the program relieves capacity issues at overcrowded CTCs:
"We have limited seats. This program opens up opportunities for more students to participate in CTC training by moving some students to LCCC."
LCCC Vice President of Enrollment Management, Dr. Graceann Platukus, underscored the rising demand:
"Parents and students are looking for affordable, fast-tracked routes into trades. This program answers that call."
LCCC's Academic Affairs Vice President, Dr. Russ Bigus, emphasized the broader impact:
"This program gives high schoolers the chance to gain experience, confidence, and even meet future employers while still in high school."
Jocelyn Sterenchock, CAN DO's Director of Economic Development, added:
"To be 18 years old and graduate with a diploma in one hand and a job offer in the other is exactly what we should be striving for."
State Support for a New Model of Workforce Education
The $1 million state grant will fund tuition, upgrade LCCC's Advanced Technology Center, and expand lab space for high-demand programs like welding, HVAC, and electrical technology.
"Pennsylvania needs more skilled workers with college credentials," said President Yudichak. "Thanks to Governor Josh Shapiro, the Department of Education, and our legislators, we're ready to deliver."
The Governor's Office was represented at the event by Drew Popish, Northeast Director, in attendance to show support.
A New Era of Community-Focused Education
President Yudichak closed by thanking the LCCC Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff for their dedication, especially key academic leaders including Dr. Bigus, Dr. Platukus, and faculty members Brandon Babish, Ed Kuehner, Mark Kobusky, and Jasson Sherrill.
"At LCCC, community is in our name, in our mission, and in our heart. The Career & Technology Academy is a model of what higher education and workforce development should be--accessible, innovative, and focused on student success."
LCCC President Yudichak Applauds Amazon's $20B Data Center Investment in Pennsylvania
天美传媒 President John Yudichak responded positively to Amazon's announcement about the new data center in northeastern Pennsylvania, emphasizing the potential benefits for the local community and economy.*
"I applaud the work of Governor Josh Shapiro and the region?s state legislators who have championed effortsto attract billions of dollars in economic investment from global technology companies, like Amazon/AWS,that will create thousands of new jobs in northeastern Pennsylvania," said John Yudichak, President of 天美传媒.
As the former State Senator and Chairman of the Pennsylvania State Senate Community, Economic, andRecreational Development Committee, President Yudichak worked on the passage of Act 25 of 2021 thatestablished data center tax exemption to serve as a economic incentive to attract data center development to Pennsylvania. At the time of the passage of the data center tax exemption, Steve DelBianco, President andCEO of NetChoice, a trade association of America?s leading online businesses, said, "This [tax incentive] puts Pennsylvania on top of the list of states whose tax policies embrace the investment and jobs that come withlarge-scale data centers.""Luzerne County Community College stands at the ready to be the region's workforce development pipelineby producing the necessary technology and skilled trade workers to meet the demands of a 21st-century Pennsylvania economy through its new Career & Technology Academy, its Applied Technology Programs, and the new LCCC Microcredential Academy," said John Yudichak, President of 天美传媒.
With the support of a $1 million Dual Credit Innovation grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the generous $100,000 scholarship gift from entrepreneur William Rinaldi, LCCC recentlylaunched its Career & Technology Academy-- a first-of-its kind opportunity for more than 2,000 high schoolsstudents in the Hazleton Career Center, the Wilkes-Barre Career and Technical Center, and the West SideCareer and Technical Center to earn a college degree or credential while still in high school.
"Governor Shapiro?s higher education reforms have inspired 天美传媒 to developinnovative educational partnerships with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, thePennsylvania Commission on Community Colleges, and with local career and technical high schools toestablish the most accessible, most affordable pathways for Pennsylvanias to earn a college degree or post-secondary credential and build a career in a high wage, high demand profession," said John Yudichak,President of 天美传媒.
Alumni Success Story: Sarah Swinick '18 Finds Success Through LCCC Dental Programs
For 天美传媒 alumna Sarah Swinick '18, a passion for helping others and a love for dentistry became the foundation for a thriving career journey -- one that continues to evolve thanks to the education and hands-on experience she received at the College.*
"I always had a passion for dentistry," said Swinick. "I was blessed to have a great mentor growing up, Dr. Padula in Dunmore, and I always knew I wanted to help people in a dental setting."
Sarah began her educational journey at LCCC in the Dental Assisting program before continuing into the Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) program and ultimately achieving her goal of graduating from the College?s Dental Hygiene program.
Throughout her time at the College, Sarah said the support from faculty and the real-world clinical experiences helped prepare her for long-term success.
"All the professors were very helpful. They really cared about each individual student, and that was a really great experience I had here," she explained. "Having the professors and clinic -- the hands-on experience down at the dental clinic ? was outstanding."
Sarah also praised the strong reputation of LCCC?s dental programs and the success students consistently achieve on board examinations.
"The reputation behind the 天美传媒 dental programs speaks for itself," she said.
After graduating, Sarah wanted to remain connected to the dental field while also exploring additional career opportunities. Understanding the physical demands that can come with dental hygiene, she sought to create multiple pathways for her future.
"When I graduated with my bachelor?s degree in 2020, I got into dental sales," said Swinick. "Recently, last year, I also finished up my MBA."
Today, Sarah credits her education and hands-on experience at LCCC for giving her a competitive edge in the dental sales industry.
"Having the knowledge and experience working in a dental office allowed me to adapt into the dental sales world," she said. "I?m not just selling to dental professionals -- I actually know the lingo. I understand what they experience with their patients every day."
Sarah says that practical understanding has helped build trust and credibility with the professionals she now works alongside.
"That knowledge really set me up for success," she added.
Sarah's journey reflects the impact of LCCC?s dental programs -- providing students with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in a variety of careers both inside and beyond the dental field.