Career Technology Center (CTC) of Lackawanna County Alumni Survey

Dear CTCLC Alumni,

As the Administrative Director of the Career Technology Center of
Lackawanna County (CTCLC), I am reaching out to ask for your valuable
insight. We are conducting a brief survey to better understand how
your experience at our school influenced your path after high school.

Your feedback will help us strengthen our programs, ensure they align
with workforce and postsecondary demands, and continue to support
students in achieving their goals.

Share Your Story Survey


Thank you for taking a few moments to share your story — your voice can help shape the future for the next generation of students.

The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Partner with AllOne to Host 5k Run With the Bears & Cub Walk

The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children In Partnership with AllOne Charities is excited to host Run with the Bears & Cub Walk. Proceeds from this 5k race will directly support the academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs offered to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students at The Scranton School. 

What: 5k Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk

When: Saturday, May 31, 2025 @ 9:00 AM

Where: The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Children, 537 Venard Rd., Clarks Summit, PA 18411

Packet Pick-Up and Day of Registration: 7:30 to 8:30 AM at the Pavilion at the school.

The first 125 participants to register will be receive a race t-shirt. Overall winners will receive a cash prize, and top finishers in each age group will take home awards.

To take part in the 5k run or 1 Mile Fun Run, sign up here

Sponsorship Link: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=NzNeu4

Lackawanna Historical Society, “For the Least of Them” Play Steps back in Time in County Courthouse

Join the Lackawanna Historical Society to step back in time to 1902 in the Lackawanna County Courthouse for a special performance of the play “For the Least of Them” in Courtroom Three on Sunday, June 1 at 2pm.

Written by KK Gordon, the play offers a glimpse into the private thoughts and prayers of Fr. John Curran during the Anthracite Strike of 1902. Fr. Curran played an important role in the strike, supporting the striking miners, counseling UMA president John Mitchell and acting as a trusted confidant of President Theodore Roosevelt, whose decision to set up a neutral commission to intervene in a labor dispute marked a major change in how the US government dealt with labor.  Dramatically set in the courtroom where Curran testified before the Anthracite Strike Commission, this one-man show emphasizes Curran’s role in the strike and his dedication to “the least of them.”

KK Gordon, a proud Scrantonian, poet, author and actor became intrigued by Fr. Curran’s story when he saw Gary Anderson’s critically acclaimed one-man play ‘Clarence Darrow’s Search for Justice’ at the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton in 2010.  Fr. Curran will be portrayed by Plains native Scott Rave under the direction of Art Walsh.

This production is made possible by funding support from the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority and the Anthracite Cultural Board. 

Seating is limited and tickets are $10. Advance tickets can be purchased online at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/lackawanna-historical-society/for-the-least-of-them.

For more information about the program or to make reservations, contact the Lackawanna Historical Society at 570-344-3841 or email lackawannahistory@gmail.com.

Photo L-R: Kelly Ann Walsh, Walter Mitchell, Scott Rave, and Bobby Musto

Outreach – Center for Community Resources Receives Grant

Outreach – Center for Community Resources recently received a $10,000 grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation for the Ways to Work car loan program.

Established in 2024, the Ways to Work program helps low-income individuals obtain a reliable, safe vehicle to maintain and advance their employment opportunities. Eligible participants must meet a series of requirements verified by Outreach staff. Participants can receive up to a $15,000 loan over five years. Outreach employs a Ways to Work program manager who maintains constant contact with the participant throughout the loan, providing support and connections to resources when necessary.

Since starting the program, Outreach has provided vehicles to eight individuals. The program has helped individuals and families attain economic self-sufficiency and family stability, which is the Outreach mission.

Outreach is thankful to the Scranton Area Community Foundation for its support.

Photo (left to right): Kenneth Okrepkie, Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Member; Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO, Scranton Area Community Foundation; Jennifer Shoemaker, Outreach Workforce Development Manager, and Heather MacLennan, Ways to Work Case Manager, Outreach – Center for Community Resources.

Mohegan Pennsylvania, Super Trans Am Performance Inside the Keystone Ballroom

WILKES-BARRE, PA (May 22, 2025) – Tonight’s performance by Super Trans Am: The Super 70’s Concert Experience originally scheduled outside as part of the popular Party of the Patio concert series at Mohegan PA has been moved inside to the Keystone Grand Ballroom due to the combination of rain and colder temperatures in the forecast. Doors will open at 6:00pm and the concert will kick-off at 7:30pm. 

“We’re so thrilled to welcome Super Trans Am tonight for what is a much-anticipated performance at Mohegan Pennsylvania,” -said Anthony Carlucci, President & GM of Mohegan PA. “This is a unique situation where due to an unseasonable cold snap combined with rain, we will move this concert from our Outdoor Concert Venue to the Keystone Grand Ballroom. Capacity will be limited and entry will be first-come, first-served for this free, 21+ concert!” 

The Keystone Grand Ballroom will have a bar for concert goers and nearby dining options include Slice’d, Molly O’Sheas, The Hive Taphouse, Tony Luke’s and more.

Combining unparalleled musicianship with artistic and inspired A/V production, Super Trans Am: The Super 70’s Concert Experience revisits classic singalongs from one of the most definable decades in American history. Performing masterworks from icons such as The Eagles, Hall & Oates, Queen, The Doobie Brothers, Paul McCartney & Wings, Peter Frampton, Foreigner, Kiss, Boston and Journey as well as “Yacht Rock” favorites such as “Still the One” by Orleans and Pilot’s “Magic”, audiences will fall in love with this epic decade of memorable music all over again. See the experience live inside the Keystone Ballroom at Mohegan PA for a 7:30pm show on Thursday, May 22nd.

For more information on Party on the Patio at Mohegan Pennsylvania, visit: moheganpa.com/potp

Lackawanna College Now Accepting Applications for Conservation and Natural Resource Certificate: Fall 2025

Lackawanna College is accepting applications for their Conservation and Natural Resource (CNR) certificate program. The program is set to begin August 25, 2025, and ends December 12, 2025.

During this 16-week accelerated program, students will complete five undergraduate level field biology courses. The curriculum focuses on the conservation and interpretation of our natural environment. The program includes instruction in subjects such as park management, environmental interpretation, wildlife management, freshwater ecosystems, dendrology and ornithology. Students will experience both classroom and hands-on field training throughout the program.

The CNR certificate is appropriate for anyone seeking a career as a park, forest or resource ranger or related field. Courses are transferable into two or four-year degree programs. Upon graduation, students will receive a CNR certificate and transcripts of their undergraduate coursework.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Fall 2025 semester and financial aid is available.

For more information about the program, please contact Sharon Yanik-Craig at (570) 842-1506 or email yaniks@lackawanna.edu.

Attached Photos. Conservation and Natural Resource students participating in field studies.

Marywood University Celebrates 107th Annual Commencement Ceremony

Former NFL QB/Current NFL Analyst and Successful Entrepreneur Ron Jaworski Addresses Graduates

More than 950 students, including August, December, May, and international graduates, were part of Marywood University’s 107th annual commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 1 p.m., Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza, in Wilkes-Barre Twp.

Marywood University’s two colleges, including the College of Health Sciences and the Reap College of Creative and Professional Studies, conferred degrees on undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students who hail from 23 states and 6 countries. Business, physician assistant studies, and social work were the top graduate level degree granting programs. Business, architecture, and nursing were the top undergraduate level degree granting programs.

Former NFL QB/current NFL analyst and successful entrepreneur Ron Jaworski served as keynote speaker. Mr. Jaworski was honored with a citation of recognition during the ceremony.

A listing of area graduates, including students in a ten-county region (Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming Counties, as well as Berks, Columbia, and Schuylkill Counties), follows. A full list of graduates, as well as related commencement information, can be found at: marywood.edu/commencement. Regional graduates include:

From the College of Health Sciences, as declared by Dean Shelby Yeager, M.Ed., LAT, ATC, CSCS:

DOCTORAL DEGREES
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology: Marissa Galardi, Archbald, and Allison Markowski, Kunkletown.

POST-MASTER’S DEGREES
School Psychology Educational Specialist (Ed.S.): Lauren Davis, Reading; Patrick Dougherty, Scranton; Cathryn Wolff, Elmhurst Twp, and ToniAnne Zito, Stroudsburg.

MASTER’S DEGREES
Master of Arts: Angel Brofsky, Peckville; Ariana Campbell, Scranton; Lindsay Carey, Taylor; Ashley Carter, Scranton; Evan Cobb, Factoryville; Kahlan Delamarter, Meshoppen; Maxine Fabrizio, Exeter; Luxaida Hernandez-Hierro, Hazleton; Caleb Hinds, Montrose; Jessica Hoban, Scranton; Kegan Laman, Dickson City; Haelle Litvak, Duryea; Vanessa McCarthy, Scranton; Colette McDonnell, Scranton; Abbey McGee, Barnesville; Meagan Molina, Scranton; Eric Nole, Clarks Summit; Rachel Pisarcik, West Wyoming; Julia Polt, Hawley; Elizabeth Pfohl, Scranton; Kristen Reitano, Saylorsburg; Julia Rudick, New Milford; Sierra Santarsiero, Moosic; Corinna Scoblick, Kingston; Samantha Sestito, Milford; Ashley Velasquez, Wyoming, and Chelsea Welch, Sugarloaf.

Master of Health Services Administraton: Matthew Beck, Waymart.

Master of Science: Kara Anders, Kingston; Michael Antoniacci, Moosic; Jessica Brand, Scranton;  Maria Castaldi, Moosic; Kevin Connor, Scranton; Seth Croll, Milford; Matthew Diaz, East Stroudsburg; Patricia Dominick, Brodheadsvlle; Aubri Fisher, Archbald; Chelsi Flynn, Scranton; Casey Genett, Dunmore; Jacob Graziano, Old Forge; Madison Guelho, Stroudsburg; Alexandra Guse, Madison Twp; Mara Hamm, S Abingtn Twp; Conner Hauck, Scranton; Shalynn Honeywell, Harveys Lake; Wenwei Huang, Scranton; Kathleen Kennedy, Dunmore; Carrie Kraynak, Mountain Top; Taylor Loughlin, Shenandoah; Lily Mackarey, Archbald; Catherine Maholick, Gouldsboro; Matthew Manna, Scranton; Jordyn McDonough, Spring Brook Township; Nicole Melesky, Olyphant; Samantha Mushak, Scranton; Rebecca Navin, Kingston; Allison Nealon, Clarks Green; Sarah Niemi, Scranton; Deep Patel, Scranton; Siena Rainey, Clarks Summit; Jenna Reilly, Archbald; Molly Repecki, Olyphant; Jocelyn Ryan, Mountain Top; Meredith Santiago, Scranton; Sam Schorno, Lake Ariel; Taylor Seprosky, Archbald; Sarah Sherpinskas, Scranton; Samantha Shurtleff, Tunkhannock; Marylillian Stepanski, Hunlock Creek; Victoria Tanana, Throop; Evelyn Thomas, Scranton; Lillian Thompson, Moscow; Mimi Tilberry, Scranton; Kathryn Walsh, Springbrook Township; Isabella Watson, Honesdale; Leigha Welsh, Honesdale, and Rebecca Zayle, Scranton.

Master of Social Work: Alyssa Bowers, Simpson; Roxana Castillo, E Stroudsburg; Kevin Conroy, Canadensis; Amanda Hess, Effort; Tara Innocent, Tamiment; Nathan Litsch, Tamaqua; Jessica Lohmann, West Wyoming; Samantha Miller, Stroudsburg; Brian Peeters, Nazareth; Christa Richards, Dupont; Angela Schiavo, Taylor; Chelsea Townes, Kingston, and Stephanie Tyson, Carbondale.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES
Bachelor of Science: Ali Abdallah, Greeley; Joanna Aguirre, Wilkes Barre; Katelyn Ainey, Jessup; Reese Allen, New Milford; Alexandra Antonecchia, Milford; Cassidy Asinski, Waymart; Ava Aulisio, Old Forge; Taylor Bartle, Nanticoke; Madison Bialy, Dickson City; Rachel Black, Mountain Top; Seth Blakiewicz, S Abingtn Twp; Katelyn Boyd, Scranton; Naomi Bradbury, Coal Township; Bridgette Brown, Moosic; Joseph Bruno, Scranton; Noah Budnovitch, Roaring Brook Twp; Rebecca Castimore, Lords Valley; Izabella Chmil, Scott Twp; Jonah Cogliette, Dunmore; Ryan Coleman, Archbald; Laci Connor, Archbald; Meadow Curyk, Scranton; Mia Demarco, Pittston; Talia Donati, Wyoming; Todd Dotter, Thornhurst; Miriam Esther Sanchez Nava, Scranton; Tanner Fenstermacher, Luzerne; Luanne Forlano, Jessup; Derrek Foytack, Madison Twp; Breanna Frazier, Scott Twp; Dhruvi Fuletra, Plains; Gianna Giumento, Throop; Ryan Glatzel, New Milford; Morgan Gromelski, Duryea; Amanda Gross, Moscow; James Guariglia, Pittston; Mason Guelho, Stroudsburg; Natasya Handijaya, Scranton; Kortney Harry, Noxen; Lauren Hegedus, Scranton; Aliyah Heintzelman, Nescopeck; Abbey Jackson, Olyphant; Justice Johnson, Laceyville; Sarah Kagan, Hanover Twp; Will Kalinich, Scranton; Daelyn Karboski, Olyphant; Daniel Kimes, Moosic; Carissa Kopenis, Hanover Twp; Morgan Koutch, Ashland; Ian Kovatch, Archbald; Kayla Kristopaitis, New Boston; Brandon Kujawski, Jefferson Twp; Lauren Larouche, Bloomsburg; Anthony Leggin, Scranton; Mark Lokuta, Mountain Top; Kathleen Magda, Wilkes Barre; Kayla Malone, Douglassville; Sara McCormack, Scranton; Willow McDonald, S Abingtn Twp; Mason Mendygral, Kingston; Christian Michak, Kingston; Alayna Miller, Shavertown; Emily Mondak, Peckville; Lylah Mosley, Scranton; Madison Mower, Roaring Brook Twp; Sierra Mulgrew, Scranton; Era Nasufi, Carbondale; Abbie O’Brien, Scranton; Rebecca Ottensman, Nanticoke; Alexis Overholtz, Dunmore; Michelle Pan, Stroudsburg; Mackenzie Panetta, Milford; Jordan Pattavina-Arroyo, Dunmore; Lynda Perez, Long Pond; Maria Quinones, Scranton; Jack Rafferty, Scranton; Brandon Reed, Taylor; Emily Rinaldi, Duryea; Jalieza Rivera-Cordova, Scranton; Kaci Ryan, Bloomsburg; Bennett Sisto, Hawley; Riley Skelton, Honesdale; Gianna Snell, Jermyn; Megan St. Ledger, Jessup; Merison Stecik, Taylor; Emily Umlah, Hanover Twp; Stephanie Ventura-Ramirez, Wilkes Barre; Anthony Viscomi, Scranton; Khya Webb, Scranton; Bailey White, S Abingtn Twp; Samantha Wilson, Dickson City; Madeline Wittig, Frackville; Jericho Wurtz, Hawley; Lauren Youngken, E Stroudsburg; Katelyn Yurkavage, Old Forge; Leah Zambetti, Yatesville, and Michael Zuzzio, Archbald.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Megan Bidwell, Honesdale; Kyia Brouse, Scranton; Branielle Butwin, Harding; Karoline Defreitas, Wilkes Barre; Madison Fox, Clarks Summit; Zoey Hall, Lakeville; Amanda Hook, Effort; McKenna Huyser, Scranton; Marissa Keiper, Duryea; Samantha Kurian, Bloomsburg; Aleynel Martinez, Scranton; Gianna Marturano, S Abingtn Twp; Hailey Matechak, Carbondale; Abigail McCarty, Meshoppen; Alivia McDonald, Montoursville; Michelle Norton, Dunmore; Celeste Orchard, Lake Ariel; Allison Pavlowski, Dickson City; Dominic Pichany, Archbald; Yva-Marie Ramos-Febus, Scranton; Kasondra Robinson, Tobyhanna; America Rojas, Scranton; Tatiana Roldan, Milford; Dana Scandura, Roaring Brook Township; Prem Sharma, Dunmore; Allison Sidiropoulos, Moscow; and Affya Ufray, Long Pond.

Bachelor of Social Work: Destiny Evans, Meshoppen; Makayla Gregory, Waymart; Kaylyn Lewis, Hallstead; Lizbeth Moctezuma, Scranton; Sarah Pavlovicz, Scranton; Nicole Piccoletti, Pittston Twp; Marzinete Pilch, Archbald, and Alyssa Tkacz, South Abington Township.

From the Reap College of Creative and Professional Studies, as declared by Dean James Eckler, M.ARCH, MSAS, include:

DOCTORAL DEGREES:
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies: Zachary Brunner, Jefferson Twp; Emily Coleman, Dunmore; Francis Dombrowski III, Kingston; Kimberly Mecca, West Chester; Larissa Schwass, Scranton, and Kristoffer Weary, Throop.

MASTER’S DEGREES:
Executive Master of Nonprofit Leadership: Donald McGowan, Scranton; Jessica Spangenberg, Greenfield Township, and Holly Yorkonis, Avoca.

Executive Master of Public Administration: Sarah Thomas, Scranton.

Master of Arts (MA): Dylan Campbell, Scranton; Sister M. Francine Fasolka, IHM, Scranton; Rachel Kim, Scranton; Anne Rodella, Wilkes Barre; Brady Savani, Clarks Green, and Wesley Talarico, Harveys Lake.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT): Gabrielle Bartolini, Kingsley; Stefan Biggs, Hughestown; Angelina Carter, Old Forge; Calah Dougherty, Scranton; Sarah Evancho, Freeland; Raymond Havey, Clarks Summit; Johanny Martinez, Dunmore; Jasmine Roncevich, Taylor; Katherine Sorensen, Roaring Bk Tp, and Sheila Vannort, Jermyn.

Master of Business Administration (MBA): Hashem Yousry Mofid Aboelnazar, Scranton; Alex Amorine, Lake Ariel; Michael Aronica, Scranton; Danielle Banfield, Pocono Lake; Sreyneat Chan, Scranton; Fares Elnahhas, Scranton; Yousif Eltohfa, Scranton; Amrita Mukesh Goklani, Scranton; Bassel Hamed, Scranton; Farah Ibrahim, Scranton; Zhiye Jin, Dunmore; Shana Keeler, Old Forge; Elsa Kovatch, Archbald; Matthew Lastauskas, Waverly Twp; Malavkumar Majmundar, Scranton; Abdelhalim Mehrem, Scranton; Colin Meissler, Jenkintown; Margaret Moyle, Dunmore; Priya Patel, Scranton; Corey Perkins, Clarks Summit; Tyler Prudente, Scott Twp; Zion Resto, Scranton; Haneet Saini, Scranton; James Urso, Olyphant; Jason Van Wert, Jefferson Twp; Robert VanBrunt, Covington Twp, and Abdalrhman Yousuf, Scranton.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Lisa Peet, Honesdale, and Zachary Yahn, South Abington Township.

Master of Public Administration (MPA): Matthew Debragga, Hunlock Creek; Megan Galko, Roaring Brook Twp, and Jordan Houston, Dickson City.

Master of Science (MS): Anika Althouse, Kingsley; Courtney Barhite, Clifford Twp; Amanda Bauer, Forest City; Dhruvi Umeshbhai Borikar, East Stroudsburg; Colin Dempsey, Factoryville; Brittany Haynos, Dickson City; Summer Klikus, Mayfield; Sarah Martin, Clarks Summit; Caitlin Mattioli, Avoca; Christina Menn, Dallas; Trishant Mishra, Scrantn; Hardik Jagdishbhai Padhiyar, Scranton; Nupur Patel, Scranton; Harsh Patel, Scranton; Dhruvbhai Patel, Scranton; Saujankumar Patel, Scranton; Vini Patel, Dunmore; Danielle Ross, S Abingtn Twp; Ashleigh Smith, Honesdale; Gopi Virendrakumar Soni, Scranton; Scott Summers, Dunmore; Kathleen Upright, Montrose; Lauren Walsh, Jessup; and Adam Zaykowski, Old Forge.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES:
Bachelor of Architecture: Andrew Babinski, Scranton; Jacob Dolinish, Scranton; Alison Fortuner, Carbondale; Michael Kobierecki, Dickson City; Tyler Kraft, Bradford; Matthew Kubasti, Hunlock Creek; Cydney Lahr, Herndon; Connor Laity, Lake Ariel; James Marsh, Duryea; Nolla Morawiec, E Stroudsburg; Alvaro Moreno, Reading; Alexandra Murphy, Orwigsburg; Joshua Neary, E Stroudsburg; Karen Pan, Stroudsburg; Logan Pfaff, Scranton; Joseph Sanfilippo, Wyoming; Autumn Savitski, Shavertown; Maxwell Slusser, Berwick, and Victoria Weber, S Sterling.

Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture: Molly Schaefer, Scranton.

Bachelor of Interior Architecture: Lenae Burkhard, Orwigsburg; Danielle Kintzer, Mohnton; Karyn Klocko, Honesdale; Jenna Loomis, Peckville, and Abigail Sankus, Wilkes Barre.

Bachelor of Arts: Madeline Adams, Brackney; Elizabeth Adams, Brackney; Olivia Arcuri, S Abington Twp; Bria Beggin, Jessup; Lucca Cerminaro, Fell Township; Liam Clune, Lake Ariel; Kyle Driscoll, Roaring Bk Tp; Nhung Duong, Scranton; Dilenny Feliz, Peckville; Dominique Gomez, Scranton; Zachary Houston, Exeter; Allison Huegel, Scranton; Colby Hughes, Scranton; Corey Iyoob, Jessup; Lindsey Jason, Olyphant; Olivia Kaschak, Archbald; Olivia Kaschak, Archbald; Aiden Kelly, Fell Township; Brianna Kohut, Jessup; Sara Labar, Scranton; Aubrey Mangan, Scranton; Marissa Manza, E Stroudsburg; Jacob McLane, Scranton; Nathan McLane, Scranton; Martin Monahan, Dunmore; Susanna Morel Almonte, Scranton; Thomas O’Keefe, Milford; Francesco Pazzaglia, Archbald; Angel Popko, Dickson City; Rylie Ravinskas, Archbald; Emily Rowe, Forty Fort; Kevin Slywka, Moscow; Grace Spisso, Taylor; Jonelle Symonies, Carbondale; Kevin Talley, Lake Ariel; Julia Walsh, Scranton; Colby White, Jermyn; Madison Winn, Waymart; Zachary Witte, Lakeville; Taylor Zackarias, Tunkhannock; Rachel Zarubski, Dunmore; and Noah Zeigler, Lake Ariel.

Bachelor of Business Administration: Jihad Abdallah, Greeley; Jacob Allabaugh, Bear Crk Twp; Adam Anderson, Berwick; Mia Angelicola, Waverly Twp; Jake Barrett, Peckville; Brandon Carlson, Lakeville; Daniel Carra, Roaring Brook Twp; Chase Combs, Jessup; McKenzie Connor, Childs; London Durkin, Peckville; Brandon Fleschut, Dallas; Frank Golden, Dunmore; Daniel Gomez, Scranton; Nolan Harrington, Scranton; Cole Johnson, Williamsport; Alexander Jordan, Drums; Brett Kugler, Wilkes Barre; Thomas Lee, Scranton; Kathleen Lynott, Scranton; Sarah Martin, Archbald; Michael McCann, Roaring Brook; Giavana Mercatili, Archbald; Kevin Meredith, Luzerne; Marina Miesko, Sprng Brk Twp; Riley Mulherin, S Abingtn Twp; Samantha Munson, Old Forge; David Nichols, Scott Twp; Jake Pajalich, Avoca; Casey Penzone, Jermyn; Ava Perrins, Throop; Matthew Pfohl, Scranton; Joshua Ramos, Mahanoy City; John Russo, Milford; Haylee Sileo, Dunmore; Andrew Straka, Peckville; Milana Straub, Shickshinny; Trevor Thomas, S Abingtn Twp; Levi Vick, Wapwallopen; Nick Vilogi-Slayton, Jessup; Colin Virkitis, Richmondale, and Christian Winkler, Jermyn.

Bachelor of Fine Arts: Brandon Bartley, Mountain Top; Mary Boyle, Clarks Summit; Hannah Coates, Scranton; Daniele Cragle, Old Forge; Molly Driscoll, Roaring Bk Tp; Emily Duris, Monroe Twp; Julie Eggleston, S Abingtn Twp; Nelly Martinez, Scranton; Jillian Mooney, Dunmore; Khayman Sember, Jefferson Twp; Nicola Veniamin, Waverly Township, and Molly Yatchyshyn, Bernville.

Bachelor of Music: Rhonda Fenkner, Moscow; Emma Holbrook, Clarks Summit; Gabriel Jenceleski, Nanticoke; Kirsten Melton, Scranton; Madison Ostir, Tunkhannock; Madelynn Ross, Wyoming; Elizabeth Vito, Dupont; Brendan Weber, Shillington, and Sean Wolfe, Nanticoke.

Bachelor of Science: Mariah Addis, Peckville; Daniel Becker, Honesdale; Abigail Bonczek, Clarks Summit; Caitlyn Burdick, Waymart; Brennan Burnside, Scranton; Ashley Capone, Scranton; Maria Cicerini, Jefferson Twp; Olivia Ciullo, Dunmore; Jolie Fraggetta, Milford; Zachary Grosvenor, Kingsley; Jonathan Jenkins, Susquehanna; Megan Kielar, Carbondale; Taylor Kizer, Scranton; Melanie Lamberti, Roaring Brook Twp; Grace Lehman, White Haven; Emma McNally, Olyphant; Jennifer Mercereau, Greentown; Jolene Morais, Clarks Summit; Ariana Pillier, Tobyhanna; Elyse Rehder, South Abington Township; Elizabeth Rembecki, S Abingtn Twp; Jada Siino, Newfoundland; Cassandra Slusser, Bloomsburg; Gabrielle Snee, Olyphant; Alexandra Taffera, Moscow; Jillian Vito, Dupont, and Lauren Yencho, Dickson City.

PHOTO 1: Former NFL quarterback/NFL analyst and entrepreneur/philanthropist Ron Jaworski holds up a cell phone to remind graduates to rely on each other and not their mobile devices. Jaworski served as the keynote speaker at Marywood’s commencement ceremony, encouraging graduates to be leaders who care, build relationships, and who are present with one another in the moment. Prior to his address, he received a citation of recognition from Marywood University.

PHOTO 2: Ron Jaworski happily receives a citation of recognition from Marywood University President Lisa A. Lori.

Photos taken by Mike Straub

Shapiro Administration Reminds Motorcyclists of Free Safety Training Through PA Motorcycle Safety Program 

High school training program prepares young riders and promotes lifelong safety habits

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month

As part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to saving lives and keeping Pennsylvania’s roads safe, the Pennsylvania Departments of Transportation, Education, and Insurance, the Pennsylvania State Police and safety advocates joined forces today at Northeastern High School in Manchester to highlight efforts to improve motorcycle safety and promote rider training for all ages. 

Free motorcycle safety training has been available through PennDOT’s Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) for 40 years. This year’s celebration also recognizes the successful implementation of a PAMSP training program at Northeastern High School.

“The lessons learned through PAMSP courses provide riders with important training to mitigate crashes and reinforce the message for all motorists and riders to share the road safely,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Drivers and riders alike can should remember to stay aware while driving or riding, obeying speed limits and being responsible while operating any vehicle.”

In a bold move to enhance student safety on the roadways, Northeastern High School, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and PAMSP, now offers the Basic Rider Course to students in spring and fall classes. They can earn credits toward graduation while learning how to operate a motorcycle safely and responsibly. To date, 21 students have successfully completed the Basic Rider Course at Northeastern, with more students interested in next year’s courses.

“We are proud of our budding motorcycle program for the students at Northeastern High School and hope to continue the effort to better prepare them for a safer future operating a motorcycle,” said Dr. Jason M. Bottiglieri, Northeastern School District Superintendent. “We are confident that teaching our students good riding habits early on will help save lives.”

“We applaud the efforts of our individual schools and our school districts in providing meaningful and life-changing educational opportunities to our young citizens,” said PA Department of Education Deputy Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education Amy Lena. “Anytime we can promote safety and teach a valuable life skill to our students, it’s a win-win.”

There were 3,292 crashes involving motorcycles on Pennsylvania roadways in 2024, resulting in 219 fatalities. Crashes fell from the 2023 number of 3,424, while fatalities also fell from 238 in 2023.

“Enjoy Pennsylvania’s roadways on your motorcycle, and share the roadways responsibly and safely,” said Major Robert Krol, Director of the Bureau of Patrol for the Pennsylvania State Police. “Never ride while impaired or distracted.  Ride defensively and don’t hesitate to seek basic or advanced training to keep your skills sharp.”

Through PAMSP, Pennsylvania residents with a motorcycle permit or license can earn a motorcycle license or refresh their skills through a variety of training courses , regardless of experience. The courses include: the Basic Rider Course (BRC); the Intermediate Rider Course (IRC); the Advanced Rider Course (ARC); and the 3-Wheeled Motorcycle Basic Rider Course (3WBRC). Successful completion of a basic or intermediate course waives the requirement to take a skills test at a PennDOT Driver License Center and automatically earns the permit holder their motorcycle license. Motorcycle permit holders who complete a 3-wheel basic course will earn a motorcycle license with restriction prohibiting the operation a of 2-wheel motorcycle. 

Classes can be scheduled at multiple training sites throughout Pennsylvania. Class schedules are coordinated by each third-party training provider for their individual locations. Additional information can be found at www.penndot.pa.gov/PAMSP. PennDOT anticipates additional training sites will become available during the riding season, and customers are encouraged to check PennDOT’s website for updated class offerings. Schools or school districts interested in starting a motorcycle training program should contact PAMSP from more information.

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) reminds riders that they must have insurance to drive a motorcycle in the commonwealth. Pennsylvania’s motorcycle insurance market is competitive, and many insurers offer discounts for motorcyclists who complete safety courses, have memberships in certain associations, or have safe driving records. Insurers also offer discounts for “bundling,” also known as buying multiple policies. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to discuss available discount options with their insurer.

“The Commonwealth is a wonderful place in which to ride. Motorcyclists don’t just have a passion for their bikes – it’s a way of life,” said Shannen Logue, PID Deputy Commissioner for Product Regulation. “We want motorcyclists to take the available safety courses and follow safety guidelines, so that they can continue to enjoy the beautiful roadways in Pennsylvania while staying safe. And, riding safely may also help reduce your insurance cost.” 

Pennsylvanians with insurance questions, or who wish to file a complaint, can contact PID’s Consumer Services Bureau online or by calling 1-877-881-6388.  

Some safety tips motorists can keep in mind when sharing the road with motorcycles include:

  • Watch for Motorcycles: motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see.  Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections.
  • Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.  
  • Respect a motorcycle as a full-size vehicle with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway. Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width as the motorcyclist needs the room to maneuver safely in all types of road conditions.  
  • Never drive impaired.

Motorcyclists can do their part to help avoid crashes by following some simple safety tips:

  • Be seen by wearing reflective clothing and put reflective tape on your protective clothing and motorcycle. Also wear face or eye protection and a DOT-approved helmet.
  • Use common sense by riding sober, obeying all speed limits, and allowing enough time to react to potentially dangerous situations.
  • Know your motorcycle and conduct a pre-ride check.
  • Practice safe riding techniques and know how to handle your motorcycle in adverse road and weather conditions.

If you’re flying domestically, you will need a REAL ID-compliant product or other federally-accepted form of identification. Visit www.dmv.pa.gov/REALID for information on how you can get a REAL-ID compliant driver’s license or identification card today.  

Bloomsburg Area High School, Lackawanna College Sign Pre-College Agreement for Students

Bloomsburg Area High School has approved a pre-college agreement with Lackawanna College, enabling Bloomsburg students to earn college credits while still in high school.

 This agreement, signed in April 2025, is planned to be offered to Bloomsburg Area High School students starting summer 2025 and continuing through the 2025-2026 academic year.

“We love to offer our students opportunities to take classes at the college level, and Lackawanna College is very flexible with our teachers teaching the courses,” said Amy Melchiorre, Director of Curriculum and Instruction & Grant Writing, Bloomsburg Area School District.

Along with the general education courses from the college, a goal of this agreement is to offer Lackawanna College’s Cybersecurity program, allowing Bloomsburg students to take cybersecurity classes online.

“Cybersecurity is a growing force and many of our students have expressed interest. We want to give them the opportunity to explore this field while they are still in high school,” said Andrea Landis, Ed.D., Bloomsburg Area High School Principal.

The Lackawanna College Cybersecurity program is an online two-year degree covering various computer science topics within the fields of information technology, operational technology, and cybersecurity, allowing students to learn how to prevent major cybercrime threats.

“I am excited to be working with the staff, students and families of Bloomsburg Area High School. This agreement will provide opportunities for the students at Bloomsburg to get a head start on their college career and at the same time allow them to do some career exploration. In the long run, this will help the students save time and money towards their college education,” said Philip Campbell, Director of College Partnerships at Lackawanna College.

Our program provides flexible learning options tailored to meet students’ needs:

  • In-Person: Attend daytime or evening classes at any Lackawanna College location, offering a traditional classroom experience.
  • Online: Utilize the convenience of our Learning Management System (Canvas) to complete courses online, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
  • Concurrent Enrollment: Take college-level courses directly at your high school. We collaborate closely with schools to align our curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) and other qualifying courses, with their offerings.

Through these options, Lackawanna College focuses on academic enrichment and college readiness, empowering students to take confident steps toward their educational goals. For more information or to discuss partnership opportunities, please contact our Director of College Partnerships, Philip Campbell, at campbellp@lackawanna.edu.