The Board of Ambassadors Announce 2026 Tribute to Courage Honoree for Spirit of Hope Celebration The Board of Ambassadors will honor Honorable Thomas Munley as the 2026 Tribute to Courage Honoree at their upcoming Spirit of Hope Celebration set for Friday, November 6, 2026, at Mohegan Pennsylvania. Honorable Thomas Munley is a retired Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Lackawanna County. Prior to his election, Judge Munley spent more than 30 years as a practicing attorney in northeastern Pennsylvania. He is a proud veteran of the United States Army and served in Vietnam. Judge Munley is proudest of his three sons, John, Thomas and Logan. He resides in northeastern Pennsylvania with his wife, Jodean. Judge Munley is a cancer survivor.
WVIA Earns Four NETA Public Media Awards, Including Excellence in Education WVIA has earned four honors in the 58th Annual NETA Public Media Awards, including the award for Excellence in Education. Presented by the National Educational Telecommunications Association (NETA), the awards recognize outstanding work in education, community engagement, marketing and communications, and content. WVIA was recognized in the following categories: ● Excellence in Education ● Education – Learning Events: Youth Voices ● Marketing & Communications – Integrated Media Campaign: Making NEPA Home ● Content – Topical Feature: Making NEPA Home The Excellence in Education award recognizes the broad reach and impact of WVIA Education, which supports students, teachers and families throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania. In 2025, the team distributed more than 1,900 educational resources and engaged nearly 6,000 teachers, students and caregivers through 92 in-person sessions. Partnerships with area school districts extended WVIA Education’s reach to more than 106,000 students across the region. Among the programs recognized is Youth Voices, which was honored for its community engagement work. The initiative gives students the opportunity to develop media and storytelling skills while creating content that reflects their experiences and perspectives. In 2025, 100% of 246 student participants reported positive outcomes. WVIA’s original documentary Making NEPA Home earned two awards for its content and integrated marketing campaign. Produced as part of WVIA’s We Stand Against Hate initiative, the documentary tells the stories of refugees and immigrants who have built new lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania, exploring themes of resilience, belonging and community. “These awards are a tremendous reflection of the creativity, dedication and community focus that define WVIA,” said Carla McCabe, WVIA President & CEO. “From empowering young people to tell their own stories to helping our region better understand the experiences of our neighbors, this work demonstrates the many ways public media can educate, connect and inspire. We are especially proud of the Excellence in Education honor and grateful to the educators, students, families and community partners who make this work possible.” Vicki Austin, WVIA’s Chief Development and Education Officer, said the recognition underscores the importance of WVIA’s core educational mission. “Our education team works every day to connect students, educators and families with opportunities and resources that can make a meaningful difference,” Vicki Austin said. “These awards celebrate that work and the many partners who help us reach communities throughout the region.” The NETA Public Media Awards recognize exceptional work by public media stations in education, community engagement, marketing and communications, and content. Stations compete within divisions based on station size, with awards judged by experts from within the public media system and professionals working outside public media. The awards were announced September 14, 2026.
Wayne Bank Expands Leadership Responsibilities for Greater Scranton Market Wayne Bank has announced an expansion of Executive Vice President and Market Executive Joseph (“Joe”) J. Mahon’s leadership responsibilities to include the Greater Scranton market, in addition to the New York territories he currently oversees. Mahon will continue to lead commercial lending and deposit growth initiatives while expanding his work with customers, businesses and community organizations throughout the Greater Scranton region. In his expanded role, he will support Wayne Bank’s strategic growth initiatives and help strengthen the bank’s presence across Northeastern Pennsylvania and New York. “Joe has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and a commitment to building strong relationships throughout the communities we serve,” said Donnelly. “His proven success in commercial banking, business development, and team leadership has helped drive growth across our New York markets. Expanding his responsibilities into the Greater Scranton region positions us well for continued success and strengthens our ability to serve customers throughout our footprint.” Mahon earned a Master of Business Administration from Binghamton University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Villanova University. He also serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Club of Binghamton and the Boys & Girls Clubs Foundation of Binghamton.
Attend The Frolic – Harvest at the Hilton to support United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA (UNC) will host The Frolic-Harvest at the Hilton on Thursday, Oct. 1, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center. The 21+ event will bring the community together for an evening of food, drinks, entertainment and support for UNC’s programs and services. Guests can enjoy more than 20 tastings from a variety of local bars, businesses and bakeries, along with live music from Michelle Conaboy McGrath. WNEP’s Jeremy Lewan will serve as emcee, and attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in raffle prizes throughout the evening. Tickets are $50 per person. Proceeds will support United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA and its programs and services that benefit individuals and families throughout the community. Tickets can be purchased by scanning the event QR code, visiting www.uncnepa.org/frolic-2026/ or calling 272-228-1371.
Johnson College Receives Grant from Fastenal to Support Girls on Fire Events Johnson College received a $5,000 grant from the Fastenal BK5K Youth Fund Committee to support the College’s Girls on Fire events. Girls on Fire is a unique one-day STEM event designed for 6-9th grade students to explore career opportunities in non-traditional STEM fields. The event is an integral part of the College’s Women in Industry Initiative and is held in conjunction with International Women’s Day. The Girls on Fire event includes tours of Johnson College’s campuses, presentations about industry experiences from women working in non-traditional STEM fields, and hands-on activities related to many of the programs offered at the College. Fastenal’s support helps Johnson College continue its mission to inspire young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM and the trades. By connecting students with real-world experiences and industry professionals, the College aims to break down barriers and empower the next generation of women in technical fields. The BK5K, a 5-kilometer road race and walk, is held to honor Bob Kierlin, founder of Fastenal Company and lifelong supporter of youth programs. All proceeds support local youth organizations/programs that demonstrate financial need, where races are held. Learn more at https://www.bk5k.com/.
Geisinger to host free dinners to honor military veterans To thank local military veterans for their service, Geisinger will host free drive-through appreciation dinners at 12 locations across the health system’s service area on Thursday, November 5, from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. Servings are limited, and those interested are encouraged to sign up now. Local veterans can make a reservation for themselves and one guest by visiting go.geisinger.org/vetsdinner2026 or calling 570-293-7200. The registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 30. Locations are: Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital: 549 Fair St. (use main entrance) Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital: 4200 Hospital Road, Coal Township Geisinger Multi-Specialty Clinic, Danville: 35 Justin Drive Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital: 1020 Thompson St. Geisinger Lewistown Hospital: 400 Highland Ave. (3rd floor hospital entrance) Geisinger Mifflintown: 27 CJEMS Lane Geisinger Mount Pocono: 126 Market Way Geisinger Medical Center Muncy: 255 Route 220 Geisinger Healthplex CenterPoint, Pittston: 1201 Oak St. Nay Aug Park, Scranton: 500 Arthur Ave. Geisinger Healthplex State College:132 Abigail Lane, Port Matilda (serving 4 to 5:30 p.m.) Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre: 50 Roosevelt Terrace (behind the hospital)
Marywood University and PA State Police Academy Celebrate Milestone of First Graduate Marywood University celebrated a significant milestone as Pennsylvania State Trooper David Kuzmick became the first student to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice through the Marywood–Pennsylvania State Police Academy Partnership. The ceremony took place at the Pacer Statue on Marywood’s campus. Trooper Kuzmick received his degree from Marywood University President Lisa A. Lori, J.D. Patrick Seffrin, Ph.D., Marywood Professor and Director of its Center for Law, Justice and Policy, and Trooper Clint Long, Recruitment Program Coordinator, were also on hand to commemorate this achievement. The partnership enables eligible Criminal Justice majors to complete their bachelor’s degree while training at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. Students earn 30 undergraduate credits upon successful Academy completion, which are applied directly to Criminal Justice elective requirements. The Pennsylvania State Police maintain full authority over Academy admissions, training, and graduation, and participation in the partnership does not guarantee Academy admission, appointment, or employment. Dr. Seffrin explained how the partnership allows students to combine their academic education with professional training. “Students who are in Marywood’s bachelor’s program for Criminal Justice and have completed these 90 credits can then apply to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. If they successfully complete the Academy, they receive an additional 30 credits to complete their bachelor’s degree,” Dr. Seffrin said. “Essentially, during their senior year, they will be at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. If they successfully complete the program, they receive their bachelor’s degree and become a state trooper.” President Lori highlighted the importance of the milestone, noting that “this partnership creates new possibilities for those committed to public service by connecting rigorous Academy preparation with a Marywood education.” She added that Trooper Kuzmick’s accomplishment “reflects academic commitment, professional preparation, and service to the Commonwealth.” To be eligible, students must: Be enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program at Marywood University Have completed at least 90 undergraduate credits before applying to the Academy Be at least 20 years of age at the time of Academy application Meet all Pennsylvania State Police Academy admission requirements Successfully complete the Pennsylvania State Police Academy Trooper Kuzmick is the first student to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice under this model, marking a meaningful step forward in the University’s efforts to strengthen connections among higher education, law enforcement, and public service.
TekRidge Enterprise Center Celebrates Completion of Multimillion-Dollar Expansion The Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), the business development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, celebrated the completion of a multimillion-dollar expansion project at the TekRidge Enterprise Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday, Sept. 10. The project added new anchor-tenant space and collaborative workspace to the facility at 50 Alberigi Drive in Jessup. The celebration also recognized the expansion of Ryan Leckey Media and welcomed Martina Bacarella Architect as a new anchor tenant. “This expansion represents another important investment in the businesses and entrepreneurs driving northeastern Pennsylvania’s economy,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “By providing modern, flexible space and connecting tenants with the resources of the Chamber, we are creating an environment where companies can establish roots, grow and create new opportunities in our region.” Funding support from the U.S. Small Business Administration and Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program helped make the expansion possible. “The completion of this project strengthens the TekRidge Enterprise Center’s role as a center for innovation, collaboration and business growth,” said Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “We are grateful to the partners whose support helped bring this vision to life, and we look forward to seeing our tenants continue to thrive in the expanded facility.” The project reflects the ongoing work of SLIBCO and IGNITE, the Chamber’s entrepreneurial division, to attract, sustain and grow businesses and jobs throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Through business development resources, entrepreneurial programming and strategically located facilities, the organizations help companies at different stages of growth connect with the space, expertise and relationships they need to succeed.
Performance Music at University of Scranton Presents “Baroque or Bust!” as Fall Season Opener Performance Music at The University of Scranton will welcome violinist Aisslinn Nosky and cellist Caroline Nicolas on Friday, September 18, when they present a recital entitled “Baroque or Bust!” The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, downtown Scranton. Admission is free. The concert is open to the public. Seating is on a first-come, first-seated basis. Hailed as “superb” by The New York Times and “a fearsomely powerful musician” by The Toronto Star, Nosky has served as soloist and director with ensembles around the world, including the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Holland Baroque, the Victoria Symphony, the Hamilton Philharmonic and the New World Symphony. In 2011, Nosky was appointed concertmaster of the Grammy-winning Handel and Haydn Society, founded in 1815 and one of the world’s longest continuously performing musical organizations. Nosky has recorded the complete Haydn and Mozart violin concerti with H&H on the CORO label. A passionate educator, Nosky has been on faculty at Amherst Early Music Festival, the International Baroque Institute of Longy, Tafelmusik Baroque Summer Institute, Mount Holyoke College and The Banff Centre. She has given masterclasses, workshops and performances at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, the New England Conservatory of Music, Codarts Rotterdam and The Juilliard School. Canadian cellist and viol player Nicolas enjoys an international career performing repertoire spanning the Middle Ages to the 21st century. Acclaimed as “a bright new gamba star” by The Strad Magazine, she performs with leading ensembles across Europe and North America, including The English Concert, Philharmonia Baroque, Kammerorchester Basel, Ars Lyrica Houston, Pacific MusicWorks and New World Symphony. She recently completed her tenure as Music Director of New Baroque Orchestra and now serves as Artistic Director of Ars Poetica. A dedicated educator, she has taught at Yale University, the Peabody Conservatory, the University of Victoria and the University of Washington, and she has led workshops for organizations including the Viola da Gamba Society of America and the Port Townsend Early Music Workshop. Her students have gone on to study at leading conservatories across North America and Europe, and she has been featured in Early Music America for her work on historical bowing techniques. For further information on the concert (or related education events for student musicians and music educators), call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Marywood Expands Student Care through New Collaboration with UPMC Workpartners® Marywood University formally unveiled a new partnership with UPMC Workpartners® during a campus ceremony held on Wednesday, September 9, immediately following the University’s Opening Picnic. The event, hosted in the Loughran Hall lobby, brought together representatives from Marywood and UPMC Workpartners® to celebrate a shared commitment to strengthening student health and well‑being. The partnership establishes a new model for delivering on‑site health and wellness services to currently enrolled students who attend classes in person. UPMC Workpartners® will assume management of Marywood’s Student Health Clinic and Center for Well‑Being, expanding access to clinical care, behavioral health support, and coordinated services. Marywood University President Lisa Lori highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that the health and wellness needs of college students continue to evolve and require increasingly comprehensive support. She emphasized that the collaboration with UPMC Workpartners® reflects a thoughtful investment in the future of student care at Marywood and aligns with the University’s longstanding commitment to educating and supporting the whole person. “Our students’ health and well‑being are central to their success, and this collaboration with UPMC Workpartners® helps us meet those needs in a more integrated and sustainable way,” said President Lori. “Together, we are creating a model of care that supports students academically, personally and emotionally, and ensures they have access to the resources they need to thrive.” Through MyHealth Marywood – Student Health Clinic, students will have access to a centralized location for multiple aspects of care, including treatment for acute illnesses and minor injuries, rapid on‑site testing, immunizations, biometric screenings, wound evaluation and coordination of referrals and specialized services. Telemedicine with a UPMC advanced practice provider will also be available five days a week. The Center for Well‑Being will provide behavioral health support through academic and performance coaching, mental health and emotional support, life transition guidance and 24/7 telephone crisis assistance. Students will also benefit from referrals to psychiatric services and off‑campus resources when needed. Academic programs such as Physician Assistant, Nursing and Education will see additional benefits through streamlined health clearances for students preparing to enter clinical sites or field experiences.
