The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce AnnouncesNew IGNITE Program Specialist & Grant Writer The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Sam Zavada as its new IGNITE Program specialist & grant writer. In this role, Zavada supports the daily operations of the Chamber’s IGNITE Program by providing entrepreneurs with business support, providing event coordination, and resource development by securing local, state, federal, and private funding. “We are excited to welcome Sam Zavada to our team,” said Mary McDermott, IGNITE Program manager at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “His background in journalism, content development, and community engagement—combined with strong research and writing skills—brings tremendous value to the IGNITE Program and our grant development efforts. We look forward to the energy, creativity, and dedication he will bring as we continue to support entrepreneurs and drive regional economic growth.” Zavada shared his enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, stating, “It’s an honor to be joining The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, an organization that has a long history of helping businesses and entrepreneurs thrive in our area. As someone who cares deeply about the economic and cultural well-being of northeastern Pennsylvania, I am committed to The Chamber’s mission to create a more vibrant business community.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Zavada worked as a reporter for the Times Leader, writing daily stories, interviewing community members, providing photography, and supporting multimedia initiatives. He previously served as a content marketing specialist with LSEO, an advertising assistant with the Times Leader, and a copy editor and news clerk with the Standard-Speaker. His early experience includes a media relations internship with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he assisted with press materials, game recaps, and communications outreach. Zavada received a bachelor’s degree from King’s College.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceWelcomes Miranda Kane as Finance Assistant The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Miranda Kane has joined its Finance Department as Finance Assistant, supporting the financial management of The Chamber and its affiliated divisions. In this role, Kane will assist with accounts payable and receivable, maintain accurate financial records, reconcile bank and investment accounts, process payments, and support month-end and year-end reporting. “Miranda brings a strong blend of technical skill, accounting knowledge, and practical experience to our finance team,” said James Coleman, vice president of internal operations at The Chamber. “Her background in tax preparation, financial reporting, and data management—combined with her strong attention to detail—will enhance our financial operations and support the long-term success of our affiliated organizations.” Kane shared her excitement about joining The Chamber, stating, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that plays such a vital role in the region’s economic growth. I look forward to supporting the finance team and continuing to expand my skills in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.” Before joining The Chamber, Kane worked as a staff accountant at Herbein + Company, Inc., preparing tax returns, analyzing financial data, and supporting compilation and review processes. Her earlier experience includes an accounts receivable internship with Axiom Product Administration and management roles at two agricultural businesses, where she handled bookkeeping, sales transactions, and operational duties. Kane received a bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania and an associate’s degree from Lehigh Carbon Community College.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Kyle Walsh as Staff Accountant The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Kyle Walsh as its new staff accountant, supporting the financial operations of The Chamber and its divisions. In this role, Walsh will maintain accounting records, prepare journal entries and reconciliations, review accounts payable and receivable, and assist with financial reporting, annual audits, and budget development. He will work closely with the vice president of internal administration to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong internal controls across all financial procedures. “We are excited to welcome Kyle to our finance team,” said James Coleman, vice president of internal administration at The Chamber. “His strong academic background, practical accounting experience, and commitment to accuracy will strengthen our financial operations and support our continued organizational growth. Kyle’s professionalism, analytical ability, and dedication to learning make him an excellent addition to the Chamber.” Walsh shared his appreciation for joining The Chamber, stating, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with an organization that has such a meaningful impact on our community. I look forward to applying my accounting experience, expanding my skill set, and contributing to the Chamber’s mission.” Walsh brings hands-on experience in tax preparation, auditing, and client communication through previous roles at Liberty Tax and McGrail Merkel Quinn & Associates. His background includes preparing individual tax returns, performing account reconciliations, updating financial statements, and supporting accountants and partners during tax season. Walsh holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from The University of Scranton.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Juliette Meyers as Program and Events Coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Juliette Meyers as the new program and events coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna, the Chamber’s community leadership and professional development division. In this role, Meyers will assist in the coordination of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature programs—Tomorrow’s Leaders Today and Leadership Collegiate—as well as alumni engagement initiatives, fundraising efforts, and community events. She will also collaborate with regional partners and program participants to support Leadership Lackawanna’s mission of developing informed, committed, and engaged leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We are delighted to welcome Juliette to our team,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Her unique background in art therapy, education, and program management brings a creative and compassionate approach to this position. Juliette’s experience working with diverse groups—and her passion for today’s youth—will allow her to thrive as our new Program and Events Coordinator.” Meyers expressed her enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, saying, “I’m honored to become part of an organization so deeply committed to leadership development and community impact. I look forward to helping cultivate experiences that inspire collaboration, creativity, and service across our region.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Meyers worked as manager of Art Therapy Integration Services at The Wright Center, where she implemented innovative art therapy programs across clinical settings. Her background also includes roles as art coordinator at Winfield Children’s House in Maine and transition coordinator at The Opportunity Alliance, where she supported young adults in a transitional housing setting develop life skills. Meyers earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Marywood University.
The Chamber Announces the 2026 Scranton Business Awards The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announces that applications are now open for its annual Scranton Business Awards, which include the SAGE Awards (the Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence), the ATHENA Leadership Award, and the Milestone Awards. New for 2026, the SAGE Awards will be presented at The Chamber’s 157th Annual Dinner. The awards recognize members of the local business community who demonstrate strong and consistent efforts through talent, creativity, leadership, and innovation. All applicants must be current Chamber members in good standing. The SAGE Award categories include Business of the Year, Community Involvement Excellence, and Small Business of the Year. All SAGE Award finalists will automatically be entered into the People’s Choice Award category. In addition, The Chamber will present the ATHENA Leadership Award to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, demonstrated meaningful community service, and actively supported women in attaining professional goals and leadership skills. The Milestone Awards will be presented to businesses that are celebrating anniversaries in five-year increments. They will be honored with Milestone Awards in recognition of their longevity, leadership, and continued impact within the community. All Awards will be presented at The Chamber’s 157th Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, to be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Scranton Cultural Center. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, January 23, 2026, at midnight. For more information and to access applications, visit scrantonchamber.com.
The Chamber and CAN DO Host Greater Philadelphia Business Development Event The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce led a delegation of community and business leaders on a business development industry tour to The Scranton Plan and the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), the business development affiliates of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with CAN DO, Inc, of Greater Hazleton, recently hosted a business development broker mixer in the Greater Philadelphia region to strengthen relationships with commercial and industrial real estate professionals and advance business development efforts in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The event brought together brokers and economic development leaders to highlight current and emerging development opportunities across the region, including available building and land sites, workforce assets, infrastructure, and competitive business environment. The mixer provided an informal setting for meaningful dialogue focused on business attraction, expansion, and long-term regional growth. “Engaging brokers in key markets like Greater Philadelphia is a critical component of our development and marketing strategy,” said Amy Luyster, Vice President of Business and Workforce Development, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Their market insight and professional networks help ensure Lackawanna County and Northeastern Pennsylvania remains visible and competitive as companies consider new locations.” “The Greater Hazleton area is an integral part of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s industrial market,” said Jocelyn Sterenchock, Director of Economic Development, CAN DO, Inc. “By working collaboratively with partners like The Scranton Plan and SLIBCO, we are able to present a regionally aligned picture of available sites, infrastructure, workforce strengths, and long-term value to companies considering expansion or relocation through engagement with strategic audiences such as Greater Philadelphia.” The mixer opened the door for The Chamber and CAN DO to advance follow-up site tours, generate new prospect referrals, and deepen ongoing partnerships with brokers and regional stakeholders. To learn more about business development opportunities, available sites, and economic development support services in Lackawanna County and the Greater Hazleton area, visit www.scrantonplan.com or www.hazletoncando.com.
The Chamber Leads Delegation of Key Business Leaders to Explore Data Centers in Virginia The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce led a delegation of community and business leaders on a business development industry tour to northern Virginia to explore communities that have integrated data center development into their local economies. The visit gave participants firsthand insights into how data centers impact job creation, infrastructure, community investment, and responsible land use and sustainability. The tour included meetings with local officials, economic development professionals, and industry representatives who have experienced the opportunities and challenges of data center expansion. “This visit is part of our ongoing effort to understand this emerging industry and the potential impact on our region,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “By studying benchmark communities that have effectively managed data center development, we hope to gather lessons and best practices to inform strategic planning, workforce readiness initiatives, and investment policies, ensuring that community leaders in Lackawanna County are well prepared for the challenges of this emerging industry.”
Kira Loomis Successfully Completes IEDC-Accredited Basic Economic Development Course Kira Loomis, business development specialist at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, has completed the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC), sponsored by the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) and accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The BEDC course is designed to prepare professionals with essential knowledge and skills in economic development. Throughout the course, Loomis expanded her understanding of key economic development theories, gained practical tools for navigating today’s dynamic economic landscape, and fostered meaningful connections with fellow professionals in the field. Sharing her thoughts on the achievement, Loomis expressed, “This course was an incredible opportunity to deepen my understanding of economic development and connect with professionals who are passionate about strengthening communities. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to make a meaningful impact.” Congratulations to Loomis on this milestone in her professional development.
Leadership Lackawanna Celebrates Graduation of 2025 Executive Program Class Leadership Lackawanna, the community leadership and professional development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, proudly announces the graduation of its Executive Program Class of 2025. The program, designed for established professionals seeking to expand their community engagement and leadership acumen, concluded after six weeks of learning, networking, and civic exploration. “Through the Executive Program, participants gain valuable insight into our region’s most pressing challenges while developing the leadership skills to make a lasting difference,” said Danielle Weinschenk, chair of the Leadership Lackawanna Board of Directors. She continues, “These graduates are now part of a network of leaders who inspire collaboration, innovation, and progress across northeastern Pennsylvania. We’re incredibly proud of their dedication and look forward to seeing the positive impact they’ll continue to have in their workplaces and in our community.” Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna, also praised the graduates’ dedication. “I wish to extend my sincerest congratulations to each participant of this year’s Executive Program,” Morristell said. “Their commitment over the past six weeks reflects true dedication to professional growth and a deep passion for becoming a more engaged and informed member of our community. I look forward to the impact these 15 individuals will continue to make in the greater Scranton area.” Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Class of 2025: Abby Allen, Stewart Leadership Dr. Angela Bassani, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Craig Brindza, Knowles Insurance Harold Cameron, HaroldSays, LLC Ashley Ceccacci, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Broderick Ross Dial, Department of the Army – Civilian Human Resources Agency – Tobyhanna Army Depot Morgan Fetsock, City of Scranton Tracy Gallagher, Tri-Star Academy William Harrington, City of Scranton Carl Jones, Noble Biomaterials Inc. Mark Kline, MTF Biologics – Pennsylvania Gregory Posly, General Dynamics Land Systems John W. Rosengrant, NEPA Youth Shelter Rebecca S. Slangan, Geisinger College of Health Sciences Kimberly Marie Tenbus, Clarks Summit State Hospital The Executive Program, one of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature offerings, is tailored to executive-level professionals who wish to strengthen their leadership skills, enhance strategic thinking, and foster meaningful community connections. Through sessions focusing on regional issues, leadership development, and networking with industry leaders, participants emerge better prepared to influence positive change throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about Leadership Lackawanna and its programs, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
Luyster Serves on Occupational Advisory Committee for Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County The OAC Committee is the Occupational Advisory Committee for the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County (CTCLC). Its purpose is to provide expert advice and feedback to the school to ensure its career and technical education programs are up-to-date and relevant to the needs of local businesses and industries. The OAC helps by reviewing and recommending curriculum, training, equipment, and helps with job placement and other student opportunities. Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development, is proud to serve on the Occupational Advisory Committee at the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County. Together with local educators and industry partners, we’re helping to align classroom learning with workforce needs and prepare students for successful careers.
