2024–25 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Graduation The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its community leadership and professional development division, Leadership Lackawanna, is proud to announce the graduation of the 2024–25 class of Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT)—a transformative program that prepares high school juniors for leadership roles in their communities. The ceremony took place at the Green Ridge Club in Scranton. Sponsored by NBT Bank, the TLT program spans seven months, immersing students in hands-on experiences across essential sectors, including healthcare, STEAM, history and heritage, crime and corrections, financial literacy, philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, and community service. Program Coordinator, Jen Strzelec states:“We are proud to congratulate the 67 remarkable teens of the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Program. We’re confident they’ll use the skills and knowledge they gained over the last seven months to positively impact their schools and communities as confident and capable young leaders”. The TLT program provides these young leaders with unique opportunities to develop critical leadership, interpersonal, and managerial skills. Throughout the program, students engaged in workshops, field visits, and interactive discussions led by regional experts and industry leaders, preparing them for the real-world challenges and opportunities that await them. The class participants are: Audrey Agnello, Western Wayne High School Kathryn Apolinario, Holy Cross High School Emily Atonal, Scranton High School Molly Banik, Mid Valley Secondary Center Lauren Bartell, Abington Heights High School Lindsey Bartell, Abington Heights High School Wyatt Barucky, Forest City Regional High School Madelyn Battaglia, Riverside Jr/Sr High School Nathan Beecham, Riverside Jr/Sr High School Grace Bennett, Abington Heights High School Anthony Betti, Mid Valley Secondary Center Molly Carter, Valley View High SchoolMya Cesarini, Valley View High School Nora Crambo, Lakeland Jr/Sr High SchoolKiera Crowell, Abington Heights High School Joshua Cuck, Scranton Preparatory School Addison Daiute, Valley View High SchoolKaylyn Davis, Lakeland Jr/Sr High School Ryan DeMarco, Old Forge High School Gabriella Dennis, Scranton Preparatory School Timothy Fogley, Abington Heights High School Natalia Ghirelli, Lakeland Jr/Sr High SchoolJoseph Griffin, Commonwealth Charter Academy Emily Grover, Carbondale Area Jr/Sr High School Emma Guse, North Pocono High SchoolKatie Gutekunst, North Pocono High School Madison Hallock, Valley View High School Sona Hanumali, Abington Heights High School Gabrielle Jordan, Riverside Jr/ Sr High School Matthew Kirchner, Dunmore Jr/Sr High SchoolBrendan Korty, Forest City Regional High School Krithika Krishnan, Dunmore Jr/Sr High School Maryn Kukuchka, Tunkhannock Area High School Benjamin Kulikowski, Riverside Jr/Sr High SchoolOlivia Lach, Lakeland Jr/Sr High SchoolOlivia Lawler, Carbondale Area Jr/Sr High School Emily Loomis, Valley View High SchoolMadeleine Mackarey, Scranton Preparatory School Andrew McDonald, Abington Heights High School Khloe Mistishin, Western Wayne High School William Murphy, Carbondale Area Jr/Sr High School Julia Noto, Dunmore Jr/Sr High SchoolIsabelle O’Brien, Scranton High School Kathryn O’Hora, Riverside Jr/ Sr High School Olive O’Rourke, Abington Heights High School Mia Peregrim, Old Forge High SchoolKate Peters, Abington Heights High School James Prislupski, Holy Cross High School Natalie Puckett, Triboro Christian Academy Benjamin Reese, Abington Heights High School Ava Roberto, Scranton High SchoolGavin Roberts, Lakeland Jr/Sr High School Emmelia Rucks, Commonwealth Charter Academy Madison Smith, Abington Heights High School Kelsey Smith, North Pocono High SchoolCharlie Stampien, Abington Heights High School Ava Strzelec, North Pocono High SchoolNatalie Talluto, Mid Valley Secondary Center Raphael Thomas, Scranton Preparatory School Aidan Tinney, Mid Valley Secondary CenterJaiden Trunzo, Lackawanna Trail Jr/Sr High School Nmesoma Udoye, Scranton High SchoolGianna Vachino, Abington Heights High School Kevin Vincent Jr., Holy Cross High School Luke Warring, Scranton High SchoolKiley Williams, Riverside Jr/ Sr High School Ava Wisnosky, Tunkhannock Area High School
Chamber Celebrates the Dedication of Burke Drive and Goodrich Way Local leaders, community members, and honored guests gathered on Friday to celebrate the official dedication of Burke Drive and Goodrich Way—two roadways that now mark the entrances to the newly developed Archbald Business Park to honor of Austin J. Burke and Virginia Goodrich. Burke served as the president of The Chamber from 1975 to 2013. During his tenure, The Chamber and its development arms were recognized nationally for their sustained responses to a wide range of community needs. Chamber affiliates, Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises (LIFE) and Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO) reclaimed thousands of acres of mine-scarred land for productive reuse as industrial, office, and technology parks—including Valley View Business Park. In addition, LIFE and SLIBCO financed and constructed more than 350 buildings that continue to employ thousands in Scranton and throughout Lackawanna County. “The Valley View Business Park was developed to create job opportunities for our neighbors and for the region. These projects always require sustained efforts among many partners. I’m grateful to have been a part of this splendid undertaking. I’m also humbled and delighted that the Chamber and Archbald Borough are honoring Virginia Goodrich and me for the parts we played,” shared Austin J. Burke. Goodrich, former executive secretary to the president of The Chamber from 1965 to 2023, spent nearly 60 years assisting the region’s economic and business growth. Her devotion to community development was evident in her work at The Chamber and in the organizations in which she volunteered. “I am truly honored to be recognized by The Chamber and [Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company] SLIBCO with the designation of Goodrich Way. My sincere thanks to the officers and board of directors of SLIBCO for this very personal and meaningful tribute,” expressed Virginia Goodrich. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the formal unveiling of the newly dedicated roads, commemorating Burke and Goodrich’s leadership, service, and enduring impact in attracting, sustaining, and growing jobs and community investment throughout Lackawanna County. “The dedication of Burke Drive and Goodrich Way marks a significant milestone for our community and stands as a testament to the lasting impact of two leaders who shaped the future of our business landscape,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “These roadways now serve as enduring tributes to their contributions to the continued growth and success of the economy in northeastern Pennsylvania.” The Chamber, along with its business development division and program, the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), and The Scranton Plan, extends its gratitude to all who attended and helped make this day a memorable tribute to two individuals whose influence will be felt for generations to come. View the Photo Album online.
Nearly 900 Attend EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience Nearly 900 women from northeastern Pennsylvania gathered for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, a premier women’s leadership event hosted by The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and presented by Geisinger. The day-long program at Kalahari Convention Centers and Resort brought together professionals, students, and changemakers for inspiration, connection, and growth. This year’s event featured two keynote speakers, 44 regional leaders, and 90 high school students—making it one of the most impactful EMPOWER programs. The day started with a breakfast keynote speaker, Christina Butler, an executive communication coach, whose presentation was sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust. Butler energized the crowd with a session focused on clear, concise, and confident communication. She encouraged attendees to eliminate filler phrases and distractions from their language and instead focus on their “why” and “how” to deliver messages that resonate with purpose and poise. Dominique Dawes, Olympic gold medalist and trailblazing gymnast, headlined the afternoon session as the lunch keynote speaker, with support from PNC Bank. Dawes inspired the audience with stories from her athletic and professional journey, emphasizing the importance of teamwork over ego. “Leave your ego at the door,” she urged attendees. “Greatness is not achieved alone—it’s about what we accomplish together.” In addition to the powerful keynotes, the event included breakout sessions led by 44 regional speakers representing healthcare, education, finance, media, and entrepreneurship. The sessions covered topics from leadership strategies and mental wellness to business innovation. “The energy in the room was electric,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “EMPOWER continues to grow in reach and impact every year, and this event truly highlighted the strength and potential of women leaders in our region.” EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, is part of The Chamber’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful programming that supports women in leadership and professional development across northeastern Pennsylvania.
Leadership Lackawanna Alumni Volunteer Opportunity Calling all Alumni! We’d love for you to join us as we revisit the Core Program 2023–2024 Parker Street Landing project. ICYMI, this project incorporated a picnic area, sensory garden, raised flower beds, interpretive signage, and an educational space at Parker Street Trailhead in the Greenridge section of Scranton. We ask that you bring your own gardening supplies. If you’d also like to BYO flowers, herbs, and soil, or seed packets for the seed library, that would be greatly appreciated! Date: Saturday, May 10th at 10 a.m. Location: Parker Street Landing, 12 E. Parker Street, Scranton, PA 18508 RSVP to Jen at jstrzelec@scrantonchamber.com by Friday, May 9th Hope to see you there!
The Chamber Welcomes New Finance Manager, Betsy Hartshorn The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Betsy Hartshorn as its new Finance Manager. Hartshorn brings more than two decades of experience in accounting and financial management, with a strong background in nonprofit finance, grant management, and strategic budgeting. In her new role, Hartshorn will oversee financial operations across The Chamber and its divisions: Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises (LIFE), Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), The Scranton Plan and IGNITE Program, MetroAction, Skills in Scranton, and Leadership Lackawanna, ensuring fiscal integrity, efficiency, and compliance. She will work closely with Chamber leadership to implement innovative financial strategies and enhance operational effectiveness. “On behalf of The Chamber, I am pleased that Betsy Hartshorn has become part of our team, shared Jim Coleman, vice president of internal administration. Betsy’s vast experience will certainly have a significant impact within the finance department as we look forward to implementing new initiatives!” Prior to joining The Chamber, Hartshorn served as finance manager for the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC), where she managed complex budgets spanning multiple countries, oversaw grant funding, and ensured regulatory compliance. She also held key financial roles at Marywood University, where she gained extensive experience in financial reporting, budget preparation, and administrative operations. A Certified Public Accountant, Hartshorn earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Marywood University, graduating magna cum laude. She is dedicated to financial excellence and looks forward to bringing her leadership and expertise to the Chamber. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is the region’s premier business membership organization, committed to fostering economic growth, workforce development, and community prosperity. With a strong focus on innovation and collaboration, the Chamber continues to support businesses of all sizes throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
Add Your Voice: Support for Penn State Scranton Dear Chamber Members, As many of you are aware, Penn State University is currently evaluating the future of its commonwealth campuses—including Penn State Scranton. This decision could significantly impact our region’s educational access, workforce development, and overall economic vitality. On behalf of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, we have sent a letter to Penn State President Dr. Neeli Bendapudi urging the university to recognize the critical role the Scranton campus plays in our community and to preserve its presence in northeastern Pennsylvania. We encourage you to download and review our letter here: 👉 Download The Chamber’s Letter In partnership with community and business leaders, we are now preparing a second communication to Penn State University leadership—this time including a list of signatories from across the region who share our concerns and support. If you or your organization would like to sign on in support and provide comments or testimony to the Scranton campus impact, please click the link below and complete the brief form by Friday, April 25. 👉 Add Your Name to the Letter of Support Together, we can send a strong and unified message that Penn State Scranton is a vital part of our community—and must remain so for generations to come. Thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Chamber Leadership
Educator in the Workplace Program Equips Teachers with Real-World Insight to Strengthen Student Career Readiness The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, recently concluded its 2024–25 Educator in the Workplace program, providing participating educators with valuable, hands-on experiences at local businesses to help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. This year’s Educator in the Workplace program was made possible through a grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Robert H. Spitz Foundation, along with generous sponsorships from Pennsylvania American Water and Cardinal LG. The program placed educators into dynamic workplace environments across key industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and business services. Through immersive site visits, panel discussions, and professional development sessions, educators explored high-priority occupations in Northeastern Pennsylvania, gained a deeper understanding of evolving workforce needs, and learned about the career readiness skills that today’s employers value. Educators gained insights into topics such as: Business and economic development resources available to students and educators Regional high-priority occupations and workforce trends in Northeastern Pennsylvania Career pathway development and how to align classroom instruction with workforce needs “Educator in the Workplace is about building meaningful connections between our schools and local industries. By immersing educators in real-world work environments, we help bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness. The insights gained through this program empower educators to better prepare their students for the opportunities that exist right here in northeastern Pennsylvania, said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Participants left the program energized and equipped with strategies to help students better understand career opportunities available across northeastern Pennsylvania—and the skills they’ll need to pursue them. “Participating in the Educator in the Workplace program opened doors I never imagined for my students,” shared Sherri Ransom, transition coordinator at Mountain View High School. “Because of the partnerships we built, three of our students were hired by Simplex Industries for internships, and three more were accepted into a career-building program with Geisinger. This experience has been transformative—not just for me as an educator, but for the future of our students.” The 2024–25 Educator in the Workplace cohort included the following participants: Bonnie Baker, Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Lisa Bath, Abington Heights School District Gena Bensinger, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 William Buza, Mid Valley School District Amy Capman, Mid Valley School District Jessica Capwell, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 Brian Carey, Scranton School District Tara Carey, Scranton School District Mary Kate Culkin, Scranton School District Arianne DelSordo, Old Forge School District Terri Erdmann, Forest City Regional School District William Freeman, Lakeland School District Andrea Gross, Scranton School District Jennifer Herman, Scranton School District Maria Hurst, Scranton School District Jessica Judge, Scranton School District Jane Kabuiku, SCI Waymart Christine Kallinger-Allen, Abington Heights School District Stephanie Klinkel, Scranton School District Samantha Krenitsky, Scranton School District Christopher Lazor, Riverside School District Buford Lively, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 Emily Lutz, Scranton School District Laurie Marino, Valley View School District Marie Merkel, Scranton School District John Moran, Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Sandy Morahan, Forest City Regional School District Landon Morey, Montrose Area School District Janelle Cortino, Scranton School District Jessica Norris, Scranton School District Kathleen Nycz, Old Forge School District Carm Perri, Carbondale Area School District Cynthia Petrucci, Scranton School District Gabrielle Pidgeon, Carbondale Area School District Sheri Ransom, Mountain View School District Bernadette Schumacher, Mid Valley School District Shauna Williams, Blue Ridge School District Tim Wolff, Scranton School District Maureen Walsh, Scranton School District Marc Wyandt, Lakeland School District This initiative continues to strengthen the collaboration between education and industry, ensuring students are not only academically prepared but also career-ready.
The Chamber Hosts Congressman Rob Bresnahan for Capitol Conversations The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently hosted Congressman Rob Bresnahan for the first 2025 session of Capitol Conversations—a series designed to foster open dialogue between business leaders and government officials. The event provided a platform to discuss key issues impacting northeastern Pennsylvania’s economy, workforce, and business landscape. Congressman Bresnahan, moderated by Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber, addressed several pressing topics, including workforce development, housing, childcare, and the challenges facing small businesses. On tariffs, Bresnahan noted that while business owners are adaptable, sudden tariff hikes place undue strain on Americans. He advocated for incremental increases instead of abrupt policy changes. When discussing the housing market, he pointed out how tariffs on supplies influence interest rates and the overall cost of building materials. He called for a stronger push for domestic production and noted that tariffs remain an executive order, not a congressional action. Bresnahan also addressed the ongoing workforce challenges at Tobyhanna Army Depot. He stressed Tobyhanna’s importance as an economic driver, with local companies playing a critical role in its operations. The conversation also covered the Small Business Administration (SBA). Congressman Bresnahan urged the SBA to improve its outreach efforts and more effectively distribute funding to small businesses, recognizing their significant contribution to the region’s economy. Childcare was another focal point, and the congressman emphasized its connection to workforce development. He discussed the difficulty of finding qualified staff and the need for increased support to help families afford services. Tourism, a vital industry for the region, was also discussed. Bresnahan acknowledged the sector’s ongoing workforce challenges and stressed the need for improved self-promotion to combat negative self-perception. “The Capitol Conversations series offers a unique opportunity for our members to connect one-on-one with our elected officials,” shared Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “We thank Congressman Bresnahan for his openness to listening to and discussing these issues critical to our business community.” The Chamber’s Capitol Conversations series will continue to bring policymakers and business leaders together, fostering meaningful dialogue and driving advocacy efforts that support economic growth in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Skills in Scranton Empowers Future Workforce at Summit Skills in Scranton, the workforce development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, successfully hosted the 2025 Workforce Summit on Thursday, March 20, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. The event brought together over 200 students from eight regional school districts, more than 50 regional employers, and over 150 job-seeking walk-ins. Designed to bridge the gap between career opportunities and students who may not be college-bound, the summit showcased viable career paths available in northeastern Pennsylvania. The event featured dynamic keynote presentations by Ryan Leckey of Ryan Leckey Media and Marc Gonzalez of Site2. Both speakers offered valuable insights on career development, workforce trends, and strategies for growth in today’s evolving job market. Between the keynote sessions, attendees participated in panel discussions covering topics such as manufacturing, the trades, and professional development. Students and job seekers also had the chance to network with local employers, explore job openings, and engage in interactive career sessions focused on workforce readiness. “The Workforce Summit is an incredible opportunity for students and job seekers to connect directly with employers who are eager to hire local talent,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist at The Chamber. “By providing hands-on career exploration and professional development resources, we’re ensuring that our future workforce is prepared to succeed in the dynamic job market of northeastern Pennsylvania.” By fostering direct connections between employers and future employees, the Workforce Summit continues to strengthen the regional economy. Skills in Scranton remains committed to delivering impactful programs that address the area’s workforce needs, ensuring students and job seekers have the resources and opportunities to build meaningful careers in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Strzelec Named Top 25 Women in Business Honoree by NEPA Business Journal The leadership of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Jennifer Strzelec, program coordinator for its community leadership and professional development division, Leadership Lackawanna, has been selected as an honoree for the prestigious Top 25 Women in Business by the NEPA Business Journal. The NEPA Business Journal’s Top 25 Women in Business recognizes outstanding women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, community involvement, and professional success throughout the region. As program coordinator, Strzelec plays a vital role in advancing Leadership Lackawanna’s mission to cultivate community leadership and foster professional development across northeastern Pennsylvania. She primarily supports the Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) program, a seven-month initiative designed for high school juniors. In this capacity, Strzelec oversees recruitment, marketing, evaluations, and administrative operations. Her leadership ensures that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the essential skills and knowledge they need. In addition to managing TLT, Strzelec runs Leadership Lackawanna’s collegiate initiatives and alumni engagement, fostering a lifelong network of leadership and community involvement. Strzelec brings a diverse background to her role. She previously gained valuable experience as a preschool aide in Mt. Cobb and at the YMCA in King George, Virginia. Her commitment to service extends beyond education, as she is a veteran of the United States Army, where she served in the avionics division at both Fort Hood, Texas, and Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. “This honor is a true reflection of her talent and hard work, and I’m very proud to see her recognized. Indeed, it is a testament to her dedication, not only to Leadership Lackawanna but to our community,” shared Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna.
