Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Hosts PennDOT Officials for Capitol Conversations Series Elected officials, along with business and community leaders, gathered at The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce on June 19, for another Capitol Conversation series, featuring a transportation and infrastructure update from the Pennsylvania Secretary of Transportation Michael Carroll and PennDOT District 4 Executive Jonathan Eboli, P.E. Secretary Carroll addressed transportation funding challenges and their impact on PennDOT projects, including the addition of third lanes along spans of Interstate 81 the status of proposed Scranton-N.Y. passenger rail service, and the proposed Scranton Beltway projects. District Executive Eboli and Secretary Carroll gave updates on upcoming infrastructure investments throughout Lackawanna County, including improvements to Keystone Industrial Park Road, bridge preservation work on the North Scranton Expressway, the rehabilitation of Cedar Avenue and Spruce Street, and a future bridge replacement project on West Lackawanna Avenue. The officials also highlighted Operation Yellow Jacket, a partnership between PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police aimed at improving work zone safety. Recent legislation and speed cameras have helped reduce speeding in work zones, but he noted continued efforts are needed to protect workers. Capitol Conversations is an informational series sponsored by The Chamber under the Government Affairs Committee. The sessions feature elected and appointed officials speaking with Chamber leaders and members on topics of importance to the business community.
Leadership Lackawanna Recognizes 2026 Core Program Graduates at Celebration of Leadership Leadership Lackawanna, the community leadership and professional development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, hosted its 2026 Celebration of Leadership event, which honored participants in Leadership Lackawanna’s 10-month Core Program on Thursday, June 18, 2026. The event was held at Hilton Scranton & Conference Center, and included business networking, an end-of-year review and video, and raffles, along with the presentation of certificates to graduates. Graduates of the program were recognized for their commitment throughout 10 months of leadership development, learning, and participation in one of four class projects. A highlight of the program, class projects in collaboration with Countryside Conservancy, Friendship House, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and the Greater Scranton YMCA were commended during the ceremony. Working with Countryside Conservancy, members of the Core class assisted in renovating part of the conservancy’s outdoor space by building a new bridge, clearing vegetation, installing signage, and creating a picnic area. Another group partnered with Friendship House to renovate a classroom within the Autism Center, repainting and redesigning the space to create a more welcoming environment. Core participants also collaborated with United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania to modernize the organization’s Angel’s Attic facility, which provides food and clothing to neighbors in need. In partnership with the Greater Scranton YMCA, members of the class also helped launch the “Foundations for the Future Project,” an initiative focused on improving the YMCA’s recreational and learning spaces. Read more about the 2026 Core Program Class Projects. Leadership Lackawanna extends thanks to the sponsors of the 2026 Core Program including designBLD, Penn East Federal Credit Union, PPL Electric Utilities, Quandel Construction Group, Inc., Maximus Foundation, Geisinger, Times Shamrock Communications, PNC Bank, Center City Print, Friendship House, and Golden Technologies. Leadership Lackawanna also recognizes the graduates of its 2026 Core Program for their commitment throughout the 10-month leadership experience. 2026 Core Program Graduates Amanda Friday – Peoples Security Bank & Trust Amanda Lyn Brown – Penn East Federal Credit Union Anthony Salva, LCSW – Integrative Mind and Body Services Brittani Pulse – Nunzi’s Advertising Christopher M. Pahoski – Benco Dental Courtney Rittenhouse – Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Daneece A. Jones – Greater Scranton YMCA Deanna Smith – AAA North Penn Diana Latsko – Maximus Federal Services Douglas A. Hein – Scranton Counseling Center Eric Eiden – Lackawanna College Haley Houck – Fidelity Bank Jason Carpenter – designBLD John Conte lll – The Honesdale National Bank John P Joyce – Lackawanna County Jose Santiago de los Rios – Tuxedo by Sarno Joshua Cole Howells – Allied Services Julianna Cardillo – Penn State (Scranton) Linda Beck – United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Madison Theobald – Penn East Federal Credit Union Maria Day – Penn State (Scranton) Mateo Arroyopabon – The Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company Matt Coolbaugh – Quandel Construction Group, Inc. Pete Gentile – City of Scranton Sarah Bauman – Montage Mountain Resorts Walter Kosak – Plaskolite
Two Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Alumni Awarded Prestigious America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarships The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Lackawanna proudly announce that two former students of the Leadership Lackawanna’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) program have been awarded $10,000 scholarships through the America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program. Ava Wisnosky, a senior at Tunkhannock Area High School, and Anthony Betti, a senior at Mid Valley Secondary Center, were selected among just 25 students statewide to receive the prestigious scholarship. The recipients were recognized during a special luncheon in April at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg hosted by Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and America250PA. The America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program honors Pennsylvania students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and understanding of civic values. More than 1,800 students representing all 67 Pennsylvania counties applied for the scholarship. Each recipient received a $10,000 award to support their pursuit of higher education. Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, a program of Leadership Lackawanna, engages high school juniors throughout northeastern Pennsylvania in leadership development, community awareness, civic engagement, and professional growth opportunities designed to prepare them to become the next generation of leaders. “We are incredibly proud of Ava and Anthony for receiving this prestigious scholarship,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “To be selected among more than 1,800 applicants from across all Pennsylvania counties is an extraordinary accomplishment and a reflection of their leadership, character, and commitment to making a difference. Watching these former Tomorrow’s Leaders Today students achieve such a significant honor reinforces the importance of investing in our young people and providing opportunities for them to grow as leaders.” Wisnosky, who plans to attend West Chester University, reflected on the significance of receiving the scholarship. “I am truly grateful to receive the America250PA scholarship. Pennsylvania’s role at the heart of American history makes this award especially meaningful,” said Wisnosky. “This recognition motivates me to continue working hard as I pursue my education and make the most of the opportunities ahead. I also truly appreciated receiving the award from the Governor and the First Lady and meeting the other award winners at the luncheon in Harrisburg.” Betti, who will attend Penn State University, emphasized the role that leadership experiences have played in his development. “Being named an America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholar is an honor that fills me with deep gratitude,” said Betti. “The leadership opportunities I’ve had—especially through programs like Leadership Lackawanna—have shaped my commitment to service, civic responsibility, and community engagement. Receiving this distinction strengthens my dedication to leading with integrity and purpose as I begin my next chapter.” The recognition highlights the impact of Leadership Lackawanna’s investment in developing young leaders and fostering civic engagement among students throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. As the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, programs such as Tomorrow’s Leaders Today continue to inspire students to become active, engaged citizens who will help shape the future of their communities and the Commonwealth.
Celebration of Leadership Honors Exemplary Graduating Class Leadership Lackawanna will host its annual Celebration of Leadership on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center from 11:45 AM to 1:45 PM. This milestone event will honor Leadership Lackawanna’s 43-year history of developing visionary leaders, fostering excellence, and creating lasting impact throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Most importantly, the celebration will recognize and honor the graduates of the 2026 Core Program. Community members, alumni, business leaders, and supporters are invited to attend and join in the celebration. Over the past 10 months, participants in this year’s Core Program completed several community service projects benefiting nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Scranton region. Projects included bridge construction and outdoor enhancements for Countryside Conservancy, the “A Room to Grow” classroom renovation for Friendship House Autism Center, modernization efforts at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Angel Attic, and the launch of significant outdoor improvements at the Greater Scranton YMCA. In addition to celebrating the accomplishments of the graduating class, the event will feature business networking opportunities, an end-of-year program review and video presentation, basket raffles, and recognition of the many individuals and organizations that make Leadership Lackawanna’s mission possible. All are welcome to attend and celebrate another year of leadership, service, and community impact. Tickets for this event are currently on sale and can be purchased at www.LeadershipLackawanna.com Leadership Lackawanna extends thanks to the sponsors of the 2026 Core program: designBLD, Penn East Federal Credit Union, Quandel Construction, Maximus Foundation, Geisinger, Times Shamrock Communications, PNC Bank, Center City Print, Friendship House, Golden Technologies, and PPL Electric. Graduates of Leadership Lackawanna’s 2026 Core Program include: Amanda Friday – Peoples Security Bank Amanda Lyn Brown – Penn East Federal Credit Union Anthony Salva, LCSW – Integrative Mind and Body Services Brittani Pulse – Nunzi’s Advertising Christopher M. Pahoski – Benco Dental Courtney Rittenhouse – Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Daneece A. Jones – Greater Scranton YMCA Deanna Smith – AAA North Penn Diana Latsko – Maximus Federal Services Douglas A. Hein – Scranton Counseling Center Eric Eiden – Lackawanna College Haley Houck – Fidelity Bank Jason Carpenter – designBLD John Conte lll – The Honesdale National Bank John P Joyce – Lackawanna County Jose Santiago de los Rios – Tuxedo by Sarno Joshua Cole Howells – Allied Services Julianna Cardillo – Penn State University (Scranton) Linda Beck – United Neighborhood Centers Madison Theobald – Penn East Federal Credit Union Maria Day – Penn State University (Scranton) Mateo Arroyopabon – Procter & Gamble Matt Coolbaugh – Quandel Construction Group LLC Pete Gentile – City of Scranton Sarah Bauman – Montage Mountain Resorts Walter Kosak – Plaskolite
Leadership Lackawanna Awards Abington Heights Student with TLT’s Senior Scholarship Leadership Lackawanna, the professional development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is excited to award this year’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) Senior Scholarship to candidate Lauren Bartell. “It has been a privilege to work with Lauren Bartell during her time in the program,” states Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Watching Lauren’s personal and professional growth throughout the program has been incredibly rewarding, and she has made a lasting impression on both her peers and our organization. Lauren has demonstrated all the qualities of an outstanding leader and will no doubt accomplish great things in the next steps of her education and career.” A part of TLT’s 2025–26 class, Bartell is a dedicated learner and a worthy recipient for this award. After her upcoming graduation from Abington Heights High School, Bartell will take her talents to the University of Pittsburgh to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Tomorrows Leaders Today fosters young business professionals who are sure to become leaders of northeastern Pennsylvania. With the help and generosity of over 2,600 Leadership Lackawanna alumni, this scholarship and additional funding initiatives continue to sustain and strengthen our six programs. The Senior Scholarship is awarded annually to an alumnus of the program who showcases exemplary leadership skills to support their school and community. Leadership Lackawanna is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Its five programs enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them to better serve in our communities, workplaces, and organizations. Established in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has graduated more than 2,700 community leaders. For more information, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Two Summer Interns The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the addition of two summer interns, Katherine Barnansky and Tessa Pollack, who will support organizational initiatives through its Business and Leadership development division this summer. Katherine Barnansky Tessa Pollack Barnansky will serve as The Chamber’s business development Intern. In this role, she will assist with business outreach, workforce development initiatives, marketing projects, research, and communications efforts that support economic growth throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. She is currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management at Penn State University. Pollack will return to The Chamber for a second internship. This summer, she will support the Leadership Development division, Leadership Lackawanna, by assisting with marketing and communications initiatives, social media management, and program coordination. She previously served as a communications intern in the summer of 2025, and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing at West Virginia University. “We are thrilled to welcome Tessa back to The Chamber and Leadership Lackawanna,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Her prior experience with our organization and strong communications background make her a valuable addition to the team as we continue to grow and strengthen our programming. Additionally, we are excited to welcome Katherine to our team and look forward to the perspective and enthusiasm she will bring to our business development efforts.” For more information about The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Lackawanna, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Announces Two New Staff Members The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Emilie Gebert and Elena Kiernan to its staff team, further strengthening the organization’s workforce development and administrative operations. Emilie Gebert (on the left in the photo) joins The Chamber as workforce & leadership assistant. In this role, she supports Leadership Lackawanna, Skills in Scranton, and The Scranton Plan through administrative coordination, event support, and program operations that strengthen workforce development and community leadership across the region. Gebert brings nearly two decades of experience in customer relations, sales leadership, team development, and operational management through her career in the telecommunications industry. She earned a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University. Outside of her role at The Chamber, Gebert serves as Assistant Director of the Montage Ski Patrol, where she helps oversee volunteer coordination and guest safety operations. Elena Kiernan (on the right in the photo) joins The Chamber as a front desk receptionist, serving as the first point of contact for members, visitors, tenants, and guests while supporting daily office operations across the organization. Kiernan has more than 15 years of experience in administrative support, customer service, event coordination, and office management. Her professional background includes positions within the travel and hospitality, legal, and finance industries, where she coordinated meetings and events, managed executive schedules, and provided administrative support in fast-paced corporate environments. She earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and completed additional coursework through New York University. “The addition of Emilie and Elena further strengthens our team and enhances the support we provide to our members, programs, and regional initiatives,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to service will be valuable assets to The Chamber and the community we serve.”
EMPOWER 2026 Draws More Than 900 Attendees as Jodi Kantor Headlines Transformational Day of Leadership More than 900 professionals from across northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond gathered Thursday, April 30, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, presented by Geisinger; a premier annual event designed to inspire, connect, and elevate leaders at every stage of their journey. Headlined by nationally recognized journalist and author Jodi Kantor, the conference delivered a powerful and forward-thinking program centered on leadership, growth, and action. Kantor, best known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporting at The New York Times, brought a compelling message to the EMPOWER stage, drawing from her latest book, How to Start. Her keynote challenged attendees to rethink how meaningful change begins, encouraging individuals to take initiative, embrace uncertainty, and lead with purpose in their professional and personal lives. The day began with an energizing breakfast keynote from Dr. Katie P. Desiderio, an organizational learning and leadership scholar, executive coach, and national bestselling author, who set the tone for the experience with a message focused on resilience, mindset, and intentional leadership. Her remarks encouraged attendees to reflect on their personal and professional paths, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the power of leading with clarity and confidence in times of change. Throughout the day, EMPOWER offered a dynamic and immersive experience featuring more than 45 regional speakers across breakout sessions, panel discussions, and moderated conversations. Attendees engaged with nearly 40 small businesses in the vendor marketplace and participated in wellness-focused programming, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, led by nine presenters, creating opportunities for both personal and professional development. EMPOWER featured several immersive experiences designed to inspire and engage attendees throughout the day. The Dream Tree, sponsored by Luzerne County Community College, invited participants to write down and display their aspirations, serving as a powerful reminder that their goals are within reach. New for 2026, Johnson College sponsored the Leadership Lounge, a space where attendees could recharge both personally and professionally while enjoying fresh popcorn and convenient device charging. Fidelity Bank also sponsored a dynamic Content Studio, giving attendees the opportunity to step in, strike a pose, and showcase the power of you. The next generation of leaders was also a central focus, with more than 80 high school students taking part in the EMPOWER TEEN Program, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank. The experience provided students with early exposure to leadership development, mentorship, and career exploration. Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the impact of the event on the region’s workforce and leadership pipeline. “I am pleased that the Empower Program continues to resonate with business professionals and students across northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond. I think this speaks to the quality and value of the programming that addresses the interests of participants at all levels of professional development. I also want to acknowledge and thank our many sponsors and partners who make this program a success, year after year,” Durkin said. EMPOWER continues to grow as a cornerstone leadership event for the region, bringing together individuals from diverse industries and backgrounds to share ideas, build connections, and drive momentum forward. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce will host the next EMPOWER conference on April 22, 2027. Check out the 2026 EMPOWER Conference photos at this link.
Chamber Staff Member, Emily Pettinato, Completes National Fellowship for Talent Development The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce congratulates Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, who has been recognized among 18 chamber professionals nationwide for successfully completing the 2025–2026 Fellowship for Talent Development through the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation. The six-month fellowship equips chamber leaders with tools to address workforce challenges and strengthen regional talent pipelines. Participants gain a deeper understanding of their regional talent ecosystem and develop actionable solutions to support economic growth. “We are proud to recognize this exceptional group of chamber leaders for completing the Fellowship for Talent Development,” said ACCE President & CEO, Sheree Anne Kelly. “Through their work, they have moved beyond learning to action, developing strategies that address workforce challenges, strengthen regional talent pipelines, and drive long-term economic prosperity in their communities.” As part of the program, Pettinato developed a regional action plan focused on tackling critical workforce issues. Fellowship projects emphasized strengthening talent pipelines through improved systems alignment, increasing employer engagement, and building skills-based career pathways. “This experience gave me a stronger understanding of our community by developing a regional action plan focused on identifying workforce gaps and opportunities,” said Pettinato. “It also helped inspire new ideas to expand workforce programming and strengthen connections between businesses and education partners.” “As part of the Fellowship with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, Emily has demonstrated strong leadership in turning workforce development strategy into action,” stated Amy Luyster, vice president, business and workforce development for The Chamber. “Her work directly advances The Scranton Plan 3.0 initiative by strengthening the alignment between employers, education partners, and workforce partners. This recognition reflects her commitment to building a more connected, skills-driven talent pipeline that supports long-term regional growth and opportunity.”
Bridging Talent to Opportunity: 2026 Workforce Summit Drives Momentum for the Next Generation Workforce The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, hosted the 2026 Workforce Summit, presented by Lackawanna County, which brought together a dynamic cross-section of our regional workforce ecosystem on Thursday, March 19, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. Bringing together employers, trade unions, job seekers, educators, and high school students (275+ students, 10 public school districts, and CTCLC) in one space is no small feat, and the impact of that collaboration was clear throughout the event. The energy, engagement, and meaningful connections made are a testament to the thoughtful planning and hard work behind the scenes. Nearly 50 vendors were on-site, representing a wide range of industries including banking, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, the skilled trades, and more—providing attendees with direct access to career pathways, resources, and real-world insight into today’s evolving workforce landscape. Attendees gained valuable insights from keynote presenters Ryan Leckey, founder and CEO of Ryan Leckey Media, and Kimberlee Greenleaf, senior account executive from Audacy Pennsylvania, who delivered compelling perspectives on communication, media, and workforce engagement based on their own personal journeys. Emily Pettinto, workforce development specialist, shares, “What makes this event meaningful is that students aren’t just learning about careers, they are having real conversations with employers who are actively hiring. That level of access helps them ask better questions, make connections, and leave with a clearer understanding of what comes next.” From hands-on interactions to meaningful dialogue, the Summit reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening the workforce pipeline and creating opportunity across our region.
