Educator in the Workplace Finishes 2023 Cohort Scranton, PA—Skills in Scranton, the workforce development affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, concluded the 2023 Educator in the Workplace (EIW) program on Thursday, May 4. The program was partially funded by the City of Scranton American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Non-Profit COVID Relief Grant and sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water and the Scranton Area Community Foundation. Twenty-six participants, including teachers, school counselors, principals, administrators, and school board directors, participated in the cohort, learning about Northeastern PA’s in-demand careers and industries. Various sessions included a State of the Workforce presentation, tour of the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County, an in-depth look into manufacturing regionally, on-site business tours, presentations by CareerLink Lackawanna and a facilitated curriculum writing session. “The EIW program provides an opportunity for educators to learn from and network with community business leaders and peers from adjacent school districts,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Participants share best practices, career pathways resources and essential career skills that can be brought back to their districts and integrated into classroom instruction. The resources provided by the EIW program is supporting the development of a robust regional talent pipeline.” Throughout the 2023 EIW program, the participants have applied what was learned during the program integrating basic workforce skills into classroom instruction. Takeaway lessons included interviewing, resume writing, clocking into class to earn credit, and simulating real-time workplace practices. The Chamber and Skills in Scranton have begun preparations for next year’s EIW cohorts. For more information or to register for future EIW programs, contact Emily Pettinato at epettinato@scrantonchamber.com or visit www.SkillsinScranton.com. The 2023 Educator in the Workplace participants Include: Johanna Chorba, Scranton School DistrictThomas Murray, Scranton School DistrictHayley Miller, Scranton School DistrictLaurie Marino, Valley View School DistrictJohn Fox, Riverside School DistrictRichard Hensel, Scranton School DistrictKarlene Cicco, Scranton School DistrictBonnie Baker, Career Technology Center of Lackawanna CountySamantha Masco, Carbondale Area School DistrictLicia Olivetti, Carbondale Area School DistrictDalyana Gillette, Scranton School DistrictJohn Ray, Scranton School DistrictNanine Gramigna, Scranton School DistrictJessica Norris, Scranton School DistrictGabrielle Pidgeon, Carbondale Area School DistrictAmanda O’Brien, Scranton School DistrictCarrie Wittenbrader, Western Wayne School DistrictJessica Capwell, NEIU19Melinda Arcuri, Marywood University Adult Basic Literacy Education ProgramSandy Morahan, Forest City School DistrictTeri Erdmann, Forest City School DistrictKatelyn Phillips, Lakeland School DistrictLarry Pegula, Valley View School DistrictLori Kelley, Valley View School DistrictChristina Burak, Valley View School DistrictMary Swift, Scranton School District About Skills in Scranton Skills in Scranton, an affiliate organization of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, integrate workforce and economic development through collaborative partnerships, connecting industry and education to drive local economic prosperity. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Former Congressman Keynote at 154th Annual Chamber Dinner Scranton, PA—The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announced that the 154th Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, will be held on Wednesday, May 24, at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center. The Annual Dinner celebrates the accomplishments of The Chamber’s past fiscal year and will feature a keynote presentation by Harold Ford, Jr, a former United States Congressman and executive vice president and regional president in New York with PNC Bank. Ford is the executive vice president and regional president of PNC Bank, New York. In this role, he is responsible for new business development and deepening relationships with clients and community organizations. Prior to being named to his current role in February 2023, Ford served as vice chairman of Corporate & Institutional Banking (C&IB) for PNC Bank. Serving as a Congressman for 10 years (1997–2007), he represented the people of Tennessee’s 9th congressional district. He was on the House Financial Services, Budget, and Education Committee and a member of the Congressional Black Caucus. Tickets for the annual dinner are available online at www.ScrantonChamber.com. The Chamber board of directors, staff, and membership looks forward to celebrating all that has been accomplished in the greater Scranton community. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
EMPOWER 2023 YouTube Playlist Watch all EMPOWER 2023 keynote, breakout, and panel sessions on The Chamber’s YouTube channel. Click on the button below to view all videos. WATCH
The IGNITE TechCelerator Program Participants Present Insights As the culmination of their ten-week participation in the TechCelerator at Lackawanna County Program, the principals of eight county based small businesses recently presented insights about their business plans. An enthusiastic audience of funders, coordinators, dignitaries, and supporters applauded the presentations at Penn State Scranton’s new Engineering Building, at the evening event. Each of the presenting small businesses received a $10,000 grant from the program sponsors to support their future growth. The eight businesses are Babinski Co., Gamer Realities, Mass Layer, Neuralytics, McGowan Co., Sensify, Success Fundamentals, Sylf. Future products and services from these companies range from 3D printing services, a self-serve alcohol dispenser, video game production, educational podcasts, and more. Bob Durkin, Greater Scranton Chamber President offered, “Partnering with the other sponsors for the TechCelerator program has extended our efforts to encourage and help develop local entrepreneurs through our Ignite program and moves those budding firms into our robust business development incubator sites.” Ken Okrepkie, Regional Manager of Ben Franklin Technology Partners added, “This first Lackawanna County TechCelerator program to assist early adapting entrepreneurs to develop their ideas into moldable businesses has been an unqualified success. We look to replicate this effort with future classes.” The TechCelerator Program is a collaboration among Lackawanna County, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, and Ben Franklin Technology Partners and tecBRIDGE.
8 Years of EMPOWERING Women Regionally Scranton, PA—The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its eighth annual EMPOWER NEPA Women’s Leadership Conference on Thursday, April 13, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. A full-day conference, EMPOWER featured nationally recognized keynote speakers, Melissa Gilbert and Robyn Hatcher and 32 regional breakout session speakers. Over 800 attendees participated in the conference. Robyn Hatcher, international speaker and communications professional, said in her breakfast keynote, “Fake it till you make it; I hate that phrase; instead, you should Own it While You Hone it.” Hatcher continues, “We were all born with the gifts, the talents, the abilities to make that powerful impact; we just need to own your values.” Themed “Fearless Together,” EMPOWER is the premier Women’s Leadership Conference in NEPA. It highlights the ability all women have to create positive change in their communities and in their own lives – both professionally and personally – while recognizing the extraordinary power that exists when women come together to support each other. Presenting Sponsor, Dr. Julie Byerley from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine EMPOWER’s lunch keynote speaker, Melissa Gilbert, known for her iconic role in the classic TV series, “Little House on the Prairie,” shared, “I was very excited to hear about [the conference], and to speak [.] Whatever I can do to empower young and older women. My primary focus is bringing awareness to nurturing and empowering women over 50.” EMPOWER 2023 included a Wellness Studio that allowed conference attendees to attend yoga, Zumba, stretching, and other fitness experiences throughout the day. In addition, there was a Wellness Marketplace and a Vendor Marketplace where attendees could network or engage with vendors who were selling products or services. The conference concluded with a networking reception. On the right is Melissa Gilbert, Lunch Keynote Speaker, and on the left is Robyn Hatcher, Breakfast Keynote Speaker The 32 regional speakers included Kate Sholonski, Guzal Mustafina, Dr. Christine Kiesinger, Elizabeth Keiper, Deborah Kolsovsky, Susan Unvarsky, Jasmine Willois, Laura Ducceschi, Karolyn Demarco, Mandie Hendricks, Kimberlee Greenleaf, Megan Stone, Noelle Krempasky, Holly Pilcavage, Alex Grover, Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez, Maria Traino, Danielle Weinschenk, Kim Drumgo, Dr. Katie Leonard, Nicole Strauser, Jill Valentini, Susan Kelly, June Webre, Elizabeth Nagy, and Marlyn Kissner. While Wellness Instructors included Chelsea Manganaro, Talia Walsh, Jackie Kerekes, Edna Cementina, Christie Estadt, and Michael Normandia. Empower 2024 will be held on April 25, 2024. The featured image is the EMPOWER Lunch Sponsor, PNC Bank, local team: from the left, Jennifer Stull, Joyce Petrenchak, Lauren Allen, Angela Mariotti, Melissa Gilbert, Kathy Dunsmuir, Debbie Kolsovsky, Nicole Costanzo, Elise Hill. Check out the EMPOWER 2023 Photo Album Watch EMPOWER 2023 Keynote, Breakout, and Panel Sessions Videos About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
The Chamber Hosts International Women’s Day Luncheon Keynote address offered by Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez speaks on women’s equity in the workplace. Athena International Award presented to Laura Ducceschi. Scranton, PA —The Greater Scranton of Chamber of Commerce hosted their International Women’s Day Luncheon, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank at Marywood University. Keynote speaker Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez offered a stirring challenge to step up and lead while focusing on the international theme, Embrace Equity. The luncheon included the presentation of the ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti LLC, to Laura Ducceschi, president & CEO of The Scranton Area Community Foundation. Dr. Bonilla-Rodriguez commented, “Women’s History month is an opportunity to acknowledge the circumstances that women face in the workplace and in terms of achieving a level of economic success, educational attainment, and other opportunities to climb the leadership ladder as it relates to their livelihood.” “International Women’s Day means so much. The importance of women’s contributions all over the world, to our community right here in Scranton. In terms of the workforce, women play such a key role, and we need to be able to continue supporting women so they can overcome barriers and become what they want to be,” stated Ms. Ducceschi. The keynote speaker, Dr. Damary M. Bonilla-Rodriguez, a national leading authority on leadership development, especially as it pertains to diversity and inclusion. Dr. Bonilla-Rodriguez delivers keynote addresses from roles in the non-profit, private, and government sectors and her doctoral research. The ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored locally by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants, honors an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals, and leadership skills. “Laura Ducceschi embodies these characteristics wholeheartedly,” shares Mr. Durkin.
Lackawanna County Offers Small Business Grant Lackawanna County will be providing a $5,000 grant to small businesses. The funds can be used to pay employees, add staff, buy new equipment, pay normal expenses, and expand businesses. The purpose of the grants will help businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible businesses must: be already operating with between two and 100 employees; have faced pandemic-related hardship; comply with all applicable federal and state laws; be current in paying federal, state, and local taxes or on a payment plan; and spend all the money in the county. No one convicted of a financial crime in the last five years is eligible. The money may also be used to pay mortgages, rent, utilities, and other operating costs. Application forms and full instructions are available online at the county’s website, www.LackawannaCounty.org. Look for the Department of Planning and Economic Development on the homepage drop-down menu. The Combat Inflation Business Grant can be found at this link.
The Chamber Launches 2023 Educator in the Workplace Program Scranton, PA—Skills in Scranton, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s workforce development affiliate organization, welcomed 26 participants to the 2023 Educator in the Workplace Program. Educator in the Workplace seeks to enhance classroom instruction, student learning, and career readiness for the workplace of today and tomorrow by connecting educators and school board directors with local business and industry leaders. The 26 educators will participate in at least five one-day virtual and in-person learning sessions. What are program participants doing? Participating in and exploring career pathways in local businesses and industriesInteracting directly with business community leaders, gaining insight into the skills students need to succeed in their future careersEstablishing connections to business and industry leaders in Lackawanna County’s leading and emerging industry sectorsLearning about local businesses and employment opportunities “Educator in the Workplace seeks to align and connect business and industry leaders with local school districts, the career and technical center, and the local intermediate unit,” said Amy Luyster, Vice President. “Program participants are provided experiences interacting directly with industry and business leaders to learn about industry trends, needs, and opportunities to enhance their classroom instruction, student learning, and career readiness. This program is partly funded by the City of Scranton American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Non-Profit Covid Relief Grant and sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water and the Scranton Area Community Foundation.
2023 ATHENA Leadership Award Recipient Announced The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Laura Ducceschi, MBA, MA, CAP, CFRE, president & CEO of The Scranton Area Community Foundation, as the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. The ATHENA Award, sponsored locally by Michael A. Barbetti LLC Certified Public Accountants, honors an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in their business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals, and leadership skills. Laura Ducceschi embodies these characteristics wholeheartedly. For over 10 years, Ms. Ducceschi has made significant strides as a nonprofit leader to make lasting and meaningful changes in the region. Since being named president and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, the organization has witnessed exponential growth. Under her leadership, the Foundation has established programs like NEPA Gives, The Center for Community Leadership, NEPA Moves, Women in Philanthropy, and the NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative. Ms. Ducceschi is actively involved with numerous communities. Currently, she serves on the Geisinger Advisory Board, the University of Scranton Advisory Board, NEPA Grant Makers Steering Committee, the Lackawanna County Women’s Commission, The Chamber’s Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises (LIFE) Board of Trustees, and is a Board Governor for the Indraloka Animal Sanctuary. In addition, she serves as a mentor for the Kirby Center for Entrepreneurship, is a Schwartz Mack Foundation trustee, and participates with the Funder’s Network racial equity group. “Ms. Ducceschi is no doubt making positive and inspiring advances in the local nonprofit sector by implementing projects and programs that support our community,” says Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “We commend her for the work she has done so far and congratulate her as the 2023 recipient of this prestigious award.” The ATHENA Award will be presented to Ms.Ducceschi at The Chamber’s International Women’s Day Luncheon on March 8, held at Marywood University, and is sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ScrantonChamber.com. The ATHENA Award was first presented in 1982 in Lansing, Michigan, and has grown to include presentations to more than 5,000 individuals in hundreds of cities in the United States as well as in Canada, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom. The award takes the form of a hand-cast bronze sculpture symbolizing the strength, courage, and wisdom of the recipient. The ATHENA Award® Program is nationally underwritten by General Motors and National City Bank. ATTACHED PHOTO (in order of appearance starting on the left): Kristine Augustine, vice president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Bob Durkin, president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Laura Ducceschi, president & CEO, The Scranton Area Foundation and 2023 ATHENA Award recipient; Donna Barbetti; Mari Potis, director of membership and events, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by providing programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
National Civics Bee Invites Middle School Students to Enter Essay Topic Identify a problem facing your community. How might a citizen solve the problem? Write a 500-word essay, two pages, double-spaced, that includes the following: What is the problem, and how do different members in your community or neighborhood view it?What civic principles or systems could help to address the problem?What is your idea or recommendation for solving the problem?What primary sources, such as the Declaration of Independence or the United States Constitution, provide supporting evidence or examples for your idea or recommendation?How might members of your community or neighborhood bring your idea or recommendation to life? Judging Criteria Your essay will be evaluated based on how well you: • Demonstrate an understanding of civics.• Acknowledge and address opposing points of view.• Acknowledge and address at least one Founding Principle and one Civic Virtue.• Use primary sources, like newspapers, data, historical documents, images, or other documents that relate to your idea.• Clearly describe an idea innovative or new to you. Local Prizes First Place: $500 cash prize Second Place: $250 cash prize Third Place: $125 cash prize State Prizes First Place: $1,000 cash prize Second Place: $500 cash prize Third Place: $250 cash prize Each finalist receives a certificate. About the Bee The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in the local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. Then, the top 3 students from each local competition will advance to the state competition
