Marywood University’s Accreditation Reaffirmed by Middle States Commission on Higher Education Marywood University has earned reaffirmation of its accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a significant recognition of the University’s academic excellence, institutional effectiveness, student-centered mission, and commitment to continuous improvement. The Commission’s action, taken on June 25, 2026, follows an extensive three-year institutional self-study and a comprehensive campus evaluation conducted by a peer review team from March 22–25, 2026. Following its review, the visiting team determined that Marywood meets all seven Middle States Standards for Accreditation and recognized the University for numerous accomplishments that distinguish its educational quality and institutional leadership. Throughout its report, the evaluation team praised Marywood’s deep commitment to mission integration, transparent governance, strong financial stewardship, collaborative leadership, student-centered culture, and strategic planning. The team also recognized the University’s significant progress in institutional transformation, highlighting its commitment to innovation, accountability, and long-term sustainability while remaining firmly rooted in its Catholic identity and the mission of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Among the University’s recognized accomplishments were: Meaningful innovation in mission integration, leadership development, strategic planning, and institutional effectiveness. A deeply integrated, mission-driven culture that strengthens Marywood’s identity and competitive position in higher education. Strong, independent governance and institutional leadership focused on academic quality and fiscal stewardship. A collaborative and transparent approach to shared governance and strategic decision-making. Significant progress in financial planning, accountability, and long-term institutional sustainability. A student-centered learning environment grounded in care, engagement, and holistic development. Meaningful innovation in mission integration, leadership development, strategic planning, and institutional effectiveness. “We are incredibly proud of this reaffirmation,” said President Lisa A. Lori. “Middle States accreditation represents the highest level of institutional quality assurance, and this outcome reflects the extraordinary work of our faculty, staff, students, administrators, and Board of Trustees. The evaluation team recognized not only the strength of our academic programs, but also the remarkable transformation taking place across the University and our commitment to accountability, strategic planning, innovation, student success, and our enduring Catholic mission. This reaffirmation provides a strong foundation as we continue to build the next chapter of Marywood University’s history.” The accreditation review also acknowledged Marywood’s growing culture of evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement, while recognizing major investments in student success, academic assessment, governance, financial stewardship, and strategic planning. Alongside reaffirming accreditation, MSCHE requested a supplemental information report by August 14, 2028, documenting progress on several continuous improvement initiatives, including a comprehensive, data-informed review of Marywood’s academic programs. The visiting team recommended that the University evaluate under-enrolled programs and align its academic portfolio with student demand, workforce needs, mission, and long-term institutional sustainability. This work is part of the standard expectations placed on colleges and universities nationwide, and Marywood’s ongoing program review efforts reflect the responsible, data-informed practices that accreditors and higher education leaders agree are essential for long-term institutional resilience. The University will continue building on these strengths as it advances its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, Into the Future: Defining What’s Next, and pursues new opportunities for academic innovation, global engagement, and enrollment growth, with new innovative initiatives being announced this summer. The next Middle States Self-Study evaluation visit will occur during the 2033 to 2034 academic year.
Celebrate Independence Day at the Scrantastic Spectacular & Fireworks Show Looking for a fun way to celebrate the 4th of July holiday? The Lackawanna County Courthouse is hosting the Lackawanna County Scrantastic Spectacular on July 3rd. It starts at 4:00 p.m. at the courthouse on North Washington Avenue in Scranton and is free. There will be food, games, bands, and a live performance from The Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic at 7:30 p.m. A fireworks display will follow that performance. The Scrantastic Spectacular event map has a list of the best firework viewing locations. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, Scranton Tomorrow, and the City of Scranton are sponsors of the event.
KSG Civil Structural Engineers celebrates presence in Downtown Scranton KSG Civil Structural Engineers hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new location at 318 Penn Avenue in downtown Scranton on Tuesday, June 23. Friends, community leaders, and local professionals gathered for the event. KSG is committed to building stronger communities through innovation, expertise, and engineering excellence.
Ticket deal available for Alabama concert at Montage Mountain LiveNation is offering a special discount on tickets for an upcoming concert. Be sure to take advantage of the $25 ticket deal for the Alabama show on Sunday, July 12th at The Pavilion at Montage Mountain. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are available by clicking here and entering the password: friends
Chicken BBQ Dinner to Benefit Community Intervention Center Grab dinner and support a great cause by attending a drive-thru Chicken BBQ Dinner on August 15 from 2-4 p.m. The event will be at the Waverly United Methodist Church on Church Street in Waverly. For $15 per person, you’ll get 1/2 pound of barbecue chicken, a baked potato, cole slaw, dessert and rolls. A portion of each dinner will benefit the Community Intervention Center in Scranton. Pre-orders are recommended and can be made by calling (570) 313-7719. The CIC has served the unhoused population in Lackawanna County since 1972. It is a behavioral health recovery drop-in center and homeless day shelter located on North 6th Avenue in Scranton.
Lackawanna County launches Broadband Internet Survey and Speed Test Lackawanna County is taking steps to ensure that all residents and businesses in the county can connect to high-speed and reliable internet. This initiative is part of the Lackawanna County Broadband Assessment Plan study, which is being conducted by the engineering firm HRG. The study is a multi-faceted project that will collect data and feedback over the course of several months to identify broadband service needs and focus future efforts on expanding internet service. A final study and report will outline the findings and proposed next steps with the long-term goal of ensuring reliable high-speed internet is available to everyone in the county. As part of this effort, Lackawanna County is pleased to announce the launch of the Broadband Internet Survey and Speed Test, which will be administered by HRG. Participation in the survey is crucial to gain a better understanding of the user’s experience with internet service. All residents and businesses play a key part in the survey, as the data collected helps bridge the gap in broadband coverage and informs the county of potential broadband service needs. What do residents and businesses need to do? Take the survey from your home or business using a wired or Wi-Fi connection that services your home or business. It’s important not to use your mobile phone data plan, as that will not measure your home broadband speed. At the end of the survey, a speed test will gather results on connectivity speeds. Once the speed test and survey are complete, simply click submit. Starting on Monday, April 13, the survey and speed test will be available online at https://hrggis.github.io/LackawannaBroadband/ and also on the county website at www.lackawannacounty.org Residents without internet access, or anyone unable to complete the online survey, can download a printable version from the county website or pick up a copy at their local library or municipal building. The survey will take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete and will be open through July 13, 2026. For questions or comments, or to request a hardcopy by mail or email, contact internetsurvey@lackawannacounty.org.
Enjoy New Food Features at PNC Field The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and Legends Global, the official food, beverage and merchandise partner of the RailRiders, are thrilled to unveil new food fare and beverage options slated for the 2026 season. “Part of the experience at every baseball game is what you can eat and drink, and we are excited for the menu selections Legends Global has in store this season,” said Shawn Reilly, Team President & General Manager of the RailRiders. “From the new partners to food items, beer bats and so much more, every aspect is crucial to making sure the fan experience is top-notch. Every bite should be delicious and every sip refreshing! It’s part of what will make every game even better at PNC Field.” Corona Premier Cantina The Corona Premier Cantina is a refreshing take on right field, offering Corona Premier and Modelo on draft, Draft Beer Bats and Frozen Drink Bats with two delicious flavors – Strawberry and lemonade! Jaindl Smokehouse Located in right field, Jaindl Smokehouse will feature Turkey Legs, Smoked Turkey Breast Platters, Loaded Mac & Cheese with the Turkey BBQ in an SWB Mini Helmet, Turkey BBQ Sandwiches, Brisket BBQ Sandwiches, Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches and Turkey Sticks. Sizzle City Sizzle City is a new sausage portable cart on the first base side that will offer Cheddar Jalapeno Sausage. Chorizo with Pico de Gallo. Bratwurst, Italian Sausage & Peppers, Jaindl Italian Turkey Sausage and Sahlen’s Jumbo Dogs. Electric City Stand Two great additions to the Electric City stand are set to debut in 2026 – the Sliced Pork Sandwich and the Kielbasa Cheesesteak. They are sure to delight. Revello’s Old Forge Pizza Revello’s is back, offering their 3-Cut Red, 3-Cut Red with Pepperoni, 3-Cut White and Garlic Bread. Dog Out The Dog Out hot dog portable will have its usual fare with new options. The Grand Slamma Jamma is a Sahlen’s footlong topped with pulled pork, smoky bacon jam and crispy French’s fried onions. The Neon Dog is a Sahlen’s footlong with vibrant green Chicago-style relish, tangy pickled onions and zesty banana peppers. Hard Ice Cream Hard ice cream is making a comeback to PNC Field and will be featured at our Funnel Cake portable, where it can be paired with a freshly made funnel cake! What’s better than a funnel cake and a fresh scoop of hard vanilla ice cream? Lemonade The Lemonade portable has several new offerings AND a new location in the outfield! Dirty Sodas Dirty sodas make their debut at the ballpark this season. With several ways to customize your soda, it’s sure to be a hit with all the kids! Additionally, Jaindl Turkey Burgers will be available at Boxcar Burgers and the Electric City Stand. Fans will be able to indulge with a new 170-ounce popcorn bucket. Beef Brisket Nachos have been added to the menu after the success of the Pulled Pork Nachos. Walking Tacos have been added to the Nacho stand located on the third base side as well. The Bleacher Creature got a makeover and became the Bleacher Creature Fizz. What was once a mocktail is now a fun drink for the kids and comes in a fun CHAMP-themed collectible souvenir cup with a matching straw. Our suite options have received some upgrades as well, including the ability to pre-order merchandise, Revello’s trays, and several items from the Jaindl Smokehouse, including Pulled Turkey BBQ, Turkey Burgers, Carved Turkey Breast, Turkey Sausage & Peppers and Turkey Legs. For tickets, promotional information or more details on all the new fare and their locations at PNC Field, visit www.swbrailriders.com.
“Celebrate Marywood” Event to Honor Virginia Doherty McGregor and Father Thomas M. Muldowney Marywood University will honor Virginia Doherty McGregor, Scranton, and The Reverend Thomas M. Muldowney, M.Div., D-AAETS, Moscow, at its annual signature fundraising event, Celebrate Marywood, on May 7, 2026. The festivities will take place outdoors at the Motherhouse and Seminary Morgan Memorial Garden in the heart of Marywood’s campus. Proceeds from this year’s event will fund the renovation and transformation of the Center for Natural & Health Sciences into a state-of-the-art facility supporting nursing, physician assistant, pre-med, and science programs, including upgraded laboratory spaces, enhanced classrooms, and advanced simulation environments. Marywood’s natural and health sciences students, who consistently attain outstanding licensure pass rates ranging from 98% to 100%, gain the knowledge and hands-on experience that power the region’s healthcare and STEM workforce. Virginia Doherty McGregor Virginia Doherty McGregor’s family has deep roots at Marywood University. Born the second-youngest of eleven children and a proud fourth-generation Scrantonian, her grandmother and mother were both Marywood alumnae, several of her older sisters attended Marywood Seminary, and her own children attended preschool on Marywood’s campus. A graduate of Scranton Preparatory School and the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., McGregor left her career with the Xerox Corporation to raise her family after the birth of her first child. She remained active through volunteer work, nonprofit board service, and involvement in local political campaigns. When her youngest child was in high school, McGregor began her political advocacy and fundraising efforts in earnest. She served as National Finance Chair for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign, became deeply engaged with the Democratic National Committee, and, in 2021, was appointed DNC Treasurer by President Joseph R. Biden, a role to which she was elected by DNC members in 2025. She was also appointed to the America250PA Commission by former Governor Tom Wolf, and, in 2022, was honored as a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania by Governor Josh Shapiro. McGregor, who completed the Harvard Kennedy School of Government’s Executive Education Program, has served for 14 years on the Board of Directors of Geisinger Health System, and, in 2020, became the first woman appointed to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine. She also is on the board of McGregor Industries, a union steel fabricator for the national commercial construction industry. She and her husband, Bob, will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary this year. They are the proud parents of six children and grandparents to four, with two more on the way. Father Thomas M. Muldowney Father Thomas M. Muldowney was born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, the son of late Martin and Judith Muldowney, one of three brothers, including his fraternal twin. Prior to entering the priesthood, he pursued a career in healthcare and earned a diploma in Practical Nursing from the Wilkes-Barre Area School of Practical Nursing. Licensed since 1990, he served as Class President and received the faculty’s Excellence in Clinical Nursing Award upon graduation. His nursing career included Medical-Surgical and Critical Care Nursing, with much of his work focused in cardiothoracic telemetry and cardiac intensive care. Commissioned as a Naval Officer, he graduated from the United States Navy Chaplain School and served for six years as a Chaplain in the U.S. Navy Reserves, holding the rank of Lieutenant. Since 2005, he has served as Chaplain to the Pennsylvania State Police and is also member of Lackawanna County SWAT team, where he serves as a critical incident and crisis management specialist. Father Muldowney is a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and the National Center for Crisis Management. He is board certified as a Crisis Chaplain and Trauma Expert, holds certifications in Crisis Intervention and in Emergency Crisis Response, and has been designated a Diplomate of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. He serves as an adjunct instructor at both the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and Lackawanna College Police Academy. In recognition of his service, Father Muldowney received the Chapel of the Four Chaplains, Bronze Medallion Award, the organization’s highest honor, presented to individuals who have contributed in an outstanding manner to the well-being of others, to world peace or to inter-faith and inter-ethnic understanding. Ordained a priest for the Diocese of Scranton, he has served in parish ministry and several diocesan leadership roles, including more than a decade as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. He is currently the pastor of Saint Catherine of Siena parish in Moscow. In addition to his pastoral duties, he serves on the Executive Board of Chaplains of the Pennsylvania State Police and volunteers weekly for Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore. Father Muldowney holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Scranton, a Pontifical Bachelor’s of Sacred Theology and a Master of Divinity degree from Saint Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, Md. To join Marywood University in honoring Virginia McGregor and Father Thomas Muldowney at Celebrate Marywood on May 7, or for details about event sponsorships, please visit marywood.edu/celebratemarywood, or call the University Advancement Office at (570) 348-6238.
RailRiders Add More 2026 Ticket Options The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders are pleased to add two new ticketing plans to their options at PNC Field ahead of the upcoming 2026 season. Silver Sluggers is a program tailored for individuals 55 and older, creating incredible value on Tuesdays throughout the season. The new Club Flex Plan targets an upscale experience with undated vouchers for the Geisinger Champions Club seats. Silver Sluggers will receive an outfield box ticket and parking pass for all Tuesday home games this season for only $60 per person. Additional perks include a free t-shirt and special offers throughout the season. Individuals must be 55 or older to sign up for the program, and some restrictions do apply. The Club Flex Plan features 10 undated Geisinger Champions Club level ticket vouchers, valid for any game during the 2026 season except July 4, for $400. Seating is based on availability but allows the individual full access to the climate-controlled Geisinger Champions Club and all its amenities. Both plans are available now online at swbrailriders.com. Single-game tickets for the 2026 are on sale now. For more information on all ticketing options, call (570) 969-BALL or visit swbrailriders.com.
PNC Field Slated for New Video Board and Upgrades The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and the Multi-Purpose Stadium Authority of Lackawanna County are thrilled to announce a new project at PNC Field to upgrade, update and modernize the fan experience, highlighted by a massive, 2.5-million-pixel video board and LED wall in the outfield. Diamond Baseball Holdings, which owns the RailRiders, and the Stadium Authority have contracted Visua, one of the market leaders in stadium technology, to replace the existing video board, outfield LED wall, in-park digital ribbon boards and digital ribbon boards at the entrance of PNC Field. Additionally, the sound system and production control room equipment will be upgraded throughout the process. “We’re thrilled that PNC Field will soon feature a huge, brand-new video board and LED wall in the outfield,” said Lackawanna County Commissioner Thom Welby. “This exciting addition will elevate the fan experience, bring the community together, and highlight our commitment to making RailRiders games bigger, brighter, and more unforgettable for everyone in Lackawanna County and for all who come from near and far to enjoy tomorrow’s Major League Baseball stars today at our own PNC Field.” The new video board spans nearly 3,000 square feet, 1,876 square feet larger than the existing board. The current structure will be upgraded to support the new, expanded video board, which features 2,514,816 LED pixels. The outfield wall LED is 150 feet long and takes the exact footprint of the existing LED. The two ribbon boards at the PNC Field main entrance and the two on the Geisinger Champions Club Level facade will also be upgraded with the latest technology. All speakers around PNC Field are being replaced, and additional speakers are being added to the sound system in areas that never had full sound. The new sound system will feature 25 new zones with over 250 individual speakers, allowing complete control over sound levels and content throughout the ballpark. The supporting audiovisual production equipment is also being replaced to complete this full renovation of the game day experience. Utilizing the latest technology, RailRiders’ productions will be upgraded to seven new high-definition angles, including wireless fan cameras and advanced instant replay. “These improved features will absolutely enhance what we are capable of doing at PNC Field,” stated Shawn Reilly, the RailRiders team president and general manager. “The new video board is believed to be one of the largest in Minor League Baseball. The enhancements to the production control room, ballpark sound and additional video boards will further expand our capabilities to put on the best show in the industry.” The existing technology package, including the video board, all LED and ribbon boards and sound system, was installed when PNC Field was rebuilt for the 2013 season. Some production equipment predates that rebuild. All of the systems and equipment being replaced are nearing or are at end-of-use stages, making repairs even more costly.
