Scranton Area Community Foundation to Host NEPA Learning Conference

The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce the return of the NEPA Learning Conference, a three-day professional development event designed to strengthen nonprofit organizations and their leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. The conference will take place September 17–19, 2025, at Fiorelli’s in Peckville.

First held in 2019, the NEPA Learning Conference returns in 2025 for its fifth gathering. Over the years, it has become a signature event for the region’s nonprofit community, bringing together staff, board members, and volunteers for a dynamic learning experience centered on leadership, collaboration, and impact. The conference features a robust lineup of national thought leaders and local changemakers offering workshops, keynote presentations, and interactive sessions tailored to the needs of the nonprofit sector.

Drawing more than 200 nonprofit professionals each year, the NEPA Learning Conference has become a highly anticipated opportunity for regional leaders to convene, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives. Attendees represent a wide range of mission areas—from human services and education to arts and environmental organizations—all united by a shared commitment to strengthening their communities.

This year’s keynote speakers offer a powerful mix of inspiration, expertise, and practical tools, each

chosen to address the real-world challenges and opportunities facing today’s nonprofit leaders:

Dr. Tiffany “Dr.T” Manuel, founder and CEO of TheCaseMade, is a national expert on systems change and narrative strategy. She’ll share how nonprofits can shift mindsets and build support through powerful, equity-centered storytelling.

Dr. Katie P. Desiderio Frino and Dr. Michael G. Frino, bestselling authors of The Beekeeper and The Stargazer, will explore how teams can unlock potential through trust, emotional intelligence, and values- driven culture to spark transformative growth.

Michael Swenson, a leadership coach and seasoned FranklinCovey facilitator, will offer insights on leading with clarity and purpose, drawing on his experience as a nonprofit executive, educator, and U.S. Army veteran.

A highlight of this year’s event is the return of the Nonprofit EXCELlence Awards, a peer-nominated program recognizing outstanding organizations, individuals, and collaborative projects that reflect the conference’s core themes of collaboration, innovation, advocacy, and inclusion. Three award categories—Nonprofit of the Year, Collaborative Project of the Year, and the Rising Star Award—honor exceptional leadership and impact across the region. Winners receive unrestricted grants and professional development opportunities, with finalists selected and celebrated by their peers at the conference.

“This conference was created to meet a need we heard again and again from nonprofit leaders— affordable, high-quality professional development grounded in the realities of our local communities,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Our goal is to help nonprofit professionals gain the tools, strategies, and connections they need to lead with confidence and make an even greater impact.”

This year’s conference will explore key themes including:

• Building trust and team culture
• Communicating with clarity and credibility
• Advancing equity and inclusion
• Strengthening fundraising and board engagement
• Embracing innovation and technology in the nonprofit space

Attendees will have opportunities to connect with peers, share ideas, and leave with practical takeaways to apply immediately within their organizations. Special bundle pricing is available to encourage participation from entire teams, and scholarships are offered to ensure access for organizations of all sizes.

The NEPA Learning Conference is an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation through its Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence. It reflects the Foundation’s deep commitment to investing in the strength, sustainability, and success of the region’s nonprofit sector.

“Strong nonprofits build strong communities,” said Ellen Burkey, Board Chair of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This conference is one of the many ways we’re working to uplift the incredible work being done by organizations throughout our region.”

Registration is now open at nepalearningconference.com. Early bird pricing is available through July 31, 2025.