Seven Graduates of Leadership Lackawanna Programs Now in Executive Program

Seven graduates of Leadership Lackawanna’s Core or Leadership Fundamentals 2.0 programs are continuing their professional development as participants in the nonprofit’s Executive Program, demonstrating how leadership growth can extend well beyond graduation.

Representing organizations across the region, the returning alumni are building on their earlier experiences while expanding their networks and strengthening their understanding of the greater Scranton community.

“I am excited to share that several participants in this year’s Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program are alumni of one of our other leadership programs. This is a wonderful reflection of leadership growth and advancement and is exactly what we strive to achieve as an organization,” said Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “We are proud to provide opportunities for individuals to continue building their leadership skills, expanding their networks, and deepening their connection to our community throughout their leadership journey.”

The Executive Program connects executive-level professionals with key business and community leaders through six weekly sessions at locations throughout the community. Participants explore Lackawanna County’s history, economic and political structures, cultural offerings and community resources while developing relationships that support greater community involvement.

The seven returning alumni include:

Alissa M. Phillips, Geisinger Community Medical Center Leadership Fundamentals 2.0, winter 2026 graduate

“Participating in Leadership Lackawanna 2.0 was a transformative experience that challenged me to think differently, broadened my understanding of our community, and helped me grow as a leader,” said Alissa Phillips, Winter 2026 Leadership Fundamentals 2.0 Graduate. “The relationships and lessons I gained continue to influence my work today. I am honored to continue that leadership journey through the Executive Program, and look forward to the ongoing growth that comes from engaging with such a talented and diverse group of leaders.”

Paul DePrimo, Tobyhanna Army Depot Core Program, Class of 2023

“I’m truly grateful to be part of this year’s Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program,” said Paul DePrimo, 2023 Core Program Graduate. “Since graduating from the Core Program in 2023, I’ve gained a greater appreciation for all that Lackawanna County has to offer and built meaningful connections. I’ve enjoyed learning from others’ leadership styles, communication skills, approach to project progression and dedication to excellence. I welcome challenges, connections and opportunities for growth, and Leadership Lackawanna has given me exactly that.”

Nicole Shumosic, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Core Program, Class of 2016

“When I participated in Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program in 2015–2016, my team worked on a project to build a butterfly garden for children visiting the Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA,” said Nicole Shumosic, 2016 Core Program Graduate. “I was especially excited about the project because the organization’s mission was one I had always felt strongly connected to. My role within the group focused on fundraising and public relations, so it feels especially full circle that, a decade later, I now serve as the organization’s Director of Engagement & Development, leading many of those same efforts. Beyond the professional experience, the program gave me valuable connections and friendships that I still maintain today. Returning for the Executive Program is an opportunity to continue growing as a leader, build new relationships, and further strengthen my impact in the community.”

Bella Capoccia, Meals on Wheels of NEPA Core Program, Class of 2024

“Leadership Lackawanna and The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce are integral organizations that help to create true leaders in NEPA. As someone who has participated in the CORE program, I am thrilled to participate in the Executive Leadership program,” said Bella Capoccia, 2024 Core Program Graduate. “CORE fine-tuned some of the skills I already had, while introducing me to the ones I didn’t, and I know the Executive Leadership program will do the same. These organizations and programs help shape the future of our area, and I am looking forward to seeing the good that comes from them!”

Carlyle Hicks, Keystone College Core Program, Class of 2018

“I had recently moved to NEPA in August of 2016, and I knew very little of the area,” said Carlyle Hicks, 2018 Core Program Graduate. “Participating in Leadership Lackawanna provided me a great opportunity to explore the area, experience its wide culture and grow closer to the community. Through Leadership Lackawanna, I was able to expand my leadership skills, which helped me in my role at Keystone College and allowed me to rise from a Director to Assistant Vice President. Now in this new role, I thought it was important to participate again in Leadership Lackawanna, but this time at the executive level.”

Justin Shaffern, Fidelity Bank Core Program, Class of 2014

“Twelve years ago, I joined Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program as a member of the Class of 2014. What began as an opportunity to learn more about our community quickly became one of the most impactful experiences of my professional career,” sad Justin Shaffern, 2014 Core ProgramGraduate. “As my career has progressed and I have taken on greater leadership responsibilities, I have come to appreciate even more the foundation that Leadership Lackawanna helped establish. Leadership Lackawanna has been a meaningful part of my career development, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my involvement through the Executive Program.”

Meghan Moore, Big Bass Lake Leadership Fundamentals 2.0, Class of 2026

“Participating in the Leadership 2.0 Program gave me the confidence, tools, and perspective to continue growing as a leader,” said Meghan Moore, 2006 Leadership Fundamentals 2.0 Graduate. “I’m excited to build on that foundation through the Executive Program, strengthen my connections with other community leaders, and apply what I learn to better support my organization and community.”

Leadership Lackawanna offers multiple opportunities for emerging and established leaders to develop their skills. Its 10-month Core Program combines leadership, interpersonal and managerial skill development with an exploration of regional issues and hands-on projects benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Leadership Fundamentals 2.0 provides eight weeks of online learning and interactive discussions focused on topics including communication, leadership identity, workplace differences and managing change.

The alumni’s participation reflects Leadership Lackawanna’s commitment to supporting continued growth as individuals take on new responsibilities in their workplaces and communities.