Leadership Lackawanna recognizes 2026 Executive Program Class The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s nonprofit leadership development division, Leadership Lackawanna, is recognizing those who participated in its 2026 Executive Program. The six-week Executive Program helps public and private sector administrators and professionals become more engaged in the community by broadening their social networks and their knowledge of the greater Scranton area. Participants meet key business and community leaders during weekly sessions and receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history, cultural affairs, civic groups, amenities and more. “It has truly been a pleasure getting to know and work alongside this incredible group,” said Nikki Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “One of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing firsthand the impact this program can have, not only on participants’ professional growth and careers, but also on their connections to our community.” The 2026 Executive Program Class is as follows: Chris Bohinski, WBRE/WYOU Amanda M. Caleb, Geisinger College of Health Sciences Marissa Calvey, Geisinger Community Medical Center Isabella Ceccoli-Capoccia, Meals on Wheels of NEPA Paul J. DePrimo, Tobyhanna Army Depot Clark R. Gartwait, Northeastern Pennsylvania Council, Scouting America Carlyle Hicks, Keystone College Alan Holbrook, Noble Biomaterials Menah Pratt, PhD, JD, Penn State Christopher Lazor, Scranton School District Meghan Moore, Big Bass Lake Community Association, Inc Alissa Phillips, Geisinger Community Medical Center Justin Shaffern, Fidelity Bank Nicole Shumosic, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Megan Stevens, National Park Service – Steamtown NHS Mary-Pat Ward, NeighborWorks NEPA
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.
Leadership Lackawanna Celebrates Graduation of 2025 Executive Program Class Leadership Lackawanna, the community leadership and professional development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, proudly announces the graduation of its Executive Program Class of 2025. The program, designed for established professionals seeking to expand their community engagement and leadership acumen, concluded after six weeks of learning, networking, and civic exploration. “Through the Executive Program, participants gain valuable insight into our region’s most pressing challenges while developing the leadership skills to make a lasting difference,” said Danielle Weinschenk, chair of the Leadership Lackawanna Board of Directors. She continues, “These graduates are now part of a network of leaders who inspire collaboration, innovation, and progress across northeastern Pennsylvania. We’re incredibly proud of their dedication and look forward to seeing the positive impact they’ll continue to have in their workplaces and in our community.” Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna, also praised the graduates’ dedication. “I wish to extend my sincerest congratulations to each participant of this year’s Executive Program,” Morristell said. “Their commitment over the past six weeks reflects true dedication to professional growth and a deep passion for becoming a more engaged and informed member of our community. I look forward to the impact these 15 individuals will continue to make in the greater Scranton area.” Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Class of 2025: Abby Allen, Stewart Leadership Dr. Angela Bassani, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Craig Brindza, Knowles Insurance Harold Cameron, HaroldSays, LLC Ashley Ceccacci, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Broderick Ross Dial, Department of the Army – Civilian Human Resources Agency – Tobyhanna Army Depot Morgan Fetsock, City of Scranton Tracy Gallagher, Tri-Star Academy William Harrington, City of Scranton Carl Jones, Noble Biomaterials Inc. Mark Kline, MTF Biologics – Pennsylvania Gregory Posly, General Dynamics Land Systems John W. Rosengrant, NEPA Youth Shelter Rebecca S. Slangan, Geisinger College of Health Sciences Kimberly Marie Tenbus, Clarks Summit State Hospital The Executive Program, one of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature offerings, is tailored to executive-level professionals who wish to strengthen their leadership skills, enhance strategic thinking, and foster meaningful community connections. Through sessions focusing on regional issues, leadership development, and networking with industry leaders, participants emerge better prepared to influence positive change throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about Leadership Lackawanna and its programs, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
2024 Graduates of Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Leadership Lackawanna is proud to announce the 2024 graduates of its Executive Program. Leadership Lackawanna’s six-week Executive Program, sponsored by Comcast Business, deeply engages high-level professionals in the greater Scranton region, broadens their social network, and increases their overall knowledge of the community. It accepts applications from professionals in an executive-level (director or higher) position with extensive industry experience and demonstrated career progression. “Our mission at Leadership Lackawanna is to enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of our participants,” said Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “I’m confident the 16 individuals in this year’s Executive Level Program gained valuable insight into our mission and that they forged lasting connections that will strengthen them, both personally and professionally. It is my sincere hope that they will take these benefits and use them to positively impact the community!” This year, participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities, and nonprofit organizations. Sessions were held one evening per week for six consecutive weeks at various locations in the greater Scranton community, including cocktails and dinner. The 2024 Executive Program graduates include: Jen Azarowicz, Plaskolite Dana Bilotta, Tobyhanna Army Depot Bonnie Carone, Geisinger Community Medical Center Nick Coleman, Geisinger Health Sarah Effertz, Blu Elefante Events Kyle Gattuso, PNC Bank Maggie Hawk, Hawk Family Foundation Doug Hein, Scranton Counseling Center Kristin Hudspeth, PeoplePro Advisors Alexandra Kusoffsky, Alleima Maggie Martinelli, Scranton Area Community Foundation Al O’Donnell, Scranton School District Adam Ropati, The Dime Bank Frank K. Sweeney, Scranton Rent All Corp Ruth Turkington, Fidelity Bank Aimee Wechsler, The Wright Center for Community Health
Leadership Lackawanna Launches Applications for 2024-25 Executive Program July 29, 2024— Leadership Lackawanna, the community leadership and professional development affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, announces applications are open for the Executive Program. The six-week Executive Program deeply engages high-level professionals in the greater Scranton area, broadens their social network, and increases their overall knowledge of the community. Participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities, and nonprofit organizations. The Executive Program accepts applications from advanced-level professionals with a tenured career path and extensive leadership experience. Applicants must live, work, or play in Lackawanna County. Sessions are held one evening per week for six consecutive weeks starting Monday, September 23. The sessions are held at various locations and include cocktails and dinner. Applications are now open and will be accepted through August 31. To learn more about the Executive and all other Leadership Lackawanna programs, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
Leadership Lackawanna Executive Program Class of 2023 Graduates Leadership Lackawanna is proud to announce the 2023 graduates of its Executive Program. Leadership Lackawanna’s six-week Executive Program deeply engages high-level professionals in the greater Scranton region, broadens their social network, and increases their overall knowledge of the community. It accepts applications from professionals in an executive-level (director or higher) position with extensive industry experience and demonstrated career progression. “Our mission at Leadership Lackawanna is to enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of our participants,” said Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “I’m confident the 14 individuals in this year’s Executive Level Program gained valuable insight into our mission and that they forged lasting connections that will strengthen them, both personally and professionally. It is my sincere hope that they will take these benefits and use them to positively impact the community!” This year, participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities, and nonprofit organizations. Sessions were held one evening per week for six consecutive weeks at various locations in the greater Scranton community, including cocktails and dinner. The 2022 Executive Program graduates include: Danielle Breslin, Moses Taylor Foundation Michelle Hamilton, The Waverly Community House Megan Walbeck, Geisinger Sarah Marie Thomas, NativityMiguel School of Scranton Tricia Zilaitis, City of Scranton Meghan Lennox Gagorik, American Heart Association Kristyn Smith, Tobyhanna Army Depot Bethany Staples, Market Share Consulting Ron Augelli, Talk Shirty to me Jason Berger Brian Ross, Tobyhanna Army Depot Neil Bresnahan, Big Bass Lake Community Association, Inc. Kyle Lennon, Schulte Hospitality Andrew Kudasik, PNC Bank
Leadership Lackawanna Applications Open for Executive Program Leadership Lackawanna, the premier community leadership and professional development affiliate of the Chamber, is now accepting applications for its Executive Program. This five-week Executive Program engages high-level professionals more deeply in the greater Scranton region, broadening their social network, and increasing their overall knowledge of the community. Participants meet key business and community leaders as they receive an overview of Lackawanna County’s history and culture, economic and political structures, community events, civic groups, recreational activities and nonprofit organizations. Sessions are held one evening per week for five consecutive weeks at various locations and include cocktails and dinner. Leadership Lackawanna’s Executive Program accepts applications from public and private sector administrators and professionals in an executive level position who live or work in Lackawanna County. Sessions start in September. To apply, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com. Applications will be accepted through September 8, 2021.
