Johnson College Expands Pathway to Innovation Patio Johnson College is expanding the Pathway to Innovation patio outside Ideal Saldi Hall, adding new opportunities for supporters to leave their mark on its Scranton campus. Established during the college’s last capital campaign, this distinctive brick patio honors the people and partnerships that have helped shape Johnson College’s mission of hands-on, career-focused education. Each personalized brick represents a commitment to the belief in the transformative power of experiential learning. Johnson College invites alumni, parents, local businesses, and friends to become part of this growing legacy by purchasing engraved bricks. Brick Options:• Small Brick (4” x 8”): 3 lines, up to 18 characters per line — $250 donation• Large Brick (8” x 8”): 6 lines, up to 18 characters per line — $500 donation Funds raised through this campaign directly support the College Annual Fund, helping provide essential resources and opportunities for Johnson College students. Orders placed by December 30, 2025, will be installed in spring or summer 2026, joining bricks already in place on the patio, a space regularly enjoyed by students, faculty, and visitors. “This campaign offers a meaningful way to leave a lasting impression on our campus,” said Doug Cook, Senior Director of College Advancement. “By contributing to the Pathway to Innovation, supporters reinforce their belief in hard work, opportunity, and the future of hands-on education here in Northeastern Pennsylvania.” To participate, visit johnson.edu/bricks to download the Brick Order Form. Please mail completed forms and payments to:Johnson CollegeOffice of College Advancement3427 N Main Ave.Scranton, PA 18508 Donations are tax-deductible and acknowledged with a receipt. Donors should consult their tax advisors for specific deduction details. For questions, contact the Office of College Advancement at 570-702-8920 or collegeadvancement@johnson.edu.
Johnson College Hosts Annual Scholarship Breakfast Johnson College hosted its annual Scholarship Breakfast on October 28, 2025, at Fiorelli Family Catering in Peckville. The event recognized the scholarship recipients and honored the generous donors who made scholarships available to students. Alyssa Nicholas, Johnson College Veterinary Nursing student, spoke at the College’s Annual Scholarship Breakfast. The College awarded 74 scholarships. Alyssa Nicholas, a second-year student in Johnson College’s Veterinary Nursing program and recipient of the Anthony Ploskonka Memorial Scholarship, served as the student speaker at the event. “My scholarship is a reminder that there are people who believe in me, who see my potential and want to help me achieve my lifelong dream of working in veterinary care,” Nicholas said. She stated that the generosity of the scholarship donors and support from Johnson College allow her to better focus on her studies so that she can pursue her dream to serve the farmers in her rural hometown, offering them better access to the care they need. The event also featured keynote speaker, Fran Pantuso, benefactor of the Al Pantuso Automotive Technology Scholarship, created in honor of her father, Al Pantuso, Sr. Presenting sponsors of the event included Cardinal LG, Jam Works LLC, and SIMONA AMERICA Industries. The breakfast concluded with the scholarship awards presentation by Katie Pittelli, Ed.D., president and CEO of Johnson College, and Jeanine Engelmann, Ed.D., chief academic officer of Johnson College. The presented awards included: AAA North Penn Annual Scholarship, Christian DeOliveira; Alekna Memorial Scholarship, Kaiden Hallock, Henry Korman, Felix Peraza, and Sierra Stonier; Edgar A. and Ida M. Alekna Foundation, Jacob Davis, Daniel Marcus, Karen Martinez, and Ally Plantz; Sebastian “Sebby” Amico Memorial Scholarship, Liam Lidy; Bartolai Family Scholarship, Giulian Morell; Vince Bartolai Memorial Biomedical Equipment Technology Scholarship, Ashton Labert; John K. & Mary E. Blackledge Memorial Scholarship, Parker Azevedo and Claire Getz; Margaret Briggs Scholarship, Gianna Carlo and Andrew Williams; Sean J. Calpin Automotive Technology Scholarship (Scranton Area Foundation), Connor Griggs; Hilda Dakey and Harry Dakey Memorial Scholarship, Michelle Calderon and Jackson Lincoln; Marilyn and Ronald Davies Annual Scholarship, Eric Staskowski; Vernon “Terry” Decker Scholarship, Jericho Doll; P. Fricchione and Sons Scholarship, Christian Shields; John T. Gerod Scholarship, Andrew Baker; Dr. George J. Hallesky Memorial Scholarship (Scranton Area Foundation), Daniel Marcus; Hawk Family Foundation Scholars, Luke Hoats and Abigail Trowbridge; Thomas Hesser Scholarship, Mariah Minnelli; Frank and Jean Hubbard Scholarship, Alexandria Haduch; Jefferson Township Lions Scholarship, Cody Schoonover; Orlando S. Johnson Merit Award, Aidan Graff and Liberty Graves; Johnson College Moffat Merit Award, Brittany Bella and Keith Rowlands; Johnson College Presidential Scholarship, Charlize Barhite, Krista Dudeck, Anastasia Lehman, and Carter Mistishin; Johnson College Technology Merit Award, Samantha Warner and John Plumey; Janie Lamberton Memorial Scholarship, Liberty Graves; William Lesik Memorial Scholarship, Josiah Amoroso and EllaRose Fitzgerald; Andrew Mazza Memorial Scholarship, Christopher Rosa; F. David Mercanti Memorial Scholarship, Connor Angelo; MotorWorld Lexus Scholarship, Brendan Galimi and Mariah Minnelli; Northeast Suicide Prevention Initiative Scholarship, Edgar Acevedo; North Eastern Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association Veterinary Nursing Scholarship, Aiden Zerbe; John R. O’Hara Scholarship, Milagros Sosa; Chris Pambianco ’65 Vocational Education Award, Connor Angelo and Hanaa Gohsler; Al Pantuso Automotive Technology Scholarship, Kasandra Lopes; Thomas J. Perry Scholarship, Alessandro Olivieri; John R. and Maureen J. Pesavento Johnson College Scholarship (Scranton Area Foundation), Evan Bernardi; Anthony Ploskonka Memorial Scholarship, Andrew Eagon and Alyssa Nicholas; Irene Ploskonka Memorial Scholarship, Cole Chesna and Jayden Wasielewsk; Pocono Mountain Street Rod Association Scholarship, Cristal Abreu and James Hancock; Richmond Merit Award, Austin Fortney and Holly Scielzo; Ross Family Foundation Scholarship, Braeden Alvord and Joelvi Maties-Medina; Society of Broadcast Engineers, Chapter II Scholarship, Jericho Doll; Taylor Nursing Rehabilitation Scholarship, Alyssa Resio and Jennifer Rodriguez; Dr. Islyn Thomas Achievement Award, Cameron Hedgelon and Tyler Martinelli; Scranton UNICO Foundation Scholarship, Austin Fortney; Villa Capri Cruisers Car Club, Inc. Scholarship, Andrew Andonizio; Rich Vinansky Memorial Golf Tournament Scholarship, Anna Bagnall and Rebecca Bavitz; Ed Vogel Memorial Scholarship of the NEPA Chapter of the Antique Truck Club of America, Gerard Dolinsky.
Johnson College Scranton To Host Fall Open House Johnson College will hold its Fall Open House on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on its Scranton campus. To register to attend the Open House, visit Johnson.edu/openhouse or contact Johnson College’s Enrollment Department at 570-702-8856 or enroll@johnson.edu. The Open House will include discussions about the admissions process, information about financial aid for those who qualify, and student services such as student life, student support, and career services. Plus, same-day acceptance will be available for many programs if students bring their high school or college transcripts. Tours of each technical area will be conducted and program directors and instructors will be available to review the specifics of their programs.
Johnson College Now Enrolling for OSHA 30-Hour Training Course Johnson College is now accepting enrollments for its 30-hour, non-credit OSHA training course, which will be held at the college’s Scranton campus from Nov. 5 through Nov. 20, 2025. Classes will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:45 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Designed for individuals in leadership roles, employees in general industry, and those seeking advanced safety training, the in-person course will cover critical workplace safety topics such as fall protection, electrical safety, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Participants will learn how to reduce workplace accidents, ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, and promote a culture of safety within their organizations. Upon successful completion, participants will receive the official OSHA 30 General Industry Outreach Course Completion Card. The cost of the course is $600. To register or learn more, visit johnson.edu/continuing-ed/osha-30, email the WAVE Team at wave@johnson.edu, or call 570-702-8979.
Johnson College To Host Annual Trunk-or-Treat Johnson College invites families and community organizations to its annual Trunk-or-Treat on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the college’s Scranton campus. The event will be held outside Bingham Hall, located on the upper part of campus. Johnson College students, faculty, staff and local organizations will hand out candy from decorated trunks. In past years, the event has welcomed hundreds of families and children. This free, family-friendly event offers a safe way to celebrate Halloween. Costumes are encouraged. Parking is available via the North entrance across from Schiff’s Marketplace. Businesses, nonprofits and community groups interested in handing out candy must register in advance. All participating groups are responsible for providing their own candy and trunk decorations. Drive-up or day-of participation will not be permitted without prior approval. To reserve a spot or for more information, contact the Student Success team by Thursday, Oct. 23, at studentsuccess@johnson.edu or call 570-702-8953 or 570-702-8912.
Johnson College Receives Grant from Fastenal BK5K Johnson College received a $1,650 grant from the Fastenal BK5K Youth Fund Committee to support the College’s Girls on Fire events. Girls on Fire is a unique one-day STEM event designed for 6-9th grade students to explore career opportunities in non-traditional STEM fields. Pictured left to right: Tim Frank, Associate Director of Community Engagement, Johnson College; Marcelo DeSousa, Regional Operations Manager S-HUB, Fastenal; Whitney McDonald, S-HUB Help Desk Manager, Fastenal; Dr. Katie Pittelli, President and CEO, Johnson College; Kellyn Williams, Associate Vice President of Special Programs, Johnson College. The event is an integral part of the College’s Women in Industry Initiative and is held in conjunction with International Women’s Day. The Girls on Fire event includes tours of Johnson College’s campuses, presentations about industry experiences from women working in non-traditional STEM fields, and hands-on activities related to many of the programs offered at the College. Fastenal’s support helps Johnson College continue its mission to inspire young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM and the trades. By connecting students with real-world experiences and industry professionals, the College aims to break down barriers and empower the next generation of women in technical fields. The BK5K, a 5-kilometer road race and walk, is held to honor Bob Kierlin, founder of Fastenal Company and lifelong supporter of youth programs. All proceeds support local youth organizations/programs that demonstrate financial need, where races are held. Learn more at https://www.bk5k.com/.
Johnson College Achieves Seventh Straight Year of Record Enrollment Johnson College has reached another milestone, marking its seventh consecutive year of record enrollment. As of August 25, the first day of the 2025-26 academic year, 717 students are enrolled across both the Scranton and Hazleton campuses. This is a 6% increase over last year. This year’s incoming class includes more than 340 first-year students and nearly 90 high school students enrolled in the College’s Industry Fast Track early college program. “Our continued growth reflects the value students and families place on hands-on, technical education that leads directly to in-demand careers,” said Bill Burke, vice president of enrollment and student affairs. “They’re choosing Johnson College because they know we offer the training and experience employers are looking for.” The College’s Hazleton campus saw a 62% enrollment increase over last year. It welcomed its first HVAC class and the largest incoming classes to date in Electrical Construction Technology and Welding Technology. “We’re building strong momentum in Hazleton,” Burke added. “The demand for technical programs continues to grow, and students are responding to the opportunities available right in their communities.” Programs showing the highest year-over-year growth include Carpentry Technology (100%), Radiologic Technology (50%), and HVAC (12%). Other core programs, such as Electrical Construction Technology, also saw continued strong momentum. “These enrollment increases align with what we’re hearing from industry. Employers need skilled technicians and technologists, and our students are stepping in to fill those roles,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, president and CEO. “We’re excited to welcome this year’s class and to continue expanding access to career-focused education across northeastern Pennsylvania.”
Johnson College To Host Carpentry Workshop Johnson College is now accepting registrations for its Women at the Workbench: Carpentry Workshop, a hands-on, one-day experience designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of woodworking in a welcoming and supportive environment. The workshop will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the college’s Scranton campus. The cost is $65. Registration is available at johnson.edu/workshops. For more information, contact the college’s WAVE team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979. Participants will learn essential carpentry skills, including how to measure, cut and assemble materials, while working on their own individual projects. The workshop is ideal for beginners or anyone looking to build their confidence with tools and hands-on work. This workshop, through Johnson College WAVE’s (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) department, offers more than just technical instruction. It’s an opportunity to step up to the workbench, gain practical experience, and walk away with something you built yourself, along with the confidence to keep building. The workshop is open to participants 18 years and older. All are welcome.
Johnson College WAVE Department Announces Fall Community Workshops Johnson College’s Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education (WAVE) department is offering a series of engaging, hands-on and affordable community workshops this fall on its Scranton campus, located at 3427 N. Main Avenue. These interactive sessions are designed for learners of all ages and skill levels who want to explore new hobbies, relax, and have fun while learning something new. Pumpkin Carving Class – Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.Get into the Halloween spirit with a hands-on pumpkin carving class. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned carver, this festive workshop is perfect for all. Participants will receive step-by-step guidance; tools and pumpkins will be provided. The evening will include a brief talk on the history of the Jack-o’-Lantern. The class will take place in the cafeteria of the Moffat Student Center. Cost is $30 per person. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Children ages 10 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Space is limited. Tai Chi Workshop – Saturdays, Nov. 1, 8, 15 & 22 | 2–3 p.m.Join a four-week Tai Chi workshop led by Master Instructor Wayne Wolfe, a teacher of traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan with over 30 years of experience. Participants will learn a nine-minute motion group designed to circulate energy throughout the body in a relaxed and mindful way. The workshop, held on the Scranton campus, is suitable for all fitness levels and offers benefits for both body and mind. The cost for the full session is $50. Succulent 101 – Thursday, Nov. 13 | 5:30–7 p.m.Perfect for beginners and plant lovers alike, the Succulent 101 class offers a casual, hands-on introduction to succulent care. Participants will learn how to help their plants thrive and avoid common mistakes. Each attendee will pot their own succulent to take home. This beginner-friendly class will be held on the Scranton campus and costs $25 per person. To learn more or register for any of these workshops, visit johnson.edu/workshops. For questions, contact the WAVE Team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979.
Johnson College to Host Fall Flower Design Workshop Johnson College is now accepting registrations for its Fall Flower Design Workshop, a cozy, hands-on class where participants will create their own floral arrangement using seasonal blooms, rich colors, and natural textures. The workshop will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the college’s Scranton campus. The cost is $40. Registration is available at johnson.edu/workshops. For more information, contact the college’s WAVE team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979. This workshop is perfect for all skill levels and includes all materials, step-by-step instruction and a completed arrangement to take home and enjoy. Participants will explore the beauty of autumn through floral design, embracing creativity in a welcoming environment. The workshop is open to individuals ages 10 and up, accompanied by a guardian. No prior experience is necessary, making it ideal for anyone interested in learning the art of flower arranging in a relaxed, seasonal setting.
