Two Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Alumni Awarded Prestigious America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarships The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Lackawanna proudly announce that two former students of the Leadership Lackawanna’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) program have been awarded $10,000 scholarships through the America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program. Ava Wisnosky, a senior at Tunkhannock Area High School, and Anthony Betti, a senior at Mid Valley Secondary Center, were selected among just 25 students statewide to receive the prestigious scholarship. The recipients were recognized during a special luncheon in April at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg hosted by Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and America250PA. The America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholarship Program honors Pennsylvania students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and understanding of civic values. More than 1,800 students representing all 67 Pennsylvania counties applied for the scholarship. Each recipient received a $10,000 award to support their pursuit of higher education. Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, a program of Leadership Lackawanna, engages high school juniors throughout northeastern Pennsylvania in leadership development, community awareness, civic engagement, and professional growth opportunities designed to prepare them to become the next generation of leaders. “We are incredibly proud of Ava and Anthony for receiving this prestigious scholarship,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “To be selected among more than 1,800 applicants from across all Pennsylvania counties is an extraordinary accomplishment and a reflection of their leadership, character, and commitment to making a difference. Watching these former Tomorrow’s Leaders Today students achieve such a significant honor reinforces the importance of investing in our young people and providing opportunities for them to grow as leaders.” Wisnosky, who plans to attend West Chester University, reflected on the significance of receiving the scholarship. “I am truly grateful to receive the America250PA scholarship. Pennsylvania’s role at the heart of American history makes this award especially meaningful,” said Wisnosky. “This recognition motivates me to continue working hard as I pursue my education and make the most of the opportunities ahead. I also truly appreciated receiving the award from the Governor and the First Lady and meeting the other award winners at the luncheon in Harrisburg.” Betti, who will attend Penn State University, emphasized the role that leadership experiences have played in his development. “Being named an America250PA Semiquincentennial Scholar is an honor that fills me with deep gratitude,” said Betti. “The leadership opportunities I’ve had—especially through programs like Leadership Lackawanna—have shaped my commitment to service, civic responsibility, and community engagement. Receiving this distinction strengthens my dedication to leading with integrity and purpose as I begin my next chapter.” The recognition highlights the impact of Leadership Lackawanna’s investment in developing young leaders and fostering civic engagement among students throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. As the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, programs such as Tomorrow’s Leaders Today continue to inspire students to become active, engaged citizens who will help shape the future of their communities and the Commonwealth.
Celebration of Leadership Honors Exemplary Graduating Class Leadership Lackawanna will host its annual Celebration of Leadership on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center from 11:45 AM to 1:45 PM. This milestone event will honor Leadership Lackawanna’s 43-year history of developing visionary leaders, fostering excellence, and creating lasting impact throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Most importantly, the celebration will recognize and honor the graduates of the 2026 Core Program. Community members, alumni, business leaders, and supporters are invited to attend and join in the celebration. Over the past 10 months, participants in this year’s Core Program completed several community service projects benefiting nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Scranton region. Projects included bridge construction and outdoor enhancements for Countryside Conservancy, the “A Room to Grow” classroom renovation for Friendship House Autism Center, modernization efforts at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Angel Attic, and the launch of significant outdoor improvements at the Greater Scranton YMCA. In addition to celebrating the accomplishments of the graduating class, the event will feature business networking opportunities, an end-of-year program review and video presentation, basket raffles, and recognition of the many individuals and organizations that make Leadership Lackawanna’s mission possible. All are welcome to attend and celebrate another year of leadership, service, and community impact. Tickets for this event are currently on sale and can be purchased at www.LeadershipLackawanna.com Leadership Lackawanna extends thanks to the sponsors of the 2026 Core program: designBLD, Penn East Federal Credit Union, Quandel Construction, Maximus Foundation, Geisinger, Times Shamrock Communications, PNC Bank, Center City Print, Friendship House, Golden Technologies, and PPL Electric. Graduates of Leadership Lackawanna’s 2026 Core Program include: Amanda Friday – Peoples Security Bank Amanda Lyn Brown – Penn East Federal Credit Union Anthony Salva, LCSW – Integrative Mind and Body Services Brittani Pulse – Nunzi’s Advertising Christopher M. Pahoski – Benco Dental Courtney Rittenhouse – Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Daneece A. Jones – Greater Scranton YMCA Deanna Smith – AAA North Penn Diana Latsko – Maximus Federal Services Douglas A. Hein – Scranton Counseling Center Eric Eiden – Lackawanna College Haley Houck – Fidelity Bank Jason Carpenter – designBLD John Conte lll – The Honesdale National Bank John P Joyce – Lackawanna County Jose Santiago de los Rios – Tuxedo by Sarno Joshua Cole Howells – Allied Services Julianna Cardillo – Penn State University (Scranton) Linda Beck – United Neighborhood Centers Madison Theobald – Penn East Federal Credit Union Maria Day – Penn State University (Scranton) Mateo Arroyopabon – Procter & Gamble Matt Coolbaugh – Quandel Construction Group LLC Pete Gentile – City of Scranton Sarah Bauman – Montage Mountain Resorts Walter Kosak – Plaskolite
Leadership Lackawanna Awards Abington Heights Student with TLT’s Senior Scholarship Leadership Lackawanna, the professional development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is excited to award this year’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) Senior Scholarship to candidate Lauren Bartell. “It has been a privilege to work with Lauren Bartell during her time in the program,” states Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Watching Lauren’s personal and professional growth throughout the program has been incredibly rewarding, and she has made a lasting impression on both her peers and our organization. Lauren has demonstrated all the qualities of an outstanding leader and will no doubt accomplish great things in the next steps of her education and career.” A part of TLT’s 2025–26 class, Bartell is a dedicated learner and a worthy recipient for this award. After her upcoming graduation from Abington Heights High School, Bartell will take her talents to the University of Pittsburgh to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Tomorrows Leaders Today fosters young business professionals who are sure to become leaders of northeastern Pennsylvania. With the help and generosity of over 2,600 Leadership Lackawanna alumni, this scholarship and additional funding initiatives continue to sustain and strengthen our six programs. The Senior Scholarship is awarded annually to an alumnus of the program who showcases exemplary leadership skills to support their school and community. Leadership Lackawanna is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Its five programs enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them to better serve in our communities, workplaces, and organizations. Established in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has graduated more than 2,700 community leaders. For more information, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Two Summer Interns The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the addition of two summer interns, Katherine Barnansky and Tessa Pollack, who will support organizational initiatives through its Business and Leadership development division this summer. Katherine Barnansky Tessa Pollack Barnansky will serve as The Chamber’s business development Intern. In this role, she will assist with business outreach, workforce development initiatives, marketing projects, research, and communications efforts that support economic growth throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. She is currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management at Penn State University. Pollack will return to The Chamber for a second internship. This summer, she will support the Leadership Development division, Leadership Lackawanna, by assisting with marketing and communications initiatives, social media management, and program coordination. She previously served as a communications intern in the summer of 2025, and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing at West Virginia University. “We are thrilled to welcome Tessa back to The Chamber and Leadership Lackawanna,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Her prior experience with our organization and strong communications background make her a valuable addition to the team as we continue to grow and strengthen our programming. Additionally, we are excited to welcome Katherine to our team and look forward to the perspective and enthusiasm she will bring to our business development efforts.” For more information about The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Lackawanna, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Announces Two New Staff Members The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Emilie Gebert and Elena Kiernan to its staff team, further strengthening the organization’s workforce development and administrative operations. Emilie Gebert (on the left in the photo) joins The Chamber as workforce & leadership assistant. In this role, she supports Leadership Lackawanna, Skills in Scranton, and The Scranton Plan through administrative coordination, event support, and program operations that strengthen workforce development and community leadership across the region. Gebert brings nearly two decades of experience in customer relations, sales leadership, team development, and operational management through her career in the telecommunications industry. She earned a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University. Outside of her role at The Chamber, Gebert serves as Assistant Director of the Montage Ski Patrol, where she helps oversee volunteer coordination and guest safety operations. Elena Kiernan (on the right in the photo) joins The Chamber as a front desk receptionist, serving as the first point of contact for members, visitors, tenants, and guests while supporting daily office operations across the organization. Kiernan has more than 15 years of experience in administrative support, customer service, event coordination, and office management. Her professional background includes positions within the travel and hospitality, legal, and finance industries, where she coordinated meetings and events, managed executive schedules, and provided administrative support in fast-paced corporate environments. She earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and completed additional coursework through New York University. “The addition of Emilie and Elena further strengthens our team and enhances the support we provide to our members, programs, and regional initiatives,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to service will be valuable assets to The Chamber and the community we serve.”
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Juliette Meyers as Program and Events Coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Juliette Meyers as the new program and events coordinator for Leadership Lackawanna, the Chamber’s community leadership and professional development division. In this role, Meyers will assist in the coordination of Leadership Lackawanna’s signature programs—Tomorrow’s Leaders Today and Leadership Collegiate—as well as alumni engagement initiatives, fundraising efforts, and community events. She will also collaborate with regional partners and program participants to support Leadership Lackawanna’s mission of developing informed, committed, and engaged leaders throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We are delighted to welcome Juliette to our team,” said Nicole Morristell, Executive Director of Leadership Lackawanna. “Her unique background in art therapy, education, and program management brings a creative and compassionate approach to this position. Juliette’s experience working with diverse groups—and her passion for today’s youth—will allow her to thrive as our new Program and Events Coordinator.” Meyers expressed her enthusiasm for joining The Chamber, saying, “I’m honored to become part of an organization so deeply committed to leadership development and community impact. I look forward to helping cultivate experiences that inspire collaboration, creativity, and service across our region.” Prior to joining The Chamber, Meyers worked as manager of Art Therapy Integration Services at The Wright Center, where she implemented innovative art therapy programs across clinical settings. Her background also includes roles as art coordinator at Winfield Children’s House in Maine and transition coordinator at The Opportunity Alliance, where she supported young adults in a transitional housing setting develop life skills. Meyers earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Marywood University.
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.
Leadership Lackawanna Announces 2025–26 Core Program Class Leadership Lackawanna, the region’s premier community leadership and professional development organization, proudly announces the members of its 2025–26 Core Program class. For over 40 years, Leadership Lackawanna has been cultivating dedicated, informed, and engaged leaders committed to improving the quality of life and future of northeastern Pennsylvania. The Core Program, Leadership Lackawanna’s flagship initiative, provides participants with an immersive experience designed to enhance personal leadership skills, expand professional networks, and deepen understanding of the issues, opportunities, and challenges facing Lackawanna County. Through interactive sessions, site visits, and community-focused projects, participants gain firsthand experience of how collaborative leadership works. “I’m so excited to kick off this year’s Core Program with such a passionate and talented group of professionals,” said Nikki Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna. “The class is eager to learn, ready to lead, and truly committed to making a difference in our community. It’s going to be an incredible year!” This year’s class represents a wide range of industries and backgrounds, reflecting the diversity and talent of Lackawanna County’s workforce. Over the next 10 months, participants will engage in sessions on government, economic development, healthcare, education, and more, while collaborating on a hands-on community service project that directly benefits a local nonprofit. The 2025-2026 Core Class includes: Mateo Arroyopabon, The Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company Linda Beck, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Amanda Brown, Penn East Federal Credit Union Julianna Cardillo, Penn State Scranton Jason Carpenter, designBLD John Conte III, The Honesdale National Bank Matthew Coolbaugh, Quandel Construction Group, Inc. Maria Day, Penn State Scranton Jose Santiago de los Rios, Tuxedo by Sarno Eric Eiden, Lackawanna College Amanda Friday, Peoples Security Bank & Trust Co. Peter Gentile, City of Scranton Douglas Hein, Scranton Counseling Center Haley Houck, Fidelity Bank Joshua Howells, Allied Services Daneece Jones, Greater Scranton YMCA John Joyce, Lackawanna County Walter Kosak, Plaskolite Pennsylvania Diana Latsko, Maximus Federal Services Chris Pahoski, Benco Dental Brittani Pulse, Nunzi’s Advertising, Inc. Courtney Rittenhouse, Children’s Advocacy Center of NEPA Anthony Salva, Integrative Mind and Body Services Deanna Smith, AAA North Penn Madison Theobald, Penn East Federal Credit Union Sarah Weisenfluh, Montage Mountain Resorts Now in its 43rd year, Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program continues its legacy of developing leaders who are not only successful in their professional lives but also deeply committed to civic engagement. Alumni of the program can be found in leadership positions across business, government, education, and nonprofit sectors throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information about Leadership Lackawanna and the Core Program, visit leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Greater Scranton Chamber Announces Two New Additions to Its Team The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the hire of Kira Loomis as business development specialist and Lindsay May as workforce and leadership assistant. Kira Loomis, business development specialist Lindsay May, leadership and workforce assistant In her new capacity, Loomis will support the Chamber’s business development divisions: The Scranton Plan and Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO). Her responsibilities encompass site selection marketing, business recruitment and expansion, and client engagement, in addition to assisting in the coordination of community-facing events aimed at fostering investment and employment opportunities in Lackawanna County. Loomis brings with her experience in marketing, communications, and community engagement. Her most recent position was as marketing and community outreach coordinator at the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC), where she managed prominent events, spearheaded workforce awareness initiatives, and oversaw marketing strategies, both digital and print. A native of Scranton, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Media and Journalism with a specialization in Public Relations from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. As Workforce and Leadership Assistant, May will provide administrative and programmatic support for two of the Chamber’s divisions: Leadership Lackawanna and Skills in Scranton—while also assisting with daily operations and office management across the organization. May brings expertise in client support, operations, and team leadership across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Her recent role was as Customer Specialist at DealerOn, where she managed high-level customer inquiries and website operations. Her previous positions at Benco Dental and Uline further demonstrate her skills in relationship management, training, and sales support. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Kutztown University. “We are enthusiastic about welcoming both Kira Loomis and Lindsay May to our team,” stated Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development. “Their impressive skills and experience, complemented by a genuine passion for our mission and the communities we serve, will undoubtedly contribute significantly to our business and workforce development initiatives.” The Chamber leadership is delighted to welcome Loomis and May and anticipates their valuable contributions toward advancing the organization’s mission to support local enterprises and fortify communities throughout the region.
Tobyhanna Employees Strengthen Service Skills through Leadership Lackawanna Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is proudly recognizing five ascending leaders who have graduated from Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program. Since its founding in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna, which is an affiliate of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, has trained more than 2,400 leaders and completed over 150 community projects. Core Program participants step up to transform public spaces and serve local nonprofit needs. The 2024–2025 class is no exception as they have delivered innovative, hands-on solutions across Lackawanna County, learning lessons they’ll apply to their positions at Tobyhanna Army Depot This year’s esteemed TYAD graduates are Management Analyst Anne Cherundolo, Electronics Mechanic Leader John Kasaczun, General Equipment Mechanic Leader Matthew Lukeski, Management Assistant Tracey Scott, and Electronics Mechanic Supervisor Jesse Tutino. Over the course of ten months, participants met monthly to dive into hands-on leadership training, learning from an array of regional experts and professionals. Beyond the classroom, they rolled up their sleeves to plan and execute community service projects—directly supporting the missions of local nonprofit organizations. Tutino said he was grateful for the opportunity TYAD provided him to develop a deeper understanding of the community he calls home. “Being a part of Leadership Lackawanna gave me the amazing opportunity to build relationships within my local community. The experience gave me an understanding of the professional network within NEPA, the good nature of local businesses, and helped me to learn and grow as a leader,” said Tutino. “I am privileged that Tobyhanna afforded me the opportunity to participate in such a great program!” The 2024-2025 Core Program participants tackled five ambitious community service projects aimed at enhancing local nonprofit spaces across Lackawanna County. From renovating the lobby of Griffin Pond Animal Shelter to upgrading the outdoor play area at United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center, each effort addressed real needs with lasting impact. Other initiatives included converting an unused backstage area at IMAGINE NEPA into a functional space for performers, restoring the deteriorating train platform at Carbondale’s historic station, and designing peaceful meditation rooms at the Scranton Counseling Center (SCC). Together, these projects reflect the program’s mission to build leadership through service and strengthen the communities of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Scott served on the SCC Team that took two empty storage rooms and created two separate therapy/mediation rooms, one for adults and one for children and teens. She said she found the experience to be rewarding and helped her meet new, like-minded passionate individuals. “My Leadership Lackawanna experience was deeply gratifying. I not only connected with 42 amazing new friends but also found a community passionately working to uplift neighborhoods, improve lives, and ensure homeless cats find loving homes,” said Scott. “Hearing that the clients of the SCC thrive in the new spaces we created made all the effort truly worthwhile.” Cherundolo and Lukeski worked on the project team supporting United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center. They helped successfully raise approximately $15,000 through monetary and in-kind donations. Cherundolo shared how the project positively impacted local youth and said the experience was deeply rewarding, noting that the team’s efforts truly paid off. “The funding allowed us to renovate the outdoor play area for the children, add new musical toys, balance toys, chalkboards, and sandboxes, along with a privacy fence to enhance safety,” said Cherundolo. “Although the project required significant time and effort, seeing the children enjoy their improved play area made it all worthwhile.” Reflecting on the experience, Lukeski emphasized the personal and professional growth he gained throughout the program. “My time in Leadership Lackawanna forced us to rely on each other and build teamwork abilities. It became critical to treat it just as my position here at work, giving it the same time and care to get the most out of it while delivering the best possible outcome,” said Lukeski. “The project was challenging but very rewarding and it connected us to the local community. The 10 months of classes gave me new skills and ideas to utilize, as well as sharpen the ones I already had which I hope improves the performance of my teams and I here at Tobyhanna.” Kasaczun echoed similar sentiments, highlighting both the professional development and sense of purpose he found through the program. “The opportunity taught me valuable leadership skills and gave me a meaningful way to give back to my community,” said Kasaczun. “Overall, it was a rewarding and memorable experience.” Kasaczun added that plans to bring the skills he honed through Leadership Lackawanna—such as empathy, compassion, mindfulness, and active listening—back to his role at TYAD. He aims to strengthen teamwork and foster a deeper sense of community within his team. Kasaczun also recognizes the value in knowing when to lead with words and when to lead by example, an approach he believes will help drive mission success. With new skills, stronger networks, and a shared sense of purpose, these five professionals are well on their way to shaping a brighter future for both TYAD and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Image Descriptions: Leadership Graduates: Tobyhanna Army Depot is proudly recognizing five ascending leaders who have graduated from Leadership Lackawanna’s Core Program. Since its founding in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has trained more than 2,400 leaders and completed over 150 community projects. Leadership Photo #1: Anne Cherundolo and Matthew Lukeski worked on the project team supporting United Neighborhood Centers’ Bellevue Child Care Center. They helped successfully raise approximately $15,000 through monetary and in-kind donations. Leadership Photo #2: Tracey Scott served on the Scranton Counseling Center Team that took two empty storage rooms and created two separate therapy/mediation rooms, one for adults and one for children and teens. Leadership Photo #3: John Kasaczun added that plans to bring the skills he honed through Leadership Lackawanna—such as empathy, compassion, mindfulness, and active listening—back to his role at Tobyhanna Army Depot. Leadership Photo #4: Jesse Tutino said he was grateful for the opportunity TYAD provided him to develop a deeper understanding of the community he calls home.
