Johnson College Receives Grant for After School STEM Experience Program Johnson College received a $10,000 grant that will support the college’s After School STEM Experience Program, which introduces middle school students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics through engaging, project-based activities. The After School STEM Experience Program will serve 100 seventh- and eighth-grade students from economically disadvantaged and diverse backgrounds in Lackawanna County, including students from NativityMiguel School, Old Forge, Scranton South, Scranton West, Carbondale Area, Susquehanna Community and Lakeland school districts. Held three days a week for four weeks at participating schools, the program allows students to explore robotics, 3D printing, electric circuits, computer programming and computer numerical control (CNC) machining. These experiences strengthen critical-thinking and problem-solving skills while introducing students to engineering and advanced manufacturing concepts. “We’re grateful to the PPL Foundation for investing in the future of our community,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, president and CEO of Johnson College. “This grant allows us to introduce students to new ideas, technologies and career possibilities at an important stage in their education. By encouraging curiosity and building practical skills, we’re helping young people see new possibilities for their future while strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals our region depends on.” The program reflects Johnson College’s commitment to expanding educational access and preparing future generations for technical careers that support regional workforce needs. By partnering with local school districts, the college reaches students who may not otherwise have access to STEM enrichment outside the classroom. School principals and guidance counselors help identify students with an interest in these fields, ensuring the program reaches those who will benefit most. Johnson College also provides institutional support to help make the program possible.
Wayne Bank makes EITC donation to Scranton Public Library Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce that Wayne Bank has supported the Scranton Public Library through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). The Scranton Public Library accepted a donation of $3,500 from Chris Moshinskie, Scranton Office Manager, and Valerie Faves, Personal Banker at Wayne Bank. This contribution will help advance the innovative educational programs and services provided by the library. “Access to educational resources helps individuals and communities thrive,” said Mr. Donnelly. “The Scranton Public Library provides valuable programs that inspire learning, creativity, and personal growth, and we’re pleased to support those efforts through the EITC.” The Scranton Public Library enriches the community by fostering lifelong learning, encouraging curiosity, and providing educational, cultural, and recreational resources for residents throughout Lackawanna County. Through the support of organizations like Wayne Bank, the Library can continue serving as a trusted resource for education, opportunity, and community engagement. This gift was made possible because of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program offered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, acting through the Department of Community and Economic Development.
Wayne Bank makes donation to help develop local park Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce that Wayne Bank has made a donation in support of the Waymart Borough and its development of Wayside Park. With this donation, Wayne Bank helps the Waymart Borough support its project of developing Wayside Park into a centerpiece for all residents. “At Wayne Bank, we believe strong communities are built through partnerships and investments that make a lasting impact,” said Mr. Donnelly. “Wayside Park is an important gathering place for the residents of Waymart, and we’re proud to support the Borough’s vision of creating a space where families, children, and neighbors can come together for generations to come.” The goal for the project is to expand the park, providing equipment and toys for all ages. With the help of donors like Wayne Bank, the Borough plans to complete this phase in the development of Wayside Park this spring.
Big Boy No. 4014 brought estimated $16-$17 million in revenue to northeastern PA The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Steamtown National Historic Site are celebrating the tremendous success of Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 visit to Scranton, an event that captivated tens of thousands of visitors and generated an estimated $16 million to $17 million in economic impact throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. The historic locomotive’s appearance at Steamtown National Historic Site marked one of the region’s largest tourism events in recent years, drawing railroad enthusiasts, families and visitors from across the country to experience the rare opportunity to see the world’s largest operating steam locomotive. The event was part of Big Boy No. 4014’s nationwide tour commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. “The success of the Big Boy Reunion represents far more than a milestone for Steamtown National Historic Site – it demonstrates what can be achieved when a national park and its gateway community embrace a shared purpose,” said Jeremy Komasz, superintendent of Steamtown National Historic Site. “The Big Boy Reunion demonstrated that when we invest in exceptional visitor experiences through strong partnerships, everyone benefits—the National Park Service, our partners, local businesses, residents, and the gateway communities that welcome millions of visitors to America’s national parks each year.” The successful visit also highlighted northeastern Pennsylvania’s growing reputation as a destination for heritage tourism and large-scale events, creating opportunities for continued economic growth and increased visibility on a national stage.
Wayne Bank makes EITC donation to Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania Wayne Bank has made a $2,000 Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) donation to United Neighborhood Centers (UNC) of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Banking Officer and Community Office Manager Christopher Moshinskie presented the check to UNC Chief Operating Officer Terilynn Brechtel. This money from Wayne Bank will help the organization offer educational programs and services to people throughout the region. “The UNC’s mission comes down to neighbors helping neighbors, and that’s something we believe in at Wayne Bank,” said Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank. “Programs like theirs make a real difference in the lives of families across our region, and we’re glad we can support the work they’re doing every day.” Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp., Member FDIC, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.
Johnson College Raises $5,970 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania Johnson College’s Carpentry Auction that was held on-campus on April 12, 2023, raised $5,970 to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania. More than 60 items were auctioned off, including cutting boards, tables, cabinets, a bookcase, and more. All items were created by students in the Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology program. Most of the items were made from re-purposed materials. Johnson College provides real-world, hands-on learning in a supportive environment and prepares graduates to enter into or advance in their in-demand careers. Johnson College was founded in 1912 and is the region’s only technical college, offering 18 associate degrees, four academic certificates, and over 30 continuing education programs. A low student-to-instructor ratio supports an emphasis on hands-on learning. Located in Scranton on a 44-acre campus with a satellite campus serving the greater Hazleton area, the College is an accredited, private, non-profit, co-educational institution with a strong tradition of working with regional businesses and industries to ensure a skilled and qualified workforce. For additional information on Johnson College, please call 1-800-2-WE-WORK, email enroll@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu
