Misericordia Announces Todd Sloan as Vice President of University Advancement Misericordia University recently appointed Todd Sloan as the university’s new Vice President of University Advancement. “Thanks to the dedication of our faculty and staff to our mission and Mercy Thrives strategic plan, Misericordia University enjoys significant positive momentum, as evidenced by the deep pool of talented candidates interested in the Vice President of University Advancement position,” said Daniel J. Myers, Ph.D., president. “My thanks to the entire campus community, and especially the search committee, for participating in this process. I am confident that Todd will help lead the university through our ambitious fundraising campaign and build on the work already done to position MU as a key giving priority for donors. It is a pleasure to welcome him home to NEPA.” Sloan is a fundraising and communications professional with over thirty years of experience in non-profit and educational institutions where he has overseen major and planned giving activities, alumni relations programming, corporate relations and communications. Throughout his career, Sloan has worked closely with university presidents, volunteer boards, deans and other leadership in designing and executing fundraising strategies including the planning process for multiple comprehensive campaigns. Most recently, Sloan has served of counsel as Vice President for Client Partnerships with The Angeletti Group, a national fundraising consulting firm which provides campaign and fundraising strategies to nonprofit organizations. Sloan’s extensive experience includes the Pennsylvania State University at University Park where he served as Senior Director of Development and Alumni relations for the Smeal College of Business and then in a central role as Executive Director for Schools & Units during which he provided oversight for the directors of development of ten college and academic units. Sloan’s other senior leadership roles include serving as Assistant Vice President at American University in Washington DC as well as serving as Vice President of Development & Alumni Relations at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. Sloan has deep roots in Northeastern Pennsylvania, having held positions earlier in his career at Keystone College, MMI Preparatory School, and the United Way of Wyoming Valley. Sloan earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from The Pennsylvania State University.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Achieves Corrosion Control Accreditation Painter Ashley Lancia (far right), along with Thomas Petroski, meet with Kemper during the audit. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Tobyhanna Army Depot is the first government organization to earn accreditation through the Association for Material Protection and Performance (AMPP), affirming the organization’s position as the leading provider of readiness for the U.S. Armed Forces. After a comprehensive audit from Jul. 9-10, Tobyhanna obtained AMPP’s QP1 accreditation, which certifies excellence in steel work and field coating applications; the QP3 accreditation, which certifies excellence in shop coating applications; and the AS3-ITO accreditation, which certifies excellence in training courses and facilities. Only 500 companies worldwide maintain AMPP certifications. Kris Kemper and Michael Damiano from AMPP conducted the audit on their first visit to Tobyhanna. The duo praised Tobyhanna’s facilities and workforce. “I have been to many other military bases and Tobyhanna is the best,” said Kemper. “From your exceptional processes to the cleanliness of the facility, Tobyhanna’s workforce truly cares about their mission – and it shows.” Kemper serves as a technical services consultant for AMPP, while Damiano serves as a program director. Tobyhanna pursued AMPP accreditation to enhance its abilities to protect military weapons systems from deterioration, according to Fabrication & Component Refinishing Division Chief Thomas Petroski. “The DOD spends countless dollars every year combating corrosion, something that compromises the safety and readiness of our warfighters. By gaining this accreditation, Tobyhanna is meeting a critical need for our military,” he said. During the audit, AMPP officials identified several best practices across the installation – such as the innovative and intentional employee training programs, specifically within the corrosion control and refinishing realms. Since 2008, Tobyhanna has used the virtual reality Spray Technique Analysis and Research for Defense (STAR4D) system to provide hands-on, immersive training for refinishing artisans. The depot also provides dozens of other trainings related to surface preparation and coating application from both in-house instructors and industry experts. Resource Management Directorate officials say Tobyhanna spends upwards of $6M per year on workforce development. Damiano and Kemper applauded Tobyhanna’s holistic approach to workforce development. “Tobyhanna’s training programs are phenomenal and are well above what is available in private industry,” they said. Depot leaders attribute the accomplishments to the dedication of the depot workforce. “The AMPP accreditations are a reflection of the expertise of our workforce and their passion for providing American warriors with the very best support,” said Depot Commander Col. Benjamin L. Kilgore. “Becoming the first in the DOD to achieve this goal didn’t happen by accident – and this success proves that no one does it better than Team Tobyhanna.” Christopher Musso, Tobyhanna’s Director of Quality, agreed. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the unparalleled dedication of every member of Team Tobyhanna. To be the first government organization to earn this level of recognition speaks volumes about our proactive approach to protecting and sustaining military assets and, ultimately, safeguarding our warfighters.” AMPP’s Kris Kemper (right) reviews documentation with Training Specialist Carmelo Rivera. Tobyhanna’s comprehensive training programs were lauded by AMPP during the accreditation audit. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Michael Damiano (right) from AMPP reviews visual management boards in Tobyhanna’s mission work areas. Thomas Petroski and Quality Assurance Specialist William Stevens (left) were also present. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski)
Fidelity Bank Appoints Michael Jones to Retail Branch Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President & Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, announced Michael Jones has been hired as Assistant Vice President, Retail Branch Manager at the Fidelity Bank Mountain Top branch. Jones, a dedicated banker with years of experience, will lead community outreach and team-building efforts at Fidelity Bank, while overseeing day-to-day branch operations, providing exceptional service for clients across the region. Prior to joining Fidelity Bank, Jones served as a Regional Banking Officer and Personal Banker, honing his skills in client advisory roles. Jones will demonstrate strong leadership skills and knowledge of community banking in his new role as Retail Branch Manager at the Mountain Top branch. In making the announcement, Santaniello stated, “We’re thrilled to welcome Michael as our new branch manager. His leadership, community spirit, and enthusiasm aligns perfectly with our values, and we’re confident he will make a lasting impact on both our Mountain Top branch and our clients.” A resident of Drums, PA, Jones is a Pennsylvania State Commissioned Notary. He and his husband proudly welcomed their first daughter Ina earlier this year. His family also includes two beloved dogs, Minnie and Lilo, named after Disney characters, reflecting Michael’s enthusiasm for all things Disney. “Moving from a large bank mindset to a smaller community-focused approach has been invigorating,” said Jones. He continued, “Here at Fidelity Bank, I feel heard, and I truly see the impact we make every day in the communities we serve.” Beyond the branch, Jones is active in local organizations and community initiatives, building relationships and supporting area development.
Fidelity Bank Promotes Jesse Lick to Banking Relationship Manager Daniel J. Santaniello, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, is pleased to announce that Jesse Lick has been promoted to Associate Banking Relationship Manager at Fidelity Bank. Lick has been with Fidelity Bank for three years, developing his career as a credit analyst. He will continue his career as an Associate Business Banking Relationship Manager, working closely with clients to understand their unique needs and providing them with a personalized solution. In this role, he will be responsible for managing and growing his portfolio of business clients. It involves developing relationships, identifying financial needs, and providing tailored banking solutions including loans, merchant and treasury services, and deposits. He will work closely with service partners across the Bank to deliver exceptional service and support clients’ business growth. In reflecting on his new role, Lick stated “After years of working to understand the underwriting side of commercial lending, I am thrilled to be able to make the leap over to the relationship management side of things at Fidelity Bank.” He continued, “I am excited to learn a whole new set of skills in this role and can’t wait to see the opportunities it will bring.” A graduate of Lakeland High School, Lick earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from Penn State University in 2016. Lick started his career in banking in 2017 and worked at other local financial institutions before starting his role as Credit Analyst at Fidelity Bank in 2022. In making this announcement, Santaniello stated, “Jesse has shown dedication to evaluating risk, identifying opportunities, and supporting our clients’ financial goals.” He continued, “I am glad to have him grow his career here at Fidelity Bank and achieve new heights in his new role.” Currently residing in Blakely, PA, Lick enjoys working on cars, going to car racing events, live music, RC cars/trucks, skiing, snowboarding, exercising, cooking, and spending time with his girlfriend.
NEPIRC Announces New President/CEO Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) is under new leadership. NEPIRC’s Board of Directors recently announced the promotion of Drew Mackie to the role of President/CEO, effective July 1, 2025. Mackie will lead the organization with the mission to empower small and mid-sized manufacturers with world-class assessment, performance evaluation, training, and consultative services. The NEPIRC team provides consultative and training services to more than 1,000 firms and 44,000 manufacturing employees across an 11-county region of northeastern, northern and parts of central Pennsylvania helping them grow and thrive in a highly competitive global manufacturing economy. In a search that spanned the nation, Mackie’s appointment is a testament to his distinguished career of more than 23 years of experience in client services and small business manufacturing support. NEPIRC Board President Gregory Stanton, who led the executive search committee that vetted 44 applicants, expressed enthusiasm about Mackie’s appointment, stating, “Drew’s experience was unmatched in the search, and his deep commitment to our center’s mission resonates profoundly for our future.” Stanton said that after a thorough national search, the best candidate was in front of them at NEPIRC. He added, “We are confident that Drew’s vision, combined with the dedication of the NEPIRC staff and the support of our community of manufacturers, will lead NEPIRC to even greater heights.” Prior to his appointment to President/CEO, Mackie held the position of Executive Vice President at NEPIRC for nearly three years, and CFO, a position in which he focused on the center’s program management, staff leadership, and grant compliance, for nine years. In addition to overseeing all the center’s programmatic activities, Mackie was responsible for increasing the visibility, reach, and outcomes of the center’s mission and strategy, and supporting the manufacturers within the center’s 11-county region. Mackie said, “It is with great honor and appreciation that I accept this promotion. I have deep respect for the depth and breadth of services NEPIRC offers. I am deeply grateful for the trust the Board of Directors has placed in me, and enthusiastic about leading the center into its next chapter of growth and impact to the region.” Mackie, who is a certified public accountant, was a partner at the accounting firm Ginader Jones & Company LLP, where he focused on client support and compliance activities. He also served in the senior and staff accountant roles, illustrating his ability to adapt and advance within challenging environments. Mackie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Scranton and is a graduate of the Tab Wilkins Emerging Leaders program from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP).
Honesdale National Bank – Lemnitzer Fund Supports Graduates The Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Memorial Fund, administered by the Trust Department at The Honesdale National Bank and local Honesdale businessman, Paul Meagher, continued its support of those pursuing higher education with the awarding of scholarships to 2025 graduates with a total distribution of $35,993.78. The Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Memorial Fund was created by these prominent Honesdale residents to support designated charitable organizations within Wayne County, as well as to provide scholarships to deserving graduates of Wayne Highlands High School. Ernest was the brother of the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Honesdale resident, Lyman Lemnitzer. Jayson Reager and Jess Rylan Montgomery, both 2025 graduates of Wayne Highlands High School, were selected as this year’s recipients of the Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Scholarships. These awards recognize academic excellence and a commitment to furthering education. Jayson Reager will attend Messiah University to study Nursing. Jess Rylan Montgomery will attend Penn State University to study Business. The Honesdale National Bank Trust Department has managed the investments of the Memorial Fund since its inception in 1991. Through prudent investment of the trust assets, grants in excess of $3,169,000 have been paid to qualifying recipients to date. A total of $519,764.44 has been distributed through the Ernest and Margaret Lemnitzer Scholarships alone. For more information about the HNB Financial Group, please call 570-253-3355 or visit the HNB Corporate Center in Honesdale. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
NEPA Youth Shelter Appoints New Executive Director The NEPA Youth Shelter board of directors proudly announces the appointment of John W. Rosengrant, MPA, LCSW, CPRP, as its new executive director. This leadership transition will follow the dedicated tenure of Founder Maureen Maher-Gray, whose work has made the organization a pillar in the community. As previously announced, Maureen will retire as of June 30, 2025. With nearly 25 years of experience in the human services field, John, a licensed clinical social worker, brings a wealth of expertise, particularly in supporting transitional age youth (ages 16–21), homelessness and mental health services. For the last few years, he has served as the executive director of a small nonprofit in Scranton called Katie’s Place Clubhouse where he provided social and vocational opportunities to those living with mental illness. John’s connection to NEPA Youth Shelter’s mission runs deep – having served on the board since 2019, including roles as secretary and president, he was instrumental in the formation of the organization’s housing and mental wellness programs. John earned a bachelor of arts in psychology from Wilkes University and a master of social work and master of public administration from Marywood University. “I’m honored to continue the incredible legacy Maureen has built,” said John. “I’m eager to lead NEPA Youth Shelter into the next chapter — one focused on ensuring sustainability and deepening our impact for as many young people as possible.” In addition to maintaining the foundation already in place, John envisions growth in programs and outreach with the goal of making the organization the go-to resource for transitional age youth in the region. His leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of the community’s needs and a commitment to ensuring that every young person receives the support they deserve. “I am excited that John shares my vision for the organization,” says Maureen. ‘He will carry the heart of what we do, valuing every person who comes through our door, into his tenure.” Board President Andrew Cutillo, Esq., says, “Those of us who have served on the board with John have long been impressed by his vision, his expertise, his thoughtful leadership and his humble commitment to service. We’re excited for our amazing community of teens, volunteers, partners and supporters to get to know that same John in his new role as executive director of the NEPA Youth Shelter.”
Johnson College Launches Automotive Collision Repair Program Johnson College is launching an Automotive Collision Repair program this fall through its WAVE (Workforce Advancement & Value-Added Education) department, formerly known as Continuing Education. Developed in partnership with I-CAR, Toyota of Scranton, and Sherwin-Williams, the new program is designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the automotive collision repair industry through foundational knowledge and hands-on experience. The program includes 104 lessons and over 500 contact hours, combining flexible online coursework with in-person training at Toyota of Scranton. Students will gain essential skills in structural assessment, bodywork, welding, painting, frame straightening and refinishing. Total course cost is $5,200. “Students won’t just learn in a classroom—they’ll be working directly in a professional collision repair shop,” said Ashley Bechaver, Director of WAVE at Johnson College. “By the end of the program, graduates will be prepared to step into the workforce with industry-recognized training and job-ready skills.” Throughout the program, students will follow actual repair orders from vehicle intake through final delivery, gaining real-world experience alongside expert technicians. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped for entry-level roles in the collision repair industry, supported by strong industry connections. To be considered for admission, applicants must first be approved by Johnson College’s WAVE team. Once approved, applicants are required to submit a job application to Toyota of Scranton to begin the online training in partnership with I-CAR. Admitted students will receive paid, hands-on training in a professional collision repair shop. For more information or to apply, visit johnson.edu/collision or contact our WAVE team at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979.
Geisinger Opens New Kidney Specialty Clinic in Northeast PA With a mission to bring specialty kidney care to northeastern Pennsylvania, Geisinger has opened a brand-new kidney specialty clinic with three new physicians. Located on the second floor of 521 Mount Pleasant Drive, Geisinger Nephrology Scranton offers specialized kidney care to diagnose and treat a variety of kidney conditions. The clinic cares for conditions ranging from kidney stones to more complex kidney issues, including treatment for hypertension, acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. Three nephrologists will practice out of the new office. Mohammad Al Khateeb, M.D., and Badar U Din Shah, M.D., have begun seeing patients at the clinic. Mugda Kulkarni, M.D., recently completed her nephrology fellowship at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC) and will join the team in August. Dr. Al Khateeb graduated from Hashemite University School of Medicine in Jordan. He spent the last two years as a nephrology fellow at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, where he helped diagnose and treat acute and chronic kidney diseases and oversaw care for renal transplant patients. Dr. Shah is a graduate of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad. During his fellowship at Geisinger Medical Center, Dr. Shah conducted comprehensive assessments and helped manage patients with various kidney disorders, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances and hypertension. Dr. Kulkarni earned her medical degree from Ashwini Rural Medical College in India. She treated patients with a wide spectrum of kidney disorders during her fellowship at UCMC, was involved with numerous research projects and also headed clinical case presentations. The team at Geisinger Nephrology Scranton will provide consultations and comprehensive kidney care. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To request a consultation, call 800- 275-6401.
Kolmar Invests $60M in Lackawanna County The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its business development division and business development marketing program, the Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), and The Scranton Plan announce the expansion of Kolmar within the Scott Technology Park, Scott Township. Kolmar, a leading contract manufacturer of innovative beauty, skincare, and personal care products, is proud to announce a $60M expansion of its campus in Scott Township, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. “I am incredibly excited and proud to expand our footprint in Scott Township and take this next big step in growing our business in the United States, said Yong Chul (“Ben”) Hur, chief executive officer, Kolmar. This new facility isn’t just about growing our production capabilities—it’s about creating new opportunities, strengthening our community, and building the future of beauty manufacturing right here in northeast Pennsylvania.” President of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, Bob Durkin, added, “The continued investment by Kolmar in Scott Township and Lackawanna County represents a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment to long-term growth and innovation. As the developer of Scott Technology Park, The Chamber, through its business development division SLIBCO, is pleased to provide a setting that enables companies like Kolmar to expand, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to our regional economy.” This expansion includes 36 acres on which it has just completed the construction of a 200k sq ft building that will house its administrative offices, warehousing and state-of-the art production capabilities. This new construction lays the foundation for the Company’s ultimate goal of building a cosmetic industrial complex that will include introducing supply chain partners to northeast Pennsylvania. “Kolmar’s expansion perfectly illustrates Lackawanna County’s suitability for a wide range of industrial development,” shared Commissioner Bill Gaughan. “The county is an ideal location not just for manufacturing or logistics, but for corporate management and the entire spectrum of business operations. We thank Kolmar for its major expansion and investment, and especially for demonstrating that Lackawanna County works.” Through SLIBCO and The Scranton Plan, The Chamber is committed to attracting, sustaining, and growing businesses and the workforce in targeted industries. These industries include advanced manufacturing, food and beverage production, technology, energy, and life sciences. Kolmar has been a dedicated member of its local community since 1993. This new facility will be the second Kolmar facility within the park, creating 280 additional jobs within the Scott Technology Park. The company commemorated the expansion with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Scott Township Administrator Carl Ferraro shares, “Scott Township would like to congratulate Kolmar on completion of the first phase of their expansion. As one of the Township’s largest employers, their continued success is a benefit to all of Scott Township and its residents.”
