SAF Selected for CFLeads’ Economic Mobility Action Network The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce it is only one of ten foundations nationwide selected by CFLeads to participate in the Economic Mobility Action Network’s advanced cohort, a network funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The Economic Mobility Action Network is made up of twenty community foundations across the nation, chosen through a competitive process, for their work to advance economic mobility in the region they serve, with a focus on equity. The Scranton Area Community Foundation will work with the Rochester Area Community Foundation, North Texas Community Foundation, Cambridge Community Foundation, Foundation For The Carolinas, ACT for Alexandria, and other leading foundations nationwide. In 2023, CFLeads was awarded a $4.8 million grant by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its economic mobility work and will support the 20 community foundations in two cohorts with capacity-building support and innovative strategies beginning in September 2024. The goal will be to further strengthen and refine the community’s economic mobility plan with a focus on equity. The cohort consists of Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO; Ellen Burkey, Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Chair; Vivian Williams, Scranton Area Community Foundation Director of Community Impact; and key partners from the City of Scranton and the Institute for Public Policy. “This incredible opportunity will provide the Scranton Area Community Foundation with a new national network, allowing it to develop additional relationships with peers who are pioneering innovative approaches to community challenges as well as with funding partners nationwide,” stated Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO. The Economic Mobility Action Network is led by CFLeads’ Economic Mobility team. More information is available on the EMAN webpage. CFLeads’ mission is to help community foundations build strong communities by advancing effective practices, sharing knowledge, and galvanizing action on critical issues of our time. “CFLeads is committed to empowering community foundations to lead change in their local place-based work. With the Economic Mobility Action Network, we’re fostering collaboration among 20 community foundations to advance equitable economic mobility. By aligning our shared focus on racial equity with a community leadership lens, we’re driving systemic change that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities,” stated Mary L. Thomas, CFLeads’ President & CEO. “I am thrilled to announce the selection of an outstanding group of community foundations to join our Economic Mobility Action Network. The competitive process highlighted the incredible commitment and innovative approaches of applicants across the country. In making our selections, we considered not only the strength of each application but also the scope, geographic diversity, institutional alignment, and deep community engagement demonstrated by these foundations. We are confident that this cohort will drive meaningful change and advance economic mobility in their communities,” stated Dr. Leonard Brock Vice President for Learning and Impact (Issues) at CFLeads. To learn more about the Scranton Area Community Foundation, visit safdn.org or contact Mary Joyce, Communications Manager at the Scranton Area Community Foundation at 570-347-6203.
The Honesdale National Bank Honors 21 Employees The Honesdale National Bank has had the great fortune of having loyal and long-tenured employees to help serve its customers and greater communities. The Bank is pleased to recognize 21 employees who celebrated milestones of service in 2024. Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President & CEO of HNB, remarked, “The lasting success of our company highlights the devotion and steadfast commitment of our long-term employees, who have consistently driven our accomplishments over the years.” He added, “Their dedication and skill are key to our ongoing success every single day.” 5 Years of Service (Standing Left to Right): Jessica Meoni, Web & Graphic Designer, Corporate Center; Kai Klinger-Hiller, Data Processing Clerk, Corporate Center; Marc Sturdevant, Application Analyst, Data Processing/IT, Corporate Center; Burt Chapman, Associate Financial Consultant, Corporate Center; Michelle Kowalewski, Commercial Loan Officer II, Hallstead Office; (Seated Left to Right): Pamela Kocher, Teller, Main Street Office; Rachel Jacobino, Commercial Loan Portfolio Manager, Corporate Center; Megan Patten, CSR, Main Street Office. 10 Years of Service (Standing Left to Right): Emily M. Zielinski, BSA Assistant, Corporate Center; Alfred Beck, Director of Honat Bancorp, Inc., Corporate Center; Alyssa Herzog, Mortgage Advisor, Main Street Office. 15 Years of Service (Standing Left to Right): Amy Gregory, Mortgage Underwriter, HNB Mortgage Center; Brian Wilken, VP, Business Development & Relationship Manager, Corporate Center. 20 Years of Service (Standing Left to Right): Kate Bryant, EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Center; Laurie Harrington, VP, Commercial Loan Officer, Corporate Center. 25 Years of Service Elizabeth Hazen, AVP, Loan Review Officer, Corporate Center HNB extends its appreciation to all its employees for their dedication to supporting its customers and local community!
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Joseph Sweeney Joseph Sweeney Promoted to Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Joseph Sweeney has been promoted to Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst. Joseph Sweeney, Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Joe’s promotion underscores the impressive contributions he has made during his time with us, showcasing his strong commitment and exceptional performance.” He continued, “His expertise will play a key role in enhancing our credit analysis processes and supporting our strategic objectives as we move forward.” As Assistant VP, Senior Credit Analyst, Sweeney will be responsible for providing financial analysis relating to commercial lending, to determine credit worthiness. He is a graduate of Valley View High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from Pennsylvania State University. Currently residing in Jessup, PA, he started his 32-year career in the financial industry as an Accountant and Financial Analyst for a manufacturing company. In commenting on his new role at the bank, Sweeney noted, “I am grateful for the opportunities that HNB has provided me. This organization cares about its employees and the customers they serve. I am proud to be a part of that.” Outside of the Bank, Sweeney enjoys spending time with his family and friends. Additionally, he is part of the Pennsylvania state Alumni Association.
The University of Scranton Hosts Election Panel Discussion University students posed thought provoking questions on the upcoming to panelists at the Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN) panel discussion. University of Scranton students from the International Relations course taught by Gretchen Van Dyke, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, posed thought-provoking questions on the upcoming presidential election to panelists at an event hosted by Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN) on campus. The panel discussion will air on PCN stations across the commonwealth on Monday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. It will also be posted to their website. Participating in the panel discussion at the University, were, from left: Francine Schertzer, senior vice president and chief content officer for PCN-TV, moderator; and panelists Jean Wahl Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science at the University; Borys Krawczeniuk, a reporter with WVIA; Brit Crampsie, principal for Brit Crampsie Communications; and Christopher Nicholas, principal for Eagle Consulting. The discussion will air on PCN stations on Monday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m., and will air on PCN stations on Monday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m., and will also be posted to their website. Scranton was one of just four colleges from across Pennsylvania selected to participate in PCN’s panel discussions about the election. The college panel discussions from the other schools will air at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 17-19. Panelists participating in Scranton’s discussion were: Jean Wahl Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science at the University; Borys Krawczeniuk, a reporter with WVIA; Brit Crampsie, principal for Brit Crampsie Communications; and Christopher Nicholas, principal for Eagle Consulting. Francine Schertzer, senior vice president and chief content officer for PCN-TV, was the moderator.
The Wright Center Receives Donation from UNICO UNICO supports The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement’s mission. The UNICO National Scranton Chapter recently donated $200 to The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement’s (TWCPCE) food pantry program. It’s the fifth year UNICO has donated to TWCPCE, which helps many of the most under-resourced individuals and families in Northeast Pennsylvania, including those experiencing food insecurity, homelessness, social isolation, poverty, or other hardships. Participating in the presentation at The Wright Center for Community Health’s primary care community health center in Jermyn, from left, are Kara Seitzinger, The Wright Center’s executive director of public affairs and advisor liaison to the president/CEO; Amy Yando, president of UNICO Ladies Auxiliary; Mary Mararra, co-chair of TWCPCE; and Helayna Szescila, The Wright Center’s deputy chief governance officer.
The Honesdale National Bank Adds New VP Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Brandon Brown has joined HNB as VP, Commercial Lender. Brandon Brown, VP, Commercial Lender In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “Brandon’s extensive experience and dedication to fostering strong client relationships align perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional financial services” He continued, “We are confident that his leadership will drive growth, further solidifying our presence in the community.” Brown is a graduate of Lake Lehman High School and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Lock Haven University. Currently residing in Wilkes Barre, PA, he started his 11-year career in the financial industry at a local financial institution as a universal banker and progressively advanced to his current role. He has consistently engaged directly with business clients, demonstrating a keen interest in the dynamic nature of business operations and the continuous evolution of enterprises. In this role, he is responsible for addressing the lending needs of businesses and investors daily. This includes engaging with clients and key influencers to review and discuss the various lending options that HNB provides for their business or client requirements. In describing his recent move to HNB, Brown said, “After the first week with HNB, I have found the experience to be exceptional. The team has been notably welcoming and accommodating, creating a positive and supportive environment. I look forward to the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead.” In his free time, he is actively engaged in his son’s extracurricular activities, particularly soccer. He is currently serving as a coach for the Hanover Area Youth Soccer program. Additionally, he dedicates himself to cultivating Chestnut trees. Each year, he grows approximately 1,500 trees, which are distributed to clients across the Eastern United States.
Northeast Regional Cancer Institute Raises Funds at Spirit of Hope Event The Spirit of Hope Celebration Board of Ambassadors and Associate Board of Ambassadors presented the Cancer Institute with a $56,000 check from their 2023 Spirit of Hope event. “On behalf of the Ambassadors who truly exhibit the ‘Spirit of Hope’ we are thrilled to present you with these funds to help individuals receive early detection and free screenings,” said Leo Vergnetti, Chairman of the Board of Ambassadors. The Board of Ambassadors, a group of community volunteers, hosted the ninth annual Spirit of Hope Celebration in November 2023 at Mohegan Sun Pocono. More than 300 people were in attendance. The event featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music and a silent auction. Christopher A. Peters, M.D. was the Tribute to Courage Honoree. Proceeds from the event benefited the Cancer Institute’s Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program. This program helps low income and un/underinsured individuals in northeast Pennsylvania get their recommended colorectal, breast, cervical, and lung cancer screenings. The 2024 Spirit of Hope Celebration will take place on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Mohegan Pennsylvania. More details can be found at www.spiritofhopecelebration.org
Noble Biomaterials Won Two Awards in Excellence Noble Biomaterials has won two awards in the 2024 Just Style Excellence Awards, in the Innovation and Product Launches categories, for its unwavering commitment to advancing the apparel and textile industry with groundbreaking products such as Ionic+® Botanical and Ionic+® Pro. The Ionic+® Botanical technology won the Innovation award for creating a new category of plant-based performance materials that are both sustainable and compliant with rigorous safety standards, while the Ionic+® Pro garnered the Product Launches award for its advanced silver-infused textile technology, offering unmatched durability and antimicrobial properties, backed by a strong commitment to environmental and consumer safety. The Just Style Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the apparel and textile industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry. Ionic+® Botanical: Innovative performance materials with plant-based technology Ionic+® Botanical is a new category of textiles that harnesses the power of citric acid, a key ingredient in food preservatives, for antimicrobial and anti-odor functions. The innovative approach replaces conventional metal-based antimicrobial topical solutions, which often wash out over time, with a durable, plant-based alternative. The use of citric acid ensures that the antimicrobial properties are safe and effective. Adding Ionic+® technology during the fabric finishing stage reduces the buildup of odor-causing bacteria on garments during use. Articles treated with Ionic+® require less care and maintenance during their lifecycle, so fabrics last longer while using less water and energy in laundering. This allows end user benefits of wearing more and washing less. Furthermore, the technology’s durability, which lasts up to 50 washes, ensures that the antimicrobial properties remain effective throughout the life of the textile, providing long-term value and performance. A core tenant to Ionic+ technology is compliance for registration and certifications globally. Ionic+ solutions are registered with the EPA. This allows customers to claim odor resistance and antimicrobial benefits in the US and around the world. The Ionic+ product line continues certifications with Oeko-Tex, ZDHC, and bluesign. Ionic+® Pro: Advancing yarn performance to beyond market standards Ionic+® Pro is a testament to Noble Biomaterials’ commitment to innovation in professional-grade performance materials. By advancing the use of silver in textiles, Ionic+® Pro offers a solution that caters to the most demanding applications, including those required by professional athletes and industrial settings. The technology’s ability to withstand up to 100 washes and industrial launderings without losing its antimicrobial and odor control properties is a remarkable achievement that sets a new benchmark for durability in the textile industry. The primary mechanism of action behind Ionic+ Pro technology is the release of silver ions from the yarn. The release of positively charged ions in the presence of moisture (such as moisture vapor naturally emitted by the skin) combats negatively charged ions. This action helps inhibit and eliminate microbes on the surface of the fabric. Ionic+® Pro’s rapid microbial removal rate is particularly impressive, with tests showing 99.9% effectiveness in over 100 washes. This quick action is crucial in environments where odor control is paramount, such as healthcare settings and athletic facilities. The integration of technology directly into the yarn also allows for versatile design possibilities, enabling the creation of textiles that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The technology’s inherent versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from sportswear to healthcare textiles, offering a permanent solution to microbial and odor control. This versatility is a significant advantage for manufacturers looking to incorporate antimicrobial properties into their products without compromising on design or functionality. “We couldn’t be more excited about the recognition from Just Style regarding our Ionic+® product. Our team worked incredibly hard over the past two years building breakthrough products. Not only did our team develop Ionic+® to be a stand-out performer, but they did it with intent considering market pricing, regulation, and a planet-positive mindset. We’ve had a tremendous response from the marketplace for Ionic+®, and this is great recognition for our entire team that works to build better products.” – Allon Cohne, Senior Vice President Ionic+® and Chief Marketing Officer at Noble Biomaterials.
Mohegan Pennsylvania Donates $10,000 to Local Nonprofit On Thursday, September 12th, Mohegan Pennsylvania (MPA) presented a $10,000 donation check to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, a no-kill animal shelter based in Dallas, PA. The organization often takes in animals that are sick, injured or surrendered by their owners. This check presentation took place right before Back in Black, a tribute to AC/DC, rocked the stage at Party on the Patio. “At Mohegan Pennsylvania, we’re always dedicated to finding ways to give back to the community,” said David Parfrey, vice president of marketing at Mohegan Pennsylvania. “We’re honored to provide this donation to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, and we’re also thankful to the guests who donated to this important cause.” “Blue Chip would like to thank Mohegan Pennsylvania for this amazing donation to the shelter,” said Cordie Braun, fundraising director at Blue Chip Animal Farm Refuge. “There aren’t enough words to express how much this will help with the medical care of the animals!” Medical bills for Blue Chip Animal Refuge can reach up to $350,000 – $450,000 a year. The donation check that was presented to the organization derived from $5,000 in slot voucher and cash donations from guests and a matched donation from MPA. This is the third year of the donation program at MPA, with prior donations going to St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen in Wilkes-Barre, PA and Ronald McDonald House of Scranton, PA.
Johnson College Reports a 32% Enrollment Increase Johnson College Sees 32% Enrollment Increase Year-over-Year, Sixth Consecutive Year of Record Enrollment to Address Industry’s Demand for Skilled Workforce Johnson College proudly announces a remarkable milestone as it experiences its sixth consecutive year of record enrollment, with overall student numbers surging by an impressive 32% year over year. This unprecedented growth underscores the increasing interest and value in the College’s hands-on, industry-immersed, career-focused education across all its 18 programs. “A sixth consecutive year of record enrollment is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, the quality of our programs, and the increasing recognition of the value of a Johnson College hands-on, technical education.” Said Bill Burke, Vice President of Enrollment and Student Affairs at Johnson College, “The College’s growth at both of its campuses is not only a sign of its success but also a promising indicator of the future of technical education and its role in shaping our future skilled workforce” Johnson College offers a range of programs designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s industries. With state-of-the-art classrooms and labs and strong industry partnerships, students have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for real-world experience. The College’s focus on technical education ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying their skills to help build strong regional and national industries. “We’re excited to welcome such a diverse and talented group of students into all our programs,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College. “As industry demands continue to evolve, Johnson College will continue to answer the call for our highly skilled technicians and technologists. With the growth of high-demand technical careers showing no signs of slowing, we will continue to work with our employer partners to ensure our students are equipped for career success and ready to meet the future head-on.” The College’s commitment to its students and industry partners is evident in these exceptional enrollment increases. Programs are preparing students for industries experiencing faster-than-average national 10-year growth trends, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Notably, these include Veterinary Nursing (21% increase), Medical Equipment Repair (13% increase), and HVAC and Electrical Construction (6% increase) industries. Some Johnson College enrollment highlights include: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology: Enrollment has risen by 10% from the previous year, reflecting the growing need for skilled professionals in this essential field. Electrical Construction Technology: This program has seen a 35% increase, highlighting the burgeoning demand for highly trained residential and commercial electricians, and industrial engineering technicians. Architectural Drafting and Design Technology: Enrollment has surged by 57%, marking one of the most significant growth areas, driven by the expanding architectural and design industry. Aviation Technology: In its second year, this program has experienced a 32% increase in enrollment, demonstrating the clear demand for well-trained aviation technicians in an industry facing a shrinking workforce. Biomedical Equipment Technology: The 43% rise in enrollment, reflects the heightened interest in the Healthcare Technology Management industry. Electronic Engineering Technology: This program’s 17% growth demonstrates ongoing enthusiasm for careers in electronic instrumentation and related fields. Veterinary Nursing: A 56% increase in enrollment highlights the growing passion for animal care and veterinary sciences. Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology: Enrollment has risen by 28%, signaling continued robust interest in skilled trades and manufacturing. Additionally, Johnson College has seen a notable increase year-to-year in enrollment from various age groups: Directly from high school: 11% Ages 19-21: 35% Ages 22+: 23% Ages 25+: 13% Johnson College is excited to welcome a diverse group of students this academic year and looks forward to continuing its commitment to being the leader in hands-on, industry-focused education in northeastern Pennsylvania.
