Penn State Scranton To Host Fall Open House Penn State Scranton will welcome prospective students and their families to campus for its Fall Open House on Saturday, November 15, at 9:30 a.m. This event offers prospective students and their families an opportunity to explore the campus, meet faculty, staff and current students, and learn more about the more than 275 majors available through Penn State. Visitors will have the chance to connect with faculty, academic advisors and athletic coaches, learn about admissions requirements, and review important financial aid information. The day will also include guided campus tours led by current students, offering an inside look at academic and student life. As an added benefit, students who attend the open house can apply to Penn State Scranton for free! Pre-registration is required. Students under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Penn State encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in the event. Any individual requiring special accommodation needs should contact snadmissions@psu.edu or by calling 570-963-2500. Upon registration, attendees will receive follow-up information, including directions, a campus map, and additional event details. For more information or to register, visit scranton.psu.edu.
Penn State Scranton Student Wins National Contest Fourth-year corporate communication student Zamarra Vrabel has made campus history with her recent podcast project, which earned two first-place awards, including the campus’ first-ever national award, which she received from the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW) Communications Contest. Her project also garnered a first place award in the Pennsylvania Press Club’s annual contest. Penn State Scranton Corporate Communication major Zamarra Vrabel, center, poses for a photo with her first place award from National Federation of Press Women (NFPW) Communications Contest. At left is Corporate Communication Program Coordinator Kelly Conlon-Mazzucca, with Assistant Professor of Corporate Communication Stephanie Longo, at right. Vrabel’s winning podcast, titled “Culture — Little Pieces of You: A Strong Foundation and a Constant Journey,” was created as a midterm assignment for her CAS 471: Intercultural Communication course, taught by Assistant Professor of Corporate Communication Stephanie Longo. The podcast explores the role of culture in shaping identity, featuring an interview with Luz Cabrales, a local filmmaker and editor who shared insights into her Mexican American heritage. Vrabel recorded the interview via Zoom and edited the audio to enhance clarity and cohesion. She structured the podcast to highlight how culture influences various aspects of life, including family, work and community. “I structured my podcast in a way that showed how culture affects all areas of our lives, such as family, work and our place in the community,” Vrabel said. “I wanted to stress that each person defines culture based on how they allow it to shape them into who they are.” The podcast was first submitted to the Pennsylvania Press Club’s annual contest, where it won first place at the state level. That victory qualified Vrabel for the national competition hosted by the NFPW, where she again took top honors. The NFPW’s 2025 Professional Communications Contest drew nearly 2,000 entries from across the United States and even internationally, including submissions from 47 states, the District of Columbia and Spain. Winners were announced in September during the organization’s national conference in Golden, Colorado. “Finding out that my podcast gained national recognition, along with an award, made me feel very happy and accomplished,” Vrabel said. “I couldn’t have done it without Dr. Longo’s guidance and support, and Luz Cabrales (my guest on the podcast) sharing her amazing story with me and my family and friends who encouraged me to work hard on the podcast and to enter the competition.” Longo, who submitted the podcast on Vrabel’s behalf, said the assignment was designed to give students hands-on experience with emerging communication tools. “Working on this podcast taught me that listening and asking questions are two of the most important skills in becoming an effective communicator,” she said. “I will continue to remember this and practice these skills as I continue in my Corporate Communication journey.” Longo said Vrabel’s success reflects the program’s commitment to innovation and student development. Corporate Communication Program Coordinator Kelly Conlon-Mazzucca praised Vrabel’s achievement as a milestone for Penn State Scranton’s Corporate Communication department. “Winning first place at the National Federation of Press Women’s competition, which is our first national award, is a testament to her extraordinary talent, hard work and dedication,” she said. “Zamarra is not only a gifted communicator, but she is an inspiration to those around her.” “Seeing our students recognized on the state and now national level is a thrill for our Corporate Communication department,” Longo said. “Both Professor Kelly Conlon-Mazzucca and I are dedicated to providing our students with real-world, cutting-edge opportunities in the field of communication. We know that if students don’t learn up-and-coming techniques in our classes, they will be behind their peers.” She added that the department invests considerable time in researching and integrating the latest technologies to ensure students are prepared for the evolving job market.
Penn State Scranton’s Alan Peslak Honored Penn State Scranton Professor of Information Sciences and Technology Alan Peslak has been named the 2025 Computer Educator of the Year by the International Association for Computer Information Systems (IACIS). The award, the highest honor bestowed by the organization, was presented earlier this month during the IACIS annual conference in Pensacola, Florida. The Computer Educator of the Year award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional research and teaching achievements, and who have made significant contributions to the fields of information systems (IS), information technology (IT) and computer science. Recipients are selected for their national and international impact on information science education and scholarship. Peslak, who also serves as professor in charge of Penn State’s information technology degree program and as information sciences and technology discipline coordinator for the University’s 14 Commonwealth Campuses, has played a key role in advancing IT education across Penn State. He recently co-chaired a University-wide committee to design the new IT degree focusing on broad-based technology skills for entry-level professionals, particularly in small and medium-sized organizations. “I am very proud to be a part of advancing the field of Information technology in our society,” Peslak said. “Our discipline is leading the way in improving the lives of everyone by using technological resources to improve health, manufacturing, businesses, the environment and nearly every aspect of society. And the use of artificial intelligence to accelerate improvements in everyday life is nothing short of revolutionary. I am privileged to be a part of Penn State and help prepare our students to use technology to further our progress and address the major challenges we face in the world.” Peslak joined Penn State more than two decades ago after a 25-year career in the private sector, where he served as vice president of finance for Akzo Nobel. His research explores the societal and ethical implications of information technology, social media and artificial intelligence. He has authored 131 peer-reviewed publications, including 87 journal articles, with more than 2,200 citations and an i10-index of 50. His work has earned numerous honors, including the 2020 Ben Bauman Award for Excellence from IACIS and the 2012-13 Information Sciences and Technology Statewide Faculty Member of the Year award at Penn State, as well as being named a fellow by the International Educators Association: Information Systems & Computing Academic Professionals, a non-profit organization for academics in information systems and computing. In addition to his research and teaching, Peslak has also been a leader in global collaboration through the Experiential Digital Global Exchange (EDGE) program, partnering with institutions such as the University of Auckland in New Zealand and Seifullin Agrotech University in Kazakhstan to connect students globally via technology-driven learning. Peslak also contributes to the broader academic community through service on multiple editorial boards and as a reviewer for leading journals, including the Journal of Business Ethics, Journal of Computer Information Systems and Communications of the ACM.
Penn State Scranton Announces Leadership Essentials Workshop Series A Leadership Workshop for Professionals Seeking Advanced Skills Professionals, managers, and supervisors can strengthen their leadership abilities and enhance their roles within today’s evolving work environment through this comprehensive program. The workshops are highly interactive and led by Penn State professionals with real-world experience who understand the demands and challenges of modern workplaces. Participants from a wide range of occupations will have the opportunity to share their own experiences while exploring supervisory topics designed to support success in the workplace, career development, and personal growth. This four-week program offers practical tools and strategies that empower professionals to become valued leaders within their organizations. Dates: Wednesdays, 9 am – Noon at Penn State Scranton10/29; 11/5; 11/12 & 11/19Cost $300 Click here for more information
Penn State Scranton Announces Staff Updates Penn State Scranton has announced several staff updates, including new titles and responsibilities across various departments. These changes reflect the University’s continued commitment to strengthening its leadership and support structures to enhance its academic and administrative operations. Admissions Office Alex Ellsworth Alex Ellsworth has been named the regional associate director of enrollment management at Penn State Scranton. Ellsworth earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Scranton in 2015 and completed a master’s degree in higher education through Penn State World Campus in 2024. Previously serving as the interim director of enrollment management at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, he now takes on expanded responsibilities overseeing daily operations for the admissions departments at both the Scranton and Wilkes-Barre campuses. In addition to his new role, Ellsworth will serve as a regional leader for the three northeast campuses further supporting recruitment and enrollment efforts across the region. Aaron Mattern Aaron Mattern has been appointed senior regional director of enrollment management for Penn State Scranton, Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre. Mattern holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Marywood University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from the University of Valley Forge. Previously serving as the director of enrollment management at Penn State Hazleton, Mattern now leads the regional enrollment management team across all three campuses. His responsibilities include overseeing admissions and financial aid efforts by implementing strategic recruitment and yield initiatives tailored to each campus while adopting a unified regional approach where appropriate. Alyssa Russel Alyssa Russel has been appointed student aid coordinator and VA school certifying official at the campus. In this role, she oversees student aid processes, serves on the Scholarship Committee and helps award institutional scholarships. Russel also provides counseling to students and families about financial aid options and assists with the FAFSA and awarding stages. Starting March 1, Russel’s title will change to VA Point of Contact, though her responsibilities are expected to remain the same. Bursar’s Office Tina Weidele Tina Weidele has been named regional financial officer for Penn State Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. A graduate of Kutztown University with a degree in secondary mathematics and a minor in music, Weidele previously served as assistant financial officer at Penn State Lehigh Valley. In her new role, she oversees budgeting and financial operations to ensure alignment with University policies and regional planning initiatives. Center for Business Development and Community Outreach (CBDCO) Office Jo Ann Durdan Jo Ann Durdan has been appointed interim regional lead of Continuing Education for Penn State Scranton, Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre. In this role, she is responsible for developing and overseeing continuing education programs, including workforce development, youth programs and budget forecasting. Durdan works closely with campus leadership to address the needs of the campuses and the surrounding community while providing project-based learning opportunities for students. Durdan holds a bachelor’s degree in corporate communication and a master of education from Penn State Development Office Desiree Voitek Desiree Voitek has been appointed senior director of campus development, northeast region. Previously serving as director of campus Development and Alumni Relations, Voitek will now oversee the development and alumni relations programs at the Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre campuses as well as manage the advancement program at Scranton. In her expanded role, she will focus on cultivating and strengthening relationships with alumni and donors to secure philanthropic gifts that support the campuses’ growth and initiatives. Voitek holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Penn State and a master’s degree in health care administration from King’s College. Facilities Office Michael Chura Michael Chura has been promoted to regional facilities manager for Penn State Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. With 40 years of experience at Penn State, Chura now oversees the maintenance, operations and strategic planning for over 200 acres and 27 buildings across the three campuses. His expanded role includes managing safety, emergency preparedness and collective bargaining for the facilities teams at each location. Information Technology Office Connor Haggerty Connor Haggerty has joined as the new IT support specialist in Penn State IT. Haggerty has three years of experience in help-desk operations from his time at both Penn State Hazleton and Penn State Scranton. In his previous role, he worked as a student worker at the help desk. In his new position, he will support both the Hazleton and Scranton campuses while also assisting Wilkes-Barre as needed.Haggerty is working towards completing a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Penn State Hazleton and is expected to graduate in the Spring of 2026. Rob Notari Rob Notari has been named interim IT leader for Penn State Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. A 1999 graduate of Wilkes University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Notari previously served as a systems administrator at Penn State Scranton, focusing on the campus’ technical environment, security and updates. In his new role, Notari takes on expanded responsibilities overseeing IT operations across the three northeast campuses, transitioning from a primarily technical role to a more managerial position that emphasizes leadership and strategic direction. Office of Human Resources Aurora Brunovsky Aurora Brunovsky continues as a human resources consultant, expanding her portfolio to now support five campuses: Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Schuylkill and Lehigh Valley. With a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology from Penn State and a master’s degree in community counseling from the University of Scranton, Brunovsky brings over eight years of HR experience across multiple campuses to her role. She focuses on providing strategic HR support and fostering collaborative efforts across her assigned campuses. Maureen Carr Maureen Carr has been appointed HR consultant for Penn State Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Schuylkill and Lehigh Valley campuses following an HR reorganization. Carr, who joined Penn State in 2010 and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Beaver College (now Arcadia University), brings years of experience from her work at Penn State Berks and other campuses. Her responsibilities include supporting staff and faculty with human resource needs across her expanded portfolio of campuses. Office of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Business Jonathan Kutka Jonathan Kutka has assumed a dual role as senior director of regional campus relations and director of strategic initiatives at Penn State. In these positions, he provides operational support for six campuses, including Scranton, and oversees strategic planning, administration, and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging initiatives for over 7,300 employees. A Penn State alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and an MBA from Alvernia University, Kutka has over 20 years of leadership experience and has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the University and community. Student Leadership and Involvement Office Matthew Nied Matthew Nied, director of student services and engagement at Penn State Scranton was appointed interim northeast regional director of Athletics. In this expanded role, Nied will oversee and support athletic functions across the Scranton, Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre campuses. Nied holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a minor in communications from Alvernia University, earned in 2007, and a master’s degree in organizational and strategic leadership from Neumann University, completed in 2009. Previously, he served as assistant director of student services and engagement and began his career as assistant director of Unions, Programs and Student Activities. Carrie Orlofski Carrie Orlofski recently joined Penn State Scranton as the administrative assistant to Student Services and Engagement. Orlofski obtained an associate’s degree in general studies with a focus on accounting from Luzerne County Community College in 2019. Prior to this role, Orlofski worked at Penn State Wilkes-Barre as the administrative assistant for the TRIO Student Support Services program. There, she supported first-generation students, those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and students with disabilities—helping to ensure they had the tools and resources needed to thrive academically. In her new role at Scranton, Orlofski will be assisting with student engagement initiatives, supporting career services, and health and wellness programs for students. Nikki Paolicelli Nikki Paolicelli has been named assistant director of student services and engagement and coordinator of student activities at Penn State Scranton. A 2019 Penn State graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business management, Paolicelli is also pursuing a master’s degree in strategic communications through Penn State World Campus. In her new role, she continues to assist students with campus transitions, advises the Student Government Association (SGA) and manages key events such as the Summer Leadership Training Week and various academic recognition celebrations. Paolicelli also coordinates campus-wide student activities, oversees clubs and organizations, serves as an adviser for THON and leads diversity, equity and inclusion programming to foster community engagement.
Penn State Scranton Announces Community Fall Fest Penn State Scranton is inviting the local community to celebrate the autumn season at its first-ever Community Fall Festival, scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 16. The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the campus’ soccer fields. The festival is free and open to the public and will offer a variety of fun, family-friendly activities for kids and adults of all ages. Organized by the campus’ Student Services Office, the festival promises an evening of seasonal fun for families, students and residents of the Greater Scranton area. Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of activities designed to capture the spirit of fall, including a pumpkin patch, free apple cider and donuts, live music and interactive games for all ages. Fall fun for all! Among the featured attractions are pumpkin bowling, oversized tic-tac-toe and checkers tables, a knock-down-the-bottles game and a tactile play table. Additional yard games and stations will be set up throughout the event space, including a photo station, fire pit lounge area, petting zoo, candy corn guessing jar and more! Local historian Julie Esty will present “True Scranton Story” sessions and lead storytelling of the historic Dunmore Cemetery. In addition, children attending the festival can look forward to engaging in Halloween-themed tales told by Penn State Student Engagement and Outreach Libarian Molly Abdalla. Guests can also participate in a guided Fall Foliage Walk around campus and also visit a petting zoo, courtesy of Buttinhead Farms. Food will be available for purchase from a variety of local food trucks. For those with a sweet tooth, complimentary treats will include apple cider, donuts and a S’mores station. Penn State Scranton encourages individuals of all abilities to attend and participate. Anyone requiring accommodations or with questions about accessibility is asked to contact Matthew Nied, director of student services and engagement, at mdn11@psu.edu prior to the event. For additional information or inquiries, contact the Student Services Office at Penn State Scranton.
Penn State Scranton Announces Open House Prospective students and their families are invited to visit Penn State Scranton for its Penn State Day Open House on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 9:30 a.m. or Saturday, November 15 During their visit, guests will learn about the campus’ 13 bachelor degrees and four associate degrees; Penn State’s unique 2+2 Plan, which allows students to start their degree at Scranton and complete it at University Park or another PSU campus; and Penn State’s 275+ degrees. They will also meet current students, staff and faculty, and tour the campus, including its cutting-edge labs, Mechanical Engineering Building and new Library and Nursing Building. Any prospective student who attends before applying as an undergraduate is also eligible for an application fee waiver. “We cordially invite families exploring college options to join us for Penn State Day,” Interim Regional Chancellor Durell Johnson said. “This open house is an opportunity to explore our campus, learn about the excellent educational experience we offer, and get a glimpse of the exciting experiences awaiting you at Penn State Hazleton.” “Whether you’re a high school student, transfer student, adult learner, or are thinking of resuming your education after taking some time off, Penn State Day is a convenient all-in-one opportunity to discover how a Penn State education can set you up for success,” Regional Senior Director of Enrollment Management Aaron Mattern said. “We encourage prospective students to come see our campus, ask questions, and experience first-hand what it’s like to be a Penn Stater.” Attendees can register online. Prospective students may explore other admissions events at Penn State Scranton or schedule a personal appointment by contacting the Admissions Office at 570-963-2500 or scranton.psu.edu/admission.
Penn State Scranton Appoints Durell Johnson as Interim Chancellor Durell Johnson, Ph.D., chief academic officer at Penn State Scranton, has been named interim regional chancellor for Penn State’s Hazleton, Scranton and Wilkes-Barre campuses. Johnson has been with the University for over 25 years, starting at Penn State Scranton in 1999 as an assistant professor of human development and family studies. After earning tenure, he was promoted in 2005 to assistant director of academic affairs, served as discipline coordinator for the Division of Health and Human Development in the University College from 2008-09, and was named associate director of academic affairs in 2009 before being promoted to chief academic officer in 2016. “I’m honored to have been selected for the role of interim chancellor,” Johnson said. “I look forward to supporting our students, faculty and staff at all three campuses and maintaining the academic excellence and positive community impact for which Penn State is known.” A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Johnson holds a baccalaureate degree in psychology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX, a master’s degree in experimental child psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and a doctoral degree in developmental psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He resides in Clarks Summit.
Penn State Scranton to Host Upcoming ‘Spend A Summer Day’ Open House Spend A Summer Day Prospective students are invited to learn about the numerous educational opportunities at Penn State Scranton during its upcoming “Spend A Summer Day” open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, August 8.During their visit, guests will learn about the campus’ degree programs; its unique 2+2 Plan, which allows students to start their degree at Scranton and complete it at University Park or another PSU campus; and Penn State’s 275+ degrees. They will also meet current students, staff and faculty, and tour the campus, including its cutting-edge labs and new Library and Nursing Building.Register at https://scranton.psu.edu/summer-event
Penn State Scranton to Conduct Babysitter American Red Cross Training Course Babysitter American Red Cross Training Babysitter’s Amercian Red CrossTraining and Pediatric First Aid/CPRDiscover the rewarding world of childcare and learn what to do when you are in charge!Learn about child safety, how to “play it safe” and the basics of caring for children while developing your leadership skills.Find out how to prevent and recognize emergency situations, as well as how to provide basic first aid and CPR for infants and children until an emergency medical team arrives.Ages: 11-16Dates: July 22, 2025 & July 23, 2025Times: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.Fee: $259Instructor: Karen StylianidesMaximum Seating: 15 https://scranton.psu.edu/business-development-community-outreach/options/youth-programs/nittany-cub-summer-camps/baby-sitter-training
