A Five-Year Vision for Growth: The Scranton Plan 3.0 Launches with $2M Regional Investment The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, together with its divisions The Scranton Plan, Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), and Skills in Scranton, is formally announcing the public launch of The Scranton Plan 3.0 Strategy. This milestone begins the public phase of a $2 million investment campaign dedicated to support strategic workforce and economic development programming across the region. Funds invested into The Scranton Plan 3.0 will support a comprehensive, five-year initiative focused on three core priorities: attracting, retaining, and aligning talent; driving business development through strategic marketing; and directing strategic development and community planning. Together, these efforts are designed to strengthen the region’s competitive position and guide coordinated investment and decision-making. “The Scranton Plan 3.0 is a call to action for our business, civic, and community partners to lead with purpose,” said Pete Danchak, PNC regional president for Northeast PA, PNC Bank, and co-chair of The Scranton Plan. “By aligning workforce development, business investment, and community priorities, this plan creates a clear, measurable roadmap for growth—one that positions northeastern Pennsylvania to compete, adapt, and thrive over the next five years.” The Scranton Plan 3.0 builds on decades of collaborative leadership and positions the region to respond proactively to evolving workforce, business, and community needs through focused, data-driven strategy. Grace McGregor Kramer, vice president of strategy and operations, McGregor Industries, Inc., and co-chair of Scranton Plan, shares, “This is an exciting and historic opportunity to bring our community together around a shared vision for the future.” McGregor Kramer adds, “The Scranton Plan 3.0 will help guide smart growth, strengthen our workforce, and ensure Scranton remains a great place to live, work, and build what’s next!” “Developed through extensive collaboration with public and private stakeholders, The Scranton Plan 3.0 is designed to be nimble, measurable, and responsive to real-time employer needs,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “The plan builds on the success of prior Scranton Plan and Skills in Scranton initiatives in areas such as workforce and infrastructure readiness, while addressing emerging issues such as childcare, housing, and transportation availability.” For more information on the Scranton Plan 3.0 2026-2030 Strategy or how to become an investor, visit www.scrantonchamber.com or contact Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development at 570-342-7711 Ext. 134. The Scranton Plan was established in 1945 by local business leaders as a strategic initiative to grow Scranton’s economic base, create jobs, and coordinate community investment—efforts that led to the formation of SLIBCO and Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises (LIFE). Retooled as The Scranton Plan 2.0 in the mid-1980s as the economic development marketing division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, it has become an award-winning driver of regional growth. Today, The Scranton Plan continues to tackle key challenges and drive sustainable economic growth through focused, strategic initiatives.
REACHUM Launches as World’s First Post-SCORM AI Learning Platform REACHUM is proud to announce the official launch of REACHUM, an AI-powered learning platform for enterprises. Developed right here in Scranton, REACHUM represents a significant milestone in corporate training technology. REACHUM is positioned as The World’s First Post-SCORM Learning Platform. This innovative technology addresses long-standing challenges in corporate training by replacing fragmented software stacks (LMS, LXP, Authoring Tools) with one unified system. This launch allows enterprises to update training content in seconds, not weeks, which translates to a projected 50% reduction in content production time and a substantial reduction in software costs. Furthermore, REACHUM moves beyond simple “completion rates” by leveraging AI to provide superior insights. It analyzes user interaction and hesitation to generate a Workforce Readiness Heatmap, giving business leaders clearer data on competence and learning effectiveness that directly ties back to business outcomes. We are excited to contribute this innovation to the technology sector from the Scranton Enterprise Center.
University of Scranton Ranked by U.S. News “Best Online” U.S. News Ranks University of Scranton Among ‘Best Online’Strong student excellence and engagement scores helped Scranton stand out among hundreds of online business and MBA programs. The University of Scranton, fueled by elite finishes in two of its signature MBA specializations, remains one of the best colleges and universities for an online graduate education, according to the U.S. News and World Report’s 2026 “Best Online Graduate Programs” rankings. Scranton earned a rare dual achievement with two top-20 finishes in the MBA Finance (tied, 14th) and MBA Business Analytics (tied, 16th) categories. Additionally, the University tied for 76th in Best Online Master’s in Business Programs and tied for 152nd in Best Online MBA Programs. Hundreds of qualifying schools were eligible for the U.S. News rankings, which were released Tuesday, Jan. 27. U.S. News considers criteria including student engagement, student excellence, faculty credentials and training and student services and technology. Scranton performed particularly well in the student engagement and student excellence categories. Student engagement examines factors like graduation rates, class size, one-year retention rates and best practices such as accreditation by AACSB International, while student excellence weighs acceptance rates, work experience and students’ undergraduate GPAs, among other things. In the Best Online Master’s in Business Programs category, Scranton ranked No. 7 in student excellence and No. 47 in student engagement. According to the most recent Roche Family Center for Career Development’s First Destination Survey, graduate degree recipients in The University of Scranton’s Class of 2024 reported a 100% success rate. Survey participants reported a mean annual salary of $82,932 — a 15.4% increase from just three years earlier — with 95% of them employed full-time. Scranton offers online graduate degrees in accounting and finance, business, business analytics, health administration, health informatics, health sciences, human resources, operations and management, social sciences and STEM, as well as graduate certificates in various fields. The University of Scranton also achieved high marks in the U.S. News 2026 “Best Colleges” report, released in the fall, which ranked Scranton as a top 10 college in its region with six undergraduate programs ranked nationally. The most recent U.S. News “Best Graduate Schools” report also placed five University of Scranton programs in the top 50 in the nation and several more in the top 150.
Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau Named Pennsylvana’s 2025 Tourism & Event Planning Organization of the Year Big news we’re proud to share! 🌟 The Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau has been named Pennsylvania’s 2025 Tourism & Event Planning Organization of the Year by International Explorer!We’re also honored to be featured in their magazine spread titled “From Local Charm to Global Reach: The Strategy Behind Lackawanna County’s Tourism Success.” The article highlights how our community, partners, and shared commitment to showcasing what makes Lackawanna County special come together to elevate our destination on a global stage. 🌍✨Read the full spread (pages 42-43) 👉 https://lnkd.in/eC3WAncfThis recognition is a true testament to the incredible attractions, events, partners, businesses, and people who make our county such a special place to visit – and to call home. Thank you to everyone who helps bring our story to life every day! 💙
Gentex Corporation Named One of the Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania Gentex Corporation has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania, an honor that underscores the company’s commitment to creating a high-performing, collaborative, empowered, and people & team-focused workplace culture dedicated to what’s best for the organization and our mission. The annual survey and recognition program, conducted by the Best Companies Group in partnership with BridgeTower Media and several business journals across Pennsylvania, identifies and celebrates the state’s top employers. Gentex was named one of just 35 organizations in the large company category. The award is particularly meaningful because it’s based heavily on employee feedback. That employee-driven component makes this recognition especially significant for Gentex. The company’s participation included employees from its Carbondale, Pennsylvania, location, as well as remote team members assigned to the Pennsylvania office and those based in Norwood, Massachusetts, spanning roles in business development, sales, product management, and marketing. “This recognition is a reflection of the culture we’ve built together,” said Tim Tyler, VP of Human Resources at Gentex Corporation. “We believe that when you invest in people and create an environment where everyone feels valued, amazing things can happen. This award celebrates the heart of our business; our team.” A Reflection of Continuous Improvement The recognition highlights Gentex’s ongoing journey to strengthen its organization and employee experience across every level. In recent years, the company has made significant investments in areas such as benefits, benchmarking, compensation, organizational and career development, leadership, and a consistent one-team culture. This achievement also reflects Gentex’s commitment to continuous improvement through employee input in annual engagement surveys and in everyday conversations that drive meaningful change. While earning this designation was a goal, Gentex leaders emphasize that the most valuable outcome of the process is the insight gained from employee feedback. That information continues to guide efforts to strengthen the company’s culture and ensure that Gentex remains a great place to work for everyone. Interested in exploring career opportunities at one of Gentex Corporation’s locations? View our open positions here.
The Chamber Announces Scranton Business Award Winners The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce announces the winners of the 2026 SAGE, ATHENA Leadership, and Milestone Awards. The recipients will be recognized at the 157th Chamber Annual Dinner, presented by PNC Bank, on March 25, at the Scranton Cultural Center. The Scranton Awards for Growth and Excellence (SAGE), recognize the outstanding efforts, talent, creativity, and innovation within the northeastern Pennsylvania business community. The SAGE for Business of the Year The SAGE for Business of the Year, sponsored by Fidelity Bank, recognizes a business that has a clear strategic vision and has demonstrated growth in at least one of the following categories: customers, revenue, product and services, or employees. The 2026 SAGE Business of the Year will be presented to Basalyga Hospitality. Basalyga Hospitality is a food, beverage, and entertainment business creating dining, nightlife, and hospitality experiences throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. Its multi-faceted portfolio includes eight properties that span from taverns to movie theaters to fine dining. Its mission is to restore and revitalize buildings and create new business opportunities while providing exemplary service to our community. The SAGE for Small Business of the Year This SAGE for Small Business of the Year, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank, recognizes a business that has demonstrated growth in at least one of the following categories: customers, revenue, product and services, or employees. The 2026 SAGE Small Business of the Year will be presented to Everything Natural. Everything Natural is a community-focused health and wellness store dedicated to elevating the well-being of its customers. Originally established in 1985 as one of the region’s first health food and supplements store, the business has evolved and provides healthy grab-and-go meals, a fitness studio, and educational opportunities for its customers. The business is laser-focused on serving its community through event sponsorships and providing support to community groups and organizations in the area. The SAGE for Community Involvement Excellence The SAGE for Community Involvement Excellence, sponsored by Pennsylvania American Water, recognizes a business that has made outstanding contributions to its community through philanthropy or the investment of financial or other resources, such as time, talent, materials/facility/equipment, or involvement of staff or others in the organization. The 2026 SAGE Community Involvement Excellence will be presented to CHOP Out Hunger (CHOP). CHOP is a nonprofit organization with the mission to eradicate childhood hunger. CHOP works alongside schools, businesses, and community partners to ensure children have food when they need it the most. CHOP serves approximately 45,000 children across Pennsylvania, partnering with 150 schools and community organizations. The ATHENA Leadership Award The ATHENA Leadership Award, sponsored by Michael A. Barbetti, LLC, CPA, is presented to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her/his business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way, and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills. The 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award will be presented to Laureen “Laurie” Cadden. For more than 35 years, Laurie Cadden has shared her time and talents with dozens of civic organizations and charities in northeastern Pennsylvania. In addition to her love of the arts, Cadden has committed herself to empowering women through financial education and literacy. Through decades of hands-on service and leadership, she has helped shape a more vibrant, equitable, and connected community in which women are encouraged to lead, invest, and thrive. The 2026 Milestone Awards The Milestone Award, sponsored by NBT Bank, recognizes businesses and nonprofits celebrating anniversaries in 5-year increments. A. Pickett Construction Automated Lifestyles Ballet Theatre of Scranton – The Presentation of the Nutcracker Blu Elefante Events Community Bank, N.A. Crystal Window & Door Systems PA Damage Control, Inc. EHEALTH Wellness & Fitness Studio, Inc. Golden Technologies Groove Brewing Home Health Care Professionals & Hospice – HHCP La Festa Italiana Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania Nibbles and Bits Northeast Regional Cancer Institute PA Advocates Inc Mohegan Pennsylvania (Pocono Downs) Pulman Interiors Quest Studio Scranton Jazz Festival Serving Seniors Inc. The Dime Bank The Honesdale National Bank The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education TravelWorld United Sports Academy United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Wayne Bank WRC, Inc. (formerly Women’s Resource Center) WVIA Additionally, all SAGE and Milestone recipients will have the opportunity to be chosen as the 2026 SAGE People’s Choice Award recipient, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank and Trust. The winner will be chosen at the 157th Chamber Annual Dinner using a live online voting platform.
WVIA Hosts Keystone Edition – Data Centers: Deal of Dilemma Event How often have you heard the phrase “data center” lately? They are being talked about in all corners of our area. Data centers are a hot topic right now, but many people don’t know exactly what they are, how they’re used, and why there is opposition to them. We’ll wade through it all on the next edition of Keystone Edition: Data Centers: Deal or Dilemma? WVIA Public Media Studios Free Event 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM on Wed, 11 Feb 2026 By registering for any event, you agree to be added to WVIA’s email list to receive updates, news, and event information. You may unsubscribe at any time. Learn more at the link.
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Announce New and Returning Value-Driven Initatives The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, are pleased to announce several new initiatives geared for veterans, first responders, seniors, and all fans attending games. The game day parking fee is being reduced to $5 per vehicle in 2026. Season ticket members can purchase preferred and general parking passes at a discounted rate. The RailRiders are thrilled to announce a partnership with Veterans Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix) this season. Vet Tix partners with sports organizations to provide free tickets to more than 21 million military members, veterans and their immediate families. These free tickets are available to games as a way to help reduce stress, strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories and encourage service members and veterans to stay connected with their local communities and American life. Members of the military and their families can request free tickets for the upcoming RailRiders’ season through VetTix.org. Active and retired members of the military can show valid identification at the PNC Field Box Office and save $5 per ticket for any game (limited to four tickets per game). First Responder Fridays return for 2026. Thanks to Kost Tire & Auto, first responders have the opportunity to receive free tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. One hundred complimentary tickets are given out for each Friday home game. Visit the First Responder Friday page on the Community tab at swbrailriders.com and fill out the form to request up to four free tickets. First responders, including police, fire and EMTs, can also show an ID at the PNC Field box office on Friday nights to save $5 per ticket (limited to four tickets per game). Additionally, the RailRiders recently announced the new Silver Sluggers program for $60 per person, offering reduced tickets and free parking on Tuesdays to individuals 55 and older who purchase the plan. “Minor League Baseball thrives on many things, including being a great value,” stated Shawn Reilly, the RailRiders’ president & general manager. “Working with Vet Tix and our partners at Kost Tire & Auto is a tremendous part of what we can do. Offering additional savings to those brave members of our nation’s military, both active and retired, our vital area first responders, plus the new Silver Sluggers program and lowering the cost of parking are all steps in creating the best possible value for every trip to PNC Field.” Daily promotions, 2026 theme nights and giveaways will be announced soon. Season tickets are on sale now, and single-game tickets will be available starting at 10 A.M. on February 9. Call (570) 969-2255 or visit swbrailriders.com for more information.
NAACP Lackawanna County Branch Hosts Community Talent Show Come join us for a Black History Month event. All ages!Do you sing? 🎤 Dance? Tap or rap? Come join us for the NAACP Community Talent Show! Sign-up sheet coming! Sign-up at the link.
