Marywood University Announces New Endowed/Annual Scholarships Marywood University recently announced five endowed scholarships and two annual scholarships at the 2026 Scholarship Luncheon. The annual luncheon brought together students, donors, and esteemed guests to celebrate the impact of scholarships and express heartfelt appreciation for the donors who make scholarships possible. Emma Budnovitch ’26, Roaring Brook Township, BS Biochemistry, was the student scholar who spoke on behalf of the student scholarship recipients. She noted, “Scholarships do not just ease financial burdens, but they allow students like me to discover their passions and the confidence to pursue them. Because of your support, I did not just attend Marywood, I fully experienced it.” Institutional aid through scholarships allows Marywood University to assist students and make their education affordable and attainable. In 2025-2026, Marywood provided more than $3.5 million in institutional aid through 642 named scholarships awarded to 556 individual students. New endowed named scholarships can be established with a gift of $50,000 or more. New annual named scholarships can be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. For information on establishing a named scholarship, please contact the Office of University Advancement at 570-348-6238 or development@marywood.edu. The newly endowed scholarships include: The Rocco and Catherine Ciliberti Endowed Scholarship, established by Henry and Margaret Jordan Sallusti ’83, supports academically accomplished local students with financial need, who wish to pursue studies in Nutrition and Dietetics or the Health Sciences. The Kelleher Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Frank Kelleher ’03, Trustee of Marywood University, and his wife, Lauren, supports business students with financial need. The Dr. Lotte Behrendt von Kerczek Endowed Scholarship, established by Elisabeth Gilligan ’59, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need with preference to students enrolled in a major in Science, Math, or Computer Science Department or in the Health Sciences. The Class of 1972 Endowed Scholarship, established by the Marywood Class of 1972 in honor of their 50th Reunion, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need. The Joey Monaghan ’21 Endowed Scholarship, established by Richard Gorelick, supports full-time undergraduates with financial need who demonstrate leadership, compassion, and a desire to help others excel. The newly established annual scholarships include: The Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell Annual Scholarship, established by Dr. Alice Elaine McDonnell, M.P.A. ’77, supports full-time graduate students in the Master of Healthcare Administration program with financial need and academic achievement. The Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68 Annual Scholarship, established by Barbara Spellman Shuta ’68, Marywood Alumni Association Board Member Emerita, supports full-time undergraduates with academic achievement and financial need.
Women In Philanthropy To Host Justice Bell Program Exploring Pennsylvania Women’s Fight For The Vote Women in Philanthropy, an initiative of the Scranton Area Community Foundation, will host a special community event on Monday, June 8, 2026, highlighting the history of women’s suffrage in Pennsylvania through film, storytelling, and conversation. Held in partnership with the Lackawanna Historical Society and as part of the America250PA initiative, Pennsylvania Women and Their Fight for the Vote will take place from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Scranton Area Community Foundation at the Century Club, located at 612 Jefferson Avenue in Scranton. The evening will feature a screening of Finding Justice: The Untold Story of Women’s Fight for the Vote, a 19-minute documentary that is part present-day detective story and part historical account of the movement for voting rights. The film tells the story of the Justice Bell—a one-ton bronze replica of the Liberty Bell with its clapper chained to symbolize women’s silenced voices—and the determined group of women who carried it across all 67 Pennsylvania counties in 1915 to advocate for voting rights. The bell wasfinally rung in Philadelphia in 1920 following the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a live Q&A with filmmaker and Justice Bell Foundation Executive Director Amanda Owen. Signed copies of her book, The Justice Bell: Tracing the Journey of a Forgotten Symbol, will also be available for purchase. “This event offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the women who helped shape our history, while coming together as a community to learn and connect,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through Women in Philanthropy, we’re proud to create spaces like this that invite people into important conversations and shared experiences.” “We’re honored to partner on this program and to help bring this important piece of Pennsylvania history to our community,” said Mary Ann Savakinus, Executive Director of the Lackawanna Historical Society. “The story of the Justice Bell is a powerful reminder of the determination and courage it took to secure the right to vote, and why preserving and sharing these stories continues to matter.” The evening will also include light refreshments and opportunities to explore several historical and civic features located at the Century Club, including the Inspiration Garden, the America250PA Bells Across PA fiberglass Liberty Bell replica, A State of Giving, A City of Hope, painted by artist Cherie Fruehan, and the Kate Chapman marker on the National Votes for Women Trail, honoring the founder of the Equal Franchise League of Scranton, who led suffrage advocacy in Lackawanna County from 1913 to 1919. The event is free and open to the public, though registration is encouraged
Wally Wine Fest Returns To Lake Wallenpaupack Wally Wine Fest returns to The Waterfront at Silver Birches, June 5-7. The indoor/outdoor event on the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack offers three jam-packed days of sampling, shopping and soaking in the scenery. Visitors may enjoy sips from more than 100 domestic and international labels, a varied marketplace of artisan goods and live music on two stages. Festivities kick off on Friday, June 5 with a Platinum Wine Dinner at The Settlers Inn. The Live Fire Dinner in Grant’s Woods features a five-course barbecue feast created by celebrity guest chef, Chad Rosenthal. The charismatic chef is a regular on the Food Network with appearances on “Food Network Star,” “Grill Masters” and most recently, “24 in 24.” Chad also has the distinction of being the only person to “Beat Bobby Flay” three times in all his appearances on the eponymously named show. Chad is an accomplished chef and restaurateur whose Philadelphia eatery, Mary, makes one of the Top 15 steaks in the city according to the “Philadelphia Inquirer.” Guests will take a seat in the open-air woodland diningvenue and watch Chef Chad prepare the feast in the outdoor kitchen. Each course is paired with a curated selection from Kobrand Wine and Spirits. Jody Jackman, a seasoned wine and spirits professional with Breakthru Beverage will guide guests through each selection, sharing regional history, winemaking insight and pairing perspective. A $200 Platinum Ticket allows access to the Live Fire Dinneras well as entry to Wally Wine Fest on Saturday, June 6. Wally Wine Fest shifts to Silver Birches Resort on Saturday and Sunday where visitors will have the opportunity to sample vintages from more than 100 domestic and international labels. Wineries from as far away as New Zealand, Italy, France, Napa Valley and the Pacific Northwest are represented. Novice wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample a variety of pours and discover which wine suits their palate. Wine connoisseurs will relish the opportunity to interact one-on-one with wine makers, restauranteurs and sommeliers who are knowledgeable in flavor profiles, can discuss the differences among wine, grapes and varietals, plus point out the notes to be enjoyed for each. Bottles of every wine featured are available for sale. With prices ranging from $10-$100, there’s something to match every taste and budget. An indoor and outdoor marketplace will overflow with fine food, gift items and decor fit for wine lovers– all available for purchase. Visitors may shop offerings from places such as Bellissima Eclectic Apparel, A Girl’s Gotta Spa and Kryzan Design offering hand-poured candles in a variety of scents including some wine-inspired selections. A Silent Auction benefits Lake Wallenpaupack’s Fourth of July Fireworks and features overnight stays at some of the area’s finest accommodations plus gift cards to local restaurants and businesses. Golf and spa packages, as well asboat and paddle board rentals, are also up for grabs. Satellite events at other Hawley area venues extend the Wally Wine Fest celebration. The Settlers Inn will offer a Bubbly Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visitors may savor a brunch menu, live music and a tasting flight of sparkling wine. Glass-wine.bar.kitchen at Ledges Hotel will host a Tour de France French Wine Dinner on Saturday night while the deck at The Dock on Wallenpaupack is the setting for an Italia al Fresco Wine Dinner on Friday evening. Wally Wine Fest at Silver Birches runs from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Everyone who attends receives a commemorative wine glass. Admission is $40 in advance or $50 at the door and includes 15 sampling tickets. The sampling tickets may be exchanged for wine tastings. A $75 VIP admission allows entry to the festival one hour early and 25 sampling tickets. The $200 Platinum admission price offers early entry, increases the sampling tickets to 25 and includes a seat at the Live Fire Dinner at The Settlers Inn on June 5. Admission for designated drivers is $20. Tickets are available at wallywinefest.com
American Heart Association To Host NEPA Pursenalities Event The American Heart Association of Eastern Pennsylvania invites community members to attend Pursenalities, a signature fundraiser benefiting the Go Red for Women initiative. This one-of-a-kind event combines networking, socializing, and a designer purse auction, creating an evening that celebrates the stories and personalities of local women while supporting a meaningful cause. Each purse featured in the auction is paired with its donor’s unique “pursenality,” offering attendees a glimpse into the woman behind the bag. Tickets are $50 and include a drink ticket and delicious food. Guests can enjoy an evening of connection, inspiration, and philanthropy while helping advance the American Heart Association’s mission to improve women’s heart health.
Circle Drive-In Announces Upcoming Events Circle Drive-In is kicking off a busy summer season with the return of double features and Sunday films on Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor movie screen. On Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6, moviegoers can enjoy double-feature programming on both screens. Sunday, June 7, will feature single screenings of Scary Movie and Backrooms. Visit Circle Drive-In’s website for showtimes and additional details. The popular Circle Flea Fair is also now open every Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through November. New vendors are welcome each week, and shoppers can explore NEPA’s largest flea market for just $1 per vehicle. Looking ahead, Circle Drive-In is seeking vendors for its America 250 Freedom Fest on Saturday, June 13, from 11:00 a.m. to dusk. The free, family-friendly community event will feature live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, games, a car show, bike run, and more. Vendors offering crafts, artisan goods, food, beverages, entertainment, and patriotic merchandise are encouraged to apply. For additional information about movies, the flea fair, vendor opportunities, or Freedom Fest, visit Circle Drive-In’s website.
NEPA Youth Shelter To Host Open House NEPA Youth Shelter will host an Open House on Friday, June 5, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. located at 895 Providence Road, Scranton. In celebration of NEPA Gives, community members are invited to tour the space, meet the organization’s Executive Director, staff, and Board of Directors, and learn more about its mission and impact throughout the region. Light refreshments will be available for attendees. The event offers an opportunity to connect with the NEPA Youth Shelter team and gain insight into the services and support provided to local youth.
Junior Achievement Of Northeastern Pennsylvania To Host Celebration Happy Hour Junior Achievement of Northeastern Pennsylvania had a successful year, impacting more than 13,000 students throughout the region. To celebrate another outstanding year of service and achievement, JA will host a Happy Hour Celebration on Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Jonathan’s Deck Bar. The cost to attend is $20 with pre-registration or $25 at the door. The evening will feature live music, appetizers, a cash bar, door prizes, raffles, and networking opportunities. Guests are encouraged to attend and celebrate JA’s continued impact on students across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Meals On Wheels Of NEPA To Hold Celebration Event Following NEPA Gives On Friday, June 5th, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Meals on Wheels of NEPA will be holding a Closing Celebration at Voodoo Brewing in Scranton to celebrate the end of NEPA Gives! NEPA Gives is the region’s largest giving event. Since its inception in 2020, it has raised over $5 million for over 250 nonprofits in NEPA. Meals on Wheels of NEPA is honored to once again participate in the event. To celebrate another successful NEPA Gives, Meals on Wheels of NEPA will be celebrating at Voodoo Brewing in Scranton. There is no purchase or registration required to attend the event. We hope to see the community there so we can properly thank those who have supported our organization during NEPA Gives. Executive Director, Lindsey Skripka says “We are so grateful to Voodoo Brewing for hosting us as we celebrate the close of an incredible day of giving. NEPA Gives is a wonderful opportunity to support regional nonprofits, and we are so glad to be a part of the historic event for another year!”
The Wright Center To Host Tinnitus Support Group Meeting In June Tinnitus Support Group of Northeast Pennsylvania will host its next meeting on Friday, June 5 at 2:00 p.m. at The Wright Center for Community Health Mid Valley. Virtual meeting options will also be available for those unable to attend in person. The support group welcomes individuals living with tinnitus, their loved ones, and anyone interested in learning more about the audiological and neurological condition. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others, share experiences, and discuss coping strategies in a supportive and compassionate environment. There is no fee to attend, and new members are welcome. Tinnitus, commonly described as ringing, buzzing, or whooshing in the ears or head, affects more than 50 million adults in the United States. While some individuals experience temporary symptoms, others face chronic and life-altering effects. The program is supported in part through the Support Group Grant Program of the American Tinnitus Association. For additional information or to obtain the virtual meeting link, contact Joe Kelly at kellyj@TheWrightCenter.org or by phone at 570-230-0019.
Scranton Area Community Foundation To Host PA Navigate Informational Session Scranton Area Community Foundation, through its Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence, will host an informational session titled “PA Navigate: What You Need to Know—and Why It Matters Now” on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Foundation’s auditorium. The session will introduce PA Navigate, a statewide initiative supported by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that is helping identify community needs, service gaps, and unmet demand across the state. Information gathered through the platform is being used to help inform future funding priorities, resource allocation, and statewide planning efforts. Designed for nonprofit leaders, healthcare organizations, educators, government agencies, community partners, funders, policymakers, and frontline providers, the session will provide an overview of how PA Navigate contributes to broader community support and planning initiatives throughout Pennsylvania. “As a community foundation, part of our responsibility is ensuring that Northeastern Pennsylvania is represented in important statewide conversations,” said Laura Ducceschi. “This session is an opportunity for organizations to better understand PA Navigate, how it is being used at the state level, and what it may mean for our region.” Attendees will learn how PA Navigate complements other tools currently being used across the region, how statewide data is helping shape future funding and resource decisions, and what level of engagement may be appropriate for their organization or community. The session will also include time for questions and discussion. “For Community Action, PA Navigate is a natural extension of the work our network has been doing since its inception,” said Beck Moore, CEO of the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania. “PA Navigate gives us another way to educate, support, and strengthen those local connections across Pennsylvania.” A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required by June 5, 2026, and space may be limited.
