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.
The Dime Bank Announces Officer Promotions The Dime Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of four key team members. These well-deserved advancements underscore the bank’s commitment to cultivating and empowering its talent pool while strengthening the overall management team. Jenn Tagle to Vice President Application Services Manager, Robert Karoscik to Vice President Banking Relationship Officer, Riley Terysen to Assistant Vice President Branch Manager, and Adam Ropati to Assistant Vice President Branch Manager. Tagle has been with The Dime Bank since May 2003 holding various positions, contributing her expertise and dedication to the organization for 21 years. As Vice President, Application Services Manager, she is responsible for managing and overseeing the implementation and maintenance of software applications within The Dime Bank. This role involves stakeholder communication and continuous process review and improvement to enhance application performance and support organizational success. Jenn Tagle stated, “I’m truly thankful for this opportunity and look forward to the professional growth it will bring.” Karoscik has been with The Dime Bank since 2015 as branch manager in several branches, leading his team with over 30 years of banking experience. In his role as Vice President, Banking Relationship Officer, Bob is responsible for developing and maintaining residential and commercial customer relationships while overseeing branch operations. Bob inspires his colleagues to bring their best to work each day, ensuring exceptional service for The Dime Bank customers. Terysen has been with The Dime Bank since May 2016, delivering eight years of banking experience. As branch manager, he oversees branch operations, staff development, customer relations, and the growth of deposits and loans. Terysen previously held various roles at The Dime Bank, including teller and assistant branch manager. Terysen stated, “Very thankful for this opportunity and grateful to work for a company that invests in its employees. Looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities ahead.” Ropati joined The Dime Bank in 2023 as a float branch manager and is currently the branch manager of our Steamtown office. He brings many years of experience as a branch manager from another financial institution, showcasing his dedication to customer service and operational excellence. President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Bochnovich stated, “Please join me in congratulating these exceptional employees as they embark on new leadership roles. Their promotions are a testament to their hard work and dedication. At The Dime Bank, our vision is clear: to foster growth, prosperity, and strong community ties while delivering exceptional value to our shareholders. To bring this vision to life, we require a dynamic leadership team capable of driving innovation and inspiring our workforce. I am confident that their expertise and enthusiasm will propel us forward and position us for continued success.”
Greater Scranton YMCA Supports Healthy Families September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, and as children and families start their new school-year routines, it’s a perfect time to reflect on and refresh your family’s healthy habits. Many families, though, may not have easy access to opportunities to learn about and practice healthy behaviors. That’s why the Greater Scranton YMCA — a leading community-based organization dedicated to improving health — wants to help families through nutrition education and increased physical activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of obesity affects about 14.7 million, or one in five U.S. children and adolescents. Obesity can increase risk for health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and some cancers. Here in Pennsylvania, 18 percent of children in grades K-12 are affected by obesity, according to the Department of Health. “Experts now have a heightened understanding of the necessity to provide families with assistance in altering their eating and physical activity patterns,” said Rich Surridge, Interim CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “At the Y, we’re delighted to collaborate with families, extending support as they strive to incorporate changes to help children grow up at a healthy weight.” The Y also promotes open communication between families and their health care providers regarding their children’s health. “A child’s healthy weight cannot be determined based off of appearance,” said Surridge. “Working with health care professionals guarantees that families receive accurate guidance and support.” The Greater Scranton YMCA is helping families improve their health and help youth adopt healthy behaviors through membership, youth sports and enrichment programs, swim lessons, family programming and more. The following tips are some great ways to incorporate healthier eating habits and increased physical activity into your daily family routine: Eat & Drink Healthy: Make water the drink of choice and encourage everyone to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables by offering two or three servings at every meal. As a family choose a new fruit and veggie every week to taste together. Place a full pitcher of water on the table during meals and allow children to pour their own water. Keep full water bottles available in cars and back packs. Play Every Day/Go Outside: Children should have at least an hour a day of unstructured play outside (when possible) and break a sweat at least three times a week by getting 20 minutes or more of vigorous physical activity. Join your children in games that get your hearts pumping and body moving. Get Together: Eat as a family as frequently as possible. Involve kids in meal planning, preparation and clean up. In addition, take a break from electronics and spend one-to-one time each day together, enjoying one another’s company. Reduce Recreational Screen Time: Time spent in front of a television, computer, tablet, cell phone or video games should be limited to two hours or less per day. Make a family plan to reduce screen time at home (i.e., turn off screens during meals, charge electronics/screens in the kitchen overnight, go for a walk after a meal, set a timer to remind you to power down the screen). Sleep Well: Kids and adults need to keep a regular sleep schedule; unwind together in the evenings by reading a book or listening to soft music to ensure your bodies are preparing for sleep. Kids are growing and need 10-12 hours of healthy sleep per night; adults should aim for seven to eight hours nightly. To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s membership and programs, please contact Brandon Whipple, Senior Program Director, at (570) 828-3116 or bwhipple@gsymca.org, or visit the Y online at www.greaterscrantonymca.org.
University of Scranton Reports 2023 Graduates Careers and Salaries The highest mean salaries reported for class of 2023 undergraduates were in computer science, nursing, finance, mathematics and business analytics. More outcomes are reported in the First Destination Survey. Ninety-nine percent of The University of Scranton’s class of 2023 bachelor-degree graduates, and 100 percent of its post-baccalaureate class of 2023 graduates, reported being successful in their choice of career path within 12 months of graduation. The “First Destination Survey” report by Scranton’s Roche Family Center for Career Development is based on career success data obtained for 85 percent of the undergraduate class and 72 percent of its graduate class. This “knowledge rate,” or percentage of graduates for whom their career outcome is known, exceeds the National Association of College Employers recommended rate of 65 percent six months after graduation. For members of University’s class of 2023 earning a bachelor’s degree, 49 percent of graduates had the goal of obtaining full-time employment and 98 percent of these graduates succeed with that goal. Forty-four percent of graduates had the goal of attending graduate or professional school and 99 percent of graduates successfully achieved that goal. Other graduates were seeking part-time employment or pursued other intentional paths such as a gap year. The average (mean) salary is $61,360, based on the bachelor’s degree graduates that provided salary information. The average salary varied by major. The highest average salaries reported are in computer science ($83,440), nursing ($80,791), finance ($75,961), mathematics ($75,000) and business analytics ($70,800). Geographically, of those employed, 83 percent reported working in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. Eighty-one percent of the undergraduate class of 2023 reported completing at least one experiential learning opportunity during their education at the University, which includes internships, research, student teaching, observations, clinicals, externships and residencies. In addition, 86 percent of the graduates engaged with the Center for Career Development during their time at Scranton. As mentioned, Scranton’s class of 2023 master’s and doctoral degree graduates had a 100 percent overall success rate. The report shows 94 percent of graduates were employed full-time; 3 percent were employed part-time; 2 percent were pursuing additional education; and 1 percent were seeking another goal, such as travel or taking a gap year. The average (mean) salary for 2023 graduate-degree graduates is $89,891, based on the graduates that provided salary information. Salaries reported vary by degree programs. The highest average salaries reported are for graduates with master’s degrees in nurse anesthesia ($213,462), healthcare management MBA ($140,960) and MBA-international business ($107,000). Of those employed, 71 percent are working in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. The surveys over the past three years indicate a significant average salary increase at the graduate degree level. The average salary reported for post-baccalaureate graduates in 2021 was $71,827; $81,045 for class 2022 graduates; and $89,891 for class of 2023 graduates. The Roche Family Center for Career Development is located on the second floor of the Loyola Science Center.
