SACF’s Laura Ducceschi Selected for National Leadership Cohort The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce that its President and CEO, Laura Ducceschi, has been selected to participate in the 2025–26 cohort of the Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs, a national program convened by CFLeads, the country’s premier network of community foundations. The Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) for CEOs is designed to strengthen the strategic leadership of community foundation executives nationwide. Participants engage in intensive peer learning, reflection, and collaboration to advance bold, equity-centered, and community-driven approaches to philanthropy. “It is an honor to be selected to join this distinguished cohort of leaders,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “This program will provide invaluable opportunities to learn from peers nationwide, strengthen our leadership strategies, and deepen how we work with and for our community. I look forward to bringing these insights back to Northeastern Pennsylvania as we continue to advance equity, build connections, and drive lasting impact.” Through the program, Laura will join CEOs from community foundations across the United States to explore emerging challenges, share innovative practices, and strengthen the collective impact of philanthropy in local communities. “Laura’s selection for this national leadership program reflects both her dedication and the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s ongoing commitment to bold, impactful leadership,” said Ellen Burkey, Chair of the Scranton Area Community Foundation Board of Governors. “We are proud to see Laura representing our region and bringing back strategies that will continue to benefit the communities we serve.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation has a 76-year history of serving Northeastern Pennsylvania through philanthropy, community leadership, and collaboration. Laura’s participation in CFLeads’ Executive Leadership Institute represents the Foundation’s continued investment in advancing equity, strengthening civic participation, and building resilient communities across the region. Click here to find more information about the Executive Leadership Institute for CEOs.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Fights Local Hunger With Fundraiser The Scranton Area Community Foundation, in partnership with the City of Scranton and the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, is proud to announce the return of The Heart of Scranton: A Virtual Fundraiser to Help Our Neighbors, taking place now through November 30, 2025. The Heart of Scranton campaign brings together generous donors, caring neighbors, and trusted local nonprofits to address a growing and urgent need: food insecurity. As the cost of living continues to rise and families face the impact of the ongoing federal government shutdown and the potential lapse of food assistance benefits, thousands of residents in Lackawanna County are struggling to put food on the table. According to Feeding America, nearly 33,000 county residents, including many children, are considered food insecure. Donors may choose to support any of the participating organizations individually, or they may make a single gift to the Foundation’s general Heart of Scranton Fund, with all proceeds evenly distributed among the participating organizations. “At the Scranton Area Community Foundation, we see every day how generosity strengthens and sustains our community,” said Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through the Heart of Scranton Virtual Fundraiser, we’re turning that generosity into real results—fueling local organizations on the front lines of hunger to ensure our neighbors have access to food and essential resources. This partnership with the City of Scranton and the United Way reflects what we do best: bringing people and resources together to build a stronger, more resilient community.” One hundred percent of all donations (minus standard credit card processing fees) will go directly to support these organizations, which are doing mission-critical work to combat hunger in the Scranton area. This year’s effort builds on the success of the original Heart of Scranton campaign in 2020, which raised over $180,000 in under 48 hours to provide emergency food assistance during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also continues the Foundation’s ongoing partnership with the City of Scranton to address hunger, including a joint $10,000 investment in 2024 to establish the Lackawanna Food Policy Council Fund, strengthening coordination among local food-access agencies. “Earlier this year, our Hunger Task Force raised the alarm about food security issues in Scranton getting increasingly worse. When times are tough, we know Scranton residents band together to help their neighbors, showing the true heart of this community,” Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti said. “The need for this fundraiser right now isn’t just a reminder of food insecurity during the winter or the holidays. It will also support those around us who may be affected by the pending lapse in food assistance benefits caused by the federal government shutdown.” Click here to find more information.
Treasurer Stacy Garrity: Money Match Letters Sent Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced that more than 107,000 letters will be arriving in mailboxes to inform individuals of unclaimed property headed their way through the Pennsylvania Money Match program. “This is the best kind of mail to send, and I’m thrilled to let Pennsylvanians know that money is coming their way – these letters are real and the checks that will follow are real,” Treasurer Garrity said. “We’re well on our way to returning more than $40 million with Money Match during this first year of the program because this money doesn’t belong to the state, it belongs back in the hands of rightful owners, and Treasury is working nonstop to get the job done.” Checks will follow this batch of letters and will be mailed to owners in mid-December. Pennsylvania Money Match, which passed the House and Senate unanimously and was signed into law as Act 81 of 2024, authorizes Treasury to return certain single-owner properties valued up to $500 automatically. Claims valued at more than $500, that have multiple owners, or other complexities will still need to search, file a claim and provide required supporting documentation. More than one in ten Pennsylvanians is owed some of the $5 billion in unclaimed property being safeguarded by Treasury. The average value of a claim is more than $1,000. Unclaimed property includes things such as dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, forgotten stocks, insurance policies, tangible property like the contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes, and more. To search for unclaimed property visit, patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property. If anyone believes they have received a Money Match letter in error, they can contact Treasury at MoneyMatch@patreasury.gov.
Johnson College Acquires New Facility in Scranton Johnson College, the only two-year technical college in northeastern Pennsylvania, announced it has officially purchased an 8,700-square-foot building at 814 Wyoming Ave. in Scranton. The newly acquired facility will become the future home of the college’s one-year Diesel Preventative Maintenance Technician certificate program, the two-year Diesel Truck Technology associate degree program, and portions of the two-year Automotive Technology associate degree program. The new space will provide enhanced hands-on learning areas for students pursuing careers as transportation technicians. Classes at the facility are expected to begin in spring 2026. “This purchase marks an exciting new chapter for Johnson College,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, president and CEO of Johnson College. “Once updates are complete, the Wyoming Avenue facility will offer enhanced, hands-on learning spaces designed to support student success. We’re proud to continue investing in resources that prepare students for today’s workforce.” The move will also create opportunities on the Scranton campus, located on North Main Avenue, to expand existing programs or introduce new ones that respond to emerging industry trends. Located in a Scranton neighborhood historically connected to the automotive industry, the Wyoming Avenue site will continue that legacy by preparing the next generation of transportation professionals. The new property joins Johnson College’s growing network of educational facilities, which includes its satellite campus at the CAN DO Training Center in Hazle Township and specialized labs at Simplex Homes and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
Misericordia University Rallies Support for Cougar Sports Teams Friends, families, and community members are invited to attend and cheer on the Misericordia Cougars. Supporters can stay up to date on all upcoming home sporting events by visiting the Weekly Home Game Lineup webpage, the best resource for finding out when their favorite Cougar teams are competing on campus. Visitors are encouraged to explore https://www.misericordia.edu/campus-community/athletics to view this week’s schedule and show their support for the Cougars.
Munley Law Announces Return of Matthew Cartwright Pennsylvania personal injury law firm Munley Law is pleased to announce that former U.S. Representative Matthew A. Cartwright (PA-8) has rejoined the firm as Of Counsel following his distinguished 12-year tenure in Congress. Before his congressional service, Cartwright spent 25 years as a Partner at Munley Law. During his legal career, he was inducted into the prestigious International Society of Barristers (2008) and served on the Board of Governors of the American Association for Justice (2009-2012). As Of Counsel, Cartwright will focus on complex personal injury litigation and provide strategic counsel on regulatory and governmental issues.
Wright Center’s Kara Seitzinger Honored in “Fifty Over 50” An employee of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education has been named among Pennsylvania’s most influential leaders over the age of 50. Kara Seitzinger Kara Seitzinger, the executive director of public affairs and advisor to the president and CEO, has been named in City & State Pennsylvania’s prestigious “Fifty Over 50” list. It recognizes prominent and accomplished leaders in the Keystone State’s government, business, media, advocacy, and nonprofit sectors who are over the age of 50. These individuals are honored for their achievements and their continued impact on the commonwealth, according to the publication. Honorees include former U.S. Senator Bob Casey Jr.; Jill Murray, president and chief innovation officer of Lackawanna College; and John Fry, president of Temple University. Seitzinger and the other honorees were recognized during a dinner in Philadelphia on Oct. 28. Since she began working at The Wright Center in 2020, Seitzinger has cultivated partnerships with business and community leaders to strengthen outreach, enhance visibility, and advance The Wright Center’s mission to improve the health and welfare of communities through responsive, whole-person health services for all and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce that is privileged to serve. Seitzinger plays a key role in fostering visibility of The Wright Center’s integrated model of primary care, behavioral health, dental, and recovery services, which are delivered at The Wright Center’s growing network of community health centers across Northeast Pennsylvania. She also leads fundraising efforts for The Wright Center for Patient & Community Engagement. The subsidiary of The Wright Center for Community Health helps the most under-resourced individuals and families in Northeast Pennsylvania, including those experiencing poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, social isolation, or other hardships. In addition to her tireless efforts on behalf of The Wright Center, Seitzinger is also deeply involved in her community. The Scranton native serves on the American Heart Association’s executive leadership board of directors and received its Eastern State Region’s 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award. In 2023, the Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers honored her with the APEX Community Ambassador Award. Seitzinger also serves as a board member of Scranton Tomorrow and the Wyoming Valley Run. To read the “Fifty Over 50” article, go to www.cityandstatepa.com. For more information, visit TheWrightCenter.org or call 570-230-0019.
Geisinger Announces Recipients of Nursing Scholarship and Caring Award Geisinger recently recognized 11 employees who go above and beyond in their dedication to patients at work and in the community with the Caring Award and the Nursing Scholarship Award in honor of Susan M. Robel. “This recognition speaks to our recipients’ exceptional and compassionate patient care, selfless teamwork and thoughtful advocacy within our communities,” said Janet Tomcavage, RN, executive vice president and chief nursing executive at Geisinger. “They lead by example inside and outside the workplace — we’re grateful to have them as part of our Geisinger family.” Created to honor the legacy of Sue Robel, Geisinger’s former chief nursing officer and co-chief patient experience officer, the two awards are presented annually to recognize Geisinger employees’ commitment to providing the highest level of patient care and serving others in their roles at work and in the community. Geisinger’s 2025 recipients of the Nursing Scholarship in honor of Susan M. Robel pose for a group photo with Janet Tomcavage, RN, executive vice president and chief nursing executive at Geisinger. From left to right: Janet Tomcavage; Bobbi Kelder; Nicole Kister; Charlene Dixon; Jenna King; Jessie Learn. Not pictured: Kelli Andrus. The Nursing Scholarship Award in honor of Robel recognizes the significance of lifelong learning in nursing, and rewards those enrolled in nursing school who exemplify what it means to go above and beyond in providing patient care. Scholarship recipients have demonstrated a continued commitment to meeting the highest standards of bedside care and treat patients with the utmost compassion and kindness. Each recipient is awarded $2,000 toward their tuition, funded by the Alice E. Steele Endowment. The 2025 Nursing Scholarship winners are: Kelli Andrus, clinic nurse, ConvenientCare Lock Haven Charlene Dixon, nursing assistant, Geisinger Community Medical Center Bobbi Kelder, clinic nurse, family practice, Geisinger Tunkhannock Jenna King, clinic nurse, ConvenientCare Lewistown Nicole Kister, administrative team coordinator, Geisinger Medical Center Jessie Learn, clinic nurse, pulmonary medicine, Geisinger Medical Center Geisinger’s 2025 recipients of the Caring Award in honor of Susan M. Robel pose for a group photo with Greg Burke, M.D., chief patient experience officer at Geisinger. From left to right: Dr. Burke; Katelin Kukowski; Christine Zanghi; Angela Collins; Elizabeth Pepen. Not pictured: Susan Lamont. The Caring Award recognizes Geisinger employees who are dedicated to caring for others in the workplace and beyond. Like Robel, who defined collegiality and was an exemplary colleague to all, these people demonstrate a steadfast commitment to serving others and are incredible advocates in our communities. They inspire others with their compassion, thoughtfulness and selflessness. Nominated by their peers and selected by the award committee, winners receive $500 in cash and $500 to donate to their charity of choice. The 2025 Caring Award winners are: Angela Collins, administrative assistant, Geisinger Medical Center Katelin Kukowski, ophthalmology technician, Geisinger Healthplex CenterPoint Susan Lamont, clinical RN supervisor, ophthalmology, Geisinger Medical Center Muncy Elizabeth Pepen, certified medical assistant, CommunityCare Hazleton Christine Zanghi, anesthesiologist, Geisinger Healthplex State College
Wayne Bank Announces the Hiring of Donald Sutton Jim Donnelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wayne Bank, is pleased to announce the hiring of Donald (“Don”) Sutton as Vice President and Information Technology Manager. “I am thrilled to welcome Don to the Wayne Bank team,” said Donnelly. “His extensive experience in the IT field, combined with his passion for innovation and leadership make him a tremendous asset to our organization. With his expertise, we will continue to advance our technology initiatives and elevate the experience for our customers and employees.” As Vice President and Information Technology Manager, Don oversees the Bank’s IT Department, leads strategic technology initiatives, and ensures the continued stability, security, and growth of the bank’s information systems. His responsibilities include managing day-to-day IT operations, implementing technology enhancements, and mentoring staff to support professional development and operational excellence. Don brings 28 years of experience in the information technology field, including leadership roles in network management, cybersecurity, and systems integration across both the financial and corporate sectors. Don is actively involved in his community, volunteering as the live stream coordinator for the Fall Music Festival at Dorflinger and the Spring Thaw Fundraiser, where he supports local nonprofit initiatives through technology and media production.
Johnson College To Offer CDL Training Availability In response to the regional and national demand for CDL truck drivers, Johnson College, in partnership with Road Runner CDL Academy, offers its Class A CDL Driver Training program at two convenient locations: Road Runner CDL Academy at 6 S. Keyser Ave., Taylor, and Johnson College’s Hazleton campus at 370 Maplewood Drive, located inside the Humboldt Industrial Park in Hazle Township. This 160-hour program, available at both locations, prepares students to inspect and operate tractor-trailers and take on the responsibilities of a professional driver on the road and at pickup and delivery sites. The curriculum emphasizes vehicle inspections, defensive driving, range maneuvers, motor carrier safety regulations (DOT 380–397), trip planning, cargo handling, size and weight laws, general maintenance procedures, hours of service, and accident prevention. The training complies with the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and includes a certificate for entry-level drivers. Participants can complete the program and obtain their CDL in as little as four weeks. To learn more or to enroll in the Class A CDL Driver Training program, visit johnson.edu/continuing-ed/cdl or contact the WAVE Department at wave@johnson.edu or 570-702-8979.
