The University of Scranton Hosts Data Science Competition High School Students Participate in Data Science Competition High School students from Carbondale Area, Mid Valley, Scranton Prep and Valley View participated in The University of Scranton’s inaugural Data Science Day Competition. Supported by a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant awarded to University mathematics professor Joseph Klobusicky, Ph.D., the interactive competition included a tutorial introduction to data science and the computer software that would be used during the competition. The day also included a luncheon keynote address by Melinda Kleczynski, Ph.D., a post-doctoral scholar at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and remarks from Carolyn Barry, Ph.D., dean of Scranton’s College of Arts and Sciences. University students majoring in mathematics and other fields assisted with the competition. The high school students competed in an individual and a doubles division. In the individual division, Scranton Prep seniors Ethan Fenner (1st place), Vincent You (2nd place), and Ryan Flaim (3rd place) were recognized. Pictured from left are Ryan Flaim, Vincent You, Ethan Fenner, and Dr. Klobusicky. In the doubles division, sophomores from Mid Valley Secondary Center Giada Vagni, Olyphant, and Zackary Buza, Throop, came in first place. Seniors from Scranton Prep Logan Dixon, Factoryville, and Sam DeNaples, Moscow, placed second. Data Science is a growing, much-in-demand field. A knowledge of probability and statistics is crucial, as they are considered the “mathematical back bone” of data analysis, according to Dr. Klobusicky. For graduates of Scranton’s class of 2023, those majoring in data analysis had one of the highest salaries reported ($70,800) in its post-graduate survey. Additional information about undergraduate programs in mathematics at The University of Scranton can be found on the department’s webpage.
Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant from PPL Foundation The Greater Scranton YMCA is pleased to announce it has received a $5,000 grant from the PPL Foundation. These funds will support the Y’s Summer Scholars Program, a free six-week summer learning program. The goal of Summer Scholars is to prevent summer learning loss for children from low- income families through a combination of literacy instruction (using the Four Blocks Model), enrichment activities aligned to literacy instruction and positive youth development opportunities. The program targets struggling readers and serves rising first, second and third grade students attending the Dunmore and Mid Valley School Districts. “The Greater Scranton YMCA is so grateful to the PPL Foundation for their generosity,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO. “Thanks in part to this grant award, and additional support from local foundations, businesses, and proceeds from the Annual Harry P. McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament, our YMCA will continue providing the Summer Scholars Program for struggling readers in our community at no cost to families. It’s because of the commitment of community partners like the PPL Foundation that we are able to serve those in need.” For more information about the Summer Scholars Program, contact Helen Cruser, Education Director, at hcruser@gsymca.org.
Urban Co-Works Celebrates its First Year New Downtown Scranton Coworking Space Now Home to Tech Companies, Non Profits, Consultants, Remote Workers and More. Urban Co-Works is proud to celebrate its first year of operations at 116 North Washington Avenue in downtown Scranton. This industrial-chic coworking space has become a vibrant hub for businesses, non-profits, consultants, remote workers, and others embracing flexible work styles. “Since opening in December of last year, we’ve welcomed a diverse group of professionals to our space,” said Urban Co-Works CEO Jeffrey Goronkin. “Our members include attorneys, healthcare professionals, digital marketing consultants, and more. Companies such as PennFoster, Corning, Giga Power, and Intuit have also joined us, making Urban Co-Works a true melting pot of talent and expertise.” Over the past year, Urban Co-Works has grown to include more than 80 businesses, offering flexible office solutions tailored to their individual and corporate needs. “Whether it’s a full-time office membership or occasional use, we have affordable plans to fit every professional’s needs,” Goronkin added. Unlike traditional office leases, Urban Co-Works offers month-to-month memberships and a host of amenities, including high-speed internet, fully furnished offices, complimentary beverages, printing services, and more. Nicole Reyes, CEO of Insight Marketing Executives said, “We chose to establish our office at Urban Co-Works because of its vibrant community and flexibility. Over the past year, we’ve seen firsthand how this space supports our entrepreneurial drive to grow. Access to shared spaces like meeting rooms, the coworking area, and other amenities has been instrumental in scaling our business. We also enjoy the opportunities they make to build valuable relationships with other like-minded professionals.” Jacquie Pershing, Licensed Clinical Social Worker said, “Starting my private practice, I knew I wanted a space that would keep me connected to other professionals—because let’s be real, private practice can get a bit lonely sometimes! That’s when I found Urban Co-Works, and I couldn’t be happier. The people here are so friendly, and I absolutely love the opportunity to network with other professionals. I look forward to engaging with them throughout the day and breaking up my routine with light, casual conversations. Whether it’s chatting about the weather, swapping recommendations for new movies, or hearing about the latest hiking spots, these little coffee breaks in the morning are a highlight. My office space is perfect, and the whole atmosphere at Urban Co-Works just feels so welcoming. I always look forward to walking in and getting started!” The Scranton location was made possible through a collaborative effort with Mayor Paige G. Cognetti, the City of Scranton, and Charlie Jefferson, owner of 116 North Washington Avenue and Urban Co-Works. “Urban Co-Works is committed to providing a top-tier workspace that fosters community and collaboration,” said Goronkin. “We are excited to offer professionals in Scranton a unique coworking experience designed to help them thrive and succeed.” KEY FEATURES AT URBAN CO-WORKS 57 Modern Offices: Urban Co-Works boasts 57 fully furnished offices, providing professionals with a private and comfortable workspace tailored to their needs. Training Room: The facility includes a dedicated training room equipped with large screen TV’s, erasable writing boards and other technology, ideal for workshops, seminars, and corporate training sessions. Multiple Meeting Spaces: Members have access to various meeting spaces designed for collaboration and brainstorming sessions, fostering a creative and productive atmosphere. Privacy Pods: For those moments when focus and concentration are paramount or to jump on a Zoom call, Urban Co-Works offers privacy pods, providing a quiet and distraction-free workspace. Expansive Coworking Space: The coworking space is equipped with 20 workstations with a modern adjacent kitchen, offering an open and flexible environment for individuals by day and networking events in the evening. Other amenities include high speed internet, a copy center and mail room, member-only networking events, coffee and tea, self-service snack station and more. MEMBERSHIPS Urban Co-Works offers a variety of memberships to accommodate the various needs of today’s workforce. Virtual Mailing: Ideal for remote professionals, this membership level provides a prestigious business address and mail handling services. Coworking: Access to shared workspaces on a part-time to full-time basis, allowing flexibility for those who need a professional environment without a long-term commitment. Private Offices: Fully furnished private offices provide professionals with a dedicated and personalized workspace on a month-to-month basis. Conference Room by the Hour: Need a professional meeting space? Urban Co-Works offers conference room rentals on an hourly basis, ensuring organizations and professionals have access to the facilities when they need them.
Maternal and Family Health Services Awards Scholarships to Lackawanna College Maternal and Family Health Services (MFHS) is proud to announce that two participants in the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program have received scholarships to attend Lackawanna College. Beginning in 2018, Lackawanna College has provided full-tuition scholarships for clients from MFHS who are enrolled in the NFP program in an effort to continue to provide affordable, high quality educational opportunities to the residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We are thrilled to see our Nurse-Family Partnership participants taking the next step in their educational journeys,” said Maria Montoro Edwards, President and CEO of MFHS “This scholarship program provides an incredible opportunity for these women to build a strong foundation for their futures, which will benefit not only them but also their children and the broader community.” This initiative aims to support NFP mothers in their educational and career aspirations, empowering them to build brighter futures for themselves and their families. This is a significant step forward in ensuring that NFP mothers have access to higher education, which is key to fostering economic stability and improving overall family health. The Nurse-Family Partnership is a renowned program that pairs mothers with registered nurses who provide guidance and support through pregnancy and the first two years of the child’s life. The program has been proven to improve maternal and child health, increase economic self-sufficiency, and foster long-term positive outcomes for families. “At Lackawanna College, we believe in the transformative power of education to create brighter futures for individuals, families, and communities. As a former board president of MFHS, I am especially proud to see this partnership continue its legacy of offering scholarships to students participating in the Nurse-Family Partnership. This initiative not only supports the professional growth of these students, but also our shared commitment to improving healthcare and fostering success for families in our community” said Dr. Jill Murray, President of Lackawanna College. For more information about Maternal and Family Health Services and the Nurse-Family Partnership program, please visit https://mfhs.org/services/nurse-family-partnership Photo L to R: Denise Larson, AVP Enrollment Management and Student Success, Lackawanna College Maria Montoro Edwards, PhD, President and CEO, Maternal and Family Health Services Stephanie Cox, Scholarship Recipient Maria Stefano, Scholarship Recipient Cheryl Kramer, MS, RN, NFP Nurse Home Visitor, Maternal and Family Health Services AnnMarie Jennings, BSN, RN, Nurse Supervisor NFP, Maternal and Family Health Services Ann Jones, BSN,RN, Director of NFP, Maternal and family Health Services
Woodloch Selected for Nation’s First Onsite Respite Facility Two long-standing partners dedicated to providing relief and renewal for those affected by cancer are joining forces to create a transformative space – the nation’s first onsite respite facility, For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Center at Woodloch. Projected to open in 2026, this innovative center will serve more than 4,000 people annually and redefine cancer care in Pennsylvania. For nearly two decades, Montgomery County-based For Pete’s Sake Cancer RespiteFoundation has helped families take a break from cancer through meaningful, restorative experiences. Similarly, Woodloch Resort, renowned for its world-class hospitality in the Pocono Mountains, has offered family-focused getaways for over 65 years. Since 2011, the organizations have collaborated to support patients, loved ones and caregivers navigating the cancer journey. This joint venture consolidates all For Pete’s Sake’s services into one signature location in Hawley. A $3.5 million grant through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Capital Assistance Program brings the project closer to its $25 million fundraising goal, complementing significant contributions already secured. “So many of us have been touched by this terrible disease,” said Sen. Lisa Baker, a project advocate. “This infusion of state dollars is a significant investment that will help leverage the corporate, foundation, and private donations required to establish this premier complex right here in northeastern Pennsylvania.” Woodloch owner Bob Kiesendahl, a cancer survivor, understands the value of reconnecting with family and self during difficult times. “Since Woodloch’s inception, our purpose and ‘why’ has been to make the world a better place,” Kiesendahl said. “Our partnership with For Pete’s Sake was forged after our first conversation, and our shared mission has strengthened our bond over the last 13 years, bringing us to this milestone moment.” Set on 32 acres, the 34,000-square-foot campus will feature amenities designed with input from oncology professionals, addressing the emotional, financial, spiritual and physical challenges of cancer in a safe, restorative environment. Features include a dining room serving 60,000 meals annually, an art room, a chapel, yoga space, a swimming pool for water therapy and nature trails. Groundbreaking is scheduled for spring 2025, with completion in 2026. For Pete’s Sake serves adults with all cancer types, partnering with hospitals and cancer centers such as Penn Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network, St. Luke’s, Jefferson Health, Allegheny Health Network, Alliance Cancer Care, Geisinger, Fox Chase and UPMC. Patients must be nominated by their oncology team to participate. Jennifer Coleman, diagnosed with cancer in 2023, experienced the program firsthand with her family. “At that point, we didn’t know if I would respond to the treatments,” Jennifer said. “When faced with such uncertainty, it was comforting to have a beautiful place to be together, away from all the chaos of cancer, and sit with my husband simply watching our kids playing in the sun, enjoying the lake and laughing again.” A year later, Jennifer and her daughter Corrine are giving back as facilitators for new families, appreciating the profound impact of the program from both perspectives. “Our outcomes data proves that respite makes a significant therapeutic impact on patients, caregivers, and their families, strengthening communication, relationships, resilience, and quality of life,” said Marci Schankweiler, founder and CEO of For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation. “We are profoundly grateful to everyone making this dream a reality, including Gov. Shapiro, Sens. Baker and Brown, and Reps. Fritz and Olsommer.” For more information on how to get involved, please visit www.RespiteTransformed.org.
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Mortgage Manager Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Deborah Saracino has been promoted to VP, Residential Mortgage Manager. In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Debbie’s extensive experience and leadership in mortgage lending are tremendous assets to our team.” He continued, “Her knowledge and commitment to excellence will greatly contribute to our success and help us achieve our strategic objectives, ensuring we continue to deliver outstanding service to our clients.” As VP, Residential Mortgage Manager, Saracino will be responsible for the comprehensive management and oversight of residential mortgage operations. This includes the production, processing, closing, and servicing of mortgage loans. She will ensure the seamless execution of all phases of the mortgage lifecycle, maintaining high standards of accuracy, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Currently residing in Penn Lake, PA, she brings over 30 years of experience in mortgage lending. Her extensive career includes roles as a mortgage loan officer and as a mortgage department manager, showcasing her comprehensive expertise in the industry. In commenting on her new role at the bank, Saracino noted, “My entire career is about making the dream of homeownership a reality. The joy I have witnessed in doing so, is amazing.” Outside of the Bank, she is on the Board of Directors of the Penn Lake Association. Additionally, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two grandchildren.
Scranton Area Community Foundation Receives Donation from Minooka Subaru Minooka Subaru recently presented the Scranton Area Community Foundation with a check in the amount of $47,647 which comes from their latest Share the Love® event where the Scranton Area Community Foundation was selected as the hometown charity for Minooka Subaru’s customers to support during the event. This is the sixth year that Minooka Subaru has partnered with the Scranton Area Community Foundation as the hometown charity to support. To date, Minooka Subaru has donated over $200,000 to support the Minooka Subaru Fund of the Scranton Area Community Foundation which provides charitable support to the community. (from left to right): Pat Corbett (Minooka Subaru), Laura Ducceschi (Scranton Area Community Foundation), Joe Corbett (Minooka Subaru), Mike Shields (Minooka Subaru).
Allied Services Urgently Requests Assistance for Dog Allied Services is reaching out to the community for urgent assistance regarding a 6-year-old, 40-pound male dog named Odin. Odin is currently in need of immediate rehoming and medical attention after the recent passing of his owner. Odin, a friendly dog who has never been to a veterinarian and is not vaccinated, has developed a rash on his back and legs. His family, located in Nanticoke, PA, is unable to provide the necessary care or financial support for his medical needs. While the Luzerne County SPCA has generously offered assistance with food, the family is looking for help in securing a caretaker, foster, or permanent home for Odin as soon as possible. The family is willing to transport Odin to any location in the NEPA region and is seeking any available resources to cover his care and rehoming fees. Financial assistance is available to offset adoption or care costs for those able to help. If you can offer assistance or know of potential solutions, please contact Laurie at Allied Services’ Pet Peace of Mind program at 570-290-3285 (call or text). We appreciate your dedication to animal welfare and your continued support of the animals in our community. The NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative is reaching out to the community for urgent assistance regarding a 6-year-old, 40-pound male dog named Odin. Odin is currently in need of immediate rehoming and medical attention after the recent passing of his owner. Odin, a friendly dog who has never been to a veterinarian and is not vaccinated, has developed a rash on his back and legs. His family, located in Nanticoke, PA, is unable to provide the necessary care or financial support for his medical needs. While the Luzerne County SPCA has generously offered assistance with food, the family is looking for help in securing a caretaker, foster, or permanent home for Odin as soon as possible. The family is willing to transport Odin to any location in the NEPA region and is seeking any available resources to cover his care and rehoming fees. Financial assistance is available to offset adoption or care costs for those able to help. If you can offer assistance or know of potential solutions, please contact Laurie at Allied Services’ Pet Peace of Mind program at 570-290-3285 (call or text). We appreciate your dedication to animal welfare and your continued support of the animals in our community.
Johnson College Now Enrolling for Medical Assistant Program Johnson College is now enrolling for its Medical Assistant program at its Scranton campus. The program will run Mondays through Wednesdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning January 6, 2025. This program prepares students to assist physicians by performing functions related to the clinical aspects of a medical office. Functions include preparing patients for examination, treatment, routine laboratory procedures, pharmacology, and taking and documenting vital signs. Plus, students will learn the fundamentals of phlebotomy and venipunctures, anatomy & physiology, and medical terminology encountered in the field. Students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties required of a medical assistant. The class fee is $6,000 and is approved by PA CareerLink for those eligible for funding through their local CareerLink. To learn more or to enroll in the Medical Assistant course, visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-ed/medical-assistant/ or contact the College’s Continuing Education department at continuinged@johnson.edu.
Misericordia University to Honor Dr. Mary McAleese at Winter 2024 Commencement Misericordia University is proud to announce that Dr. Mary McAleese, the first President of Ireland from Northern Ireland and a renowned advocate for peace and social justice, will be the commencement honoree at the university’s Winter Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, December 15, 2024. McAleese will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree during the ceremony. Dr. McAleese served as President from 1997 to 2011, during which she championed the theme of “Building Bridges.” Her presidency was marked by significant contributions to peace and reconciliation in Ireland, including the historic state visit of H.M. Queen Elizabeth II in 2011. With a rich background as a barrister, journalist, and educator, Dr. McAleese has made lasting impacts in the fields of law and social justice. Born in Belfast in 1951, Dr. McAleese was the eldest of nine children and grew up in a challenging environment during The Troubles. Her commitment to social justice led her to co-found several organizations, including Belfast Women’s Aid and the Campaign for Homosexual Law Reform. She has authored multiple books, including “Reconciled Being: Love in Chaos” and “Here’s the Story: A Memoir.” In addition to her presidential duties, Dr. McAleese has held prominent academic positions, including Reid Professor of Criminal Law at Trinity College Dublin and Chair of the Von Hugel Institute at Cambridge University. She is a recognized leader in higher education, having chaired the European Union Commission’s High Level Group on the Modernization of Higher Education. Misericordia University looks forward to celebrating Dr. McAleese’s achievements and contributions to society during the commencement ceremony. It will be livestreamed on YouTube beginning at 2:00 p.m. A schedule of commencement-related information and events can be found by clicking here.
