The University of Scranton Among Greenest Colleges The Princeton Review listed The University of Scranton among just 511 colleges in the world “selected for their exceptional programs, policies and practices related to sustainability and the environment” for inclusion in its 2025 edition of its “Guide to Green Colleges,” which was published online in October. This is the sixth year that Scranton has made this listing. The Princeton Review analyzed more than 25 data points to choose the colleges for this year’s guide based on its 2023–2024 survey of administrators about their institutions’ sustainability-related policies, practices and programs, as well as surveys of students attending those colleges about their “green” campus experiences. Banner of Earth Day at the DeNaples Building “We are seeing substantive interest among college applicants in attending green colleges,” said Rob Franek, editor-in-chief of The Princeton Review. According to the Princeton Review, 61 percent of the high school student participating in their 2024 “College Hopes and Worries Survey” indicated that “having information about a college’s commitment to the environment would affect their decision to apply to or attend the school.” The Princeton Review also noted that, as a group, “the schools in the 2025 Edition of the Guide to Green Colleges have impressive sustainability-related statistics: 28 percent of their energy comes from clean and renewable sources; 46 percent of their waste is diverted from incinerators or solid-waste landfills; 98 percent offer a sustainability focused undergraduate major or degree; and 100 percent have a sustainability officer.” Scranton’s long-established sustainability efforts include academics, facilities and community education and outreach. Scranton has infused issues of sustainability in courses across the curriculum, ranging from theology, to business, to the natural sciences, to education, as well as other disciplines. Scranton uses numerous “green” procedures in building maintenance practices, as well as in building design and construction. Scranton currently has three Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified buildings: Leahy Hall, the Loyola Science Center and the DeNaples Center, which became the city’s first LEED certified structure in 2008. Robert S. and Marilyn A. Weiss Hall, currently under construction, is design intended to meet silver LEED certification requirements. In addition, inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical titled “On Care for Our Common Home,” the University is participating in a seven-year initiative to be recognized by the Vatican as a Laudato Si’ University. To be designated as a Laudato Si University, colleges must evaluate comprehensively current environmental and sustainability programs, then improve and develop further initiatives to address seven goals outlined by the Pope. The goals to be addressed are: to respond to the cries of the Earth; to respond to the call of the poor; to apply ecological economics; to adopt sustainable lifestyles; to implement ecological education programs; to develop ecological spirituality efforts; and to develop of programs to address community resilience and empowerment. In addition to its “Guide to Green Colleges,” The Princeton Review has listed Scranton in its “Best Colleges” guidebooks for 23 consecutive years, also ranking Scranton among the nation’s “Best Science Lab Facilities” (No. 17) for the eighth year.
The Wright Center Partners with Friendship House The Wright Center for Community Health is partnering with Friendship House to improve access to responsive and inclusive whole-person primary health services, especially for individuals with complex mental health and/or substance use disorder needs. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, The Wright Center will offer primary health services at Friendship House’s new Whole Person Care Center, 200 Wyoming Ave., Suite 250, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The new location will begin by opening from noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, providing a range of services such as checkups, physicals, screenings, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries. These services will be available to individuals of all ages, regardless of their insurance status, ZIP code, or ability to pay. Patients do not need to be clients of Friendship House to receive care at The Wright Center’s new location. “We are grateful and deeply honored to collaborate with Friendship House at its new state-of-the-art Whole Person Care Center,” said Dr. Linda Thomas-Hemak, president and CEO of The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education. “We specifically thank Alex Hazzouri, president and CEO, and his team, as well as the governing board, for their vision to promote unprecedented collaboration that led to our welcomed invitation to be part of this wonderful development for our community in the heart of downtown Scranton. “This exciting and important partnership allows The Wright Center to enrich and extend the delivery of our noble mission to improve the health and welfare of our communities through inclusive and responsive health services and the sustainable renewal of an inspired, competent workforce that is privileged to serve. By improving access to essential primary health care services for individuals who come to Friendship House, we will continue to enhance the overall health and well-being of our shared community.” Friendship House provides support to children, adolescents, and adults facing developmental disabilities, emotional or behavioral challenges, or the effects of trauma from loss, abuse, or neglect. In March 2022, the nonprofit acquired the two-story, 22,000-square-foot facility, which spans the Davidow Building at 200-216 Wyoming Ave., and the former Murray Building at 413-415 Biden St. The new center’s goal is to integrate mental health, substance use disorder, and physical health services, improving health outcomes while optimizing the use of resources. Along with The Wright Center’s primary health services, Friendship House will offer mental health and substance use disorder services, and The Prescription Center will provide pharmacy services. “This integrated model will enhance care coordination and improve patient care outcomes, especially in terms of chronic medical condition management,” said Kathleen Barry, deputy chief operating officer of The Wright Center for Community Health. “We’re thrilled to be able to work closely with Friendship House, one of our great community partners, and enhance our ability to address the complex health and social needs of patients in our communities.” Hazzouri noted that his organization has been in discussions with The Wright Center for several years about a collaboration. The Wright Center and Friendship House treat patients of all ages, income levels, and insurance statuses. “Thousands of people live, work, and study in downtown Scranton every day,” Hazzouri said, noting that 17 of the county’s 22 bus routes pass by the new Whole Person Care Center. “The accessibility will help make the center integral to a healthy Scranton and a healthy Lackawanna County.” At a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the new facility on Friday, Oct. 24, U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright presented Hazzouri and Dr. Thomas-Hemak with a certificate of Congressional recognition for opening the Whole Person Care Center. “Every person in the community deserves access to health care,” he said. “Thank you for removing barriers to access. I applaud your collaborative efforts.”
Indraloka Founder Indra Lahiri Receives Carole Noon Award In the worldwide animal sanctuary field, there is no honor more distinguished than the Carole Noon Award given by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). The award recognizes the “individual who embodies and puts into practice the GFAS philosophy of vision, dedication, and excellence in animal care at sanctuaries.“ This year’s recipient, Indra Lahiri, PhD, is the founder of Indraloka in Dalton, Pennsylvania. Dr. Lahiri has successfully launched and grown Indraloka into one of the leading farmed animal sanctuaries globally. Under her leadership, the sanctuary has rescued over 2,500 animals and established groundbreaking initiatives that have notably influenced the field of animal rescue and sanctuary management. She also spearheaded the creation of the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic which provides low-cost care to local animal rescues and income-qualified households in the NEPA community and assists communities with Trap, Neuter & Release programs to help manage feral cat populations. Another innovative program Dr. Lahiri created, “Indraloka Heals,” launched this summer with its “Resilient Counselors Mastery Series” that provided support and resources to Scranton-area school guidance counselors. “I am humbled and grateful, however, I cannot take credit for this award. The entire Indraloka team works so hard every day, pouring love and energy into whomever needs it most — each one is really deserving of this honor,” Dr. Lahiri says. “This award is also a testament to our community and the support we receive from individuals, businesses, visitors, and volunteers.” GFAS is the worldwide leader in accreditation programs for animal sanctuaries, assessing facilities against a robust set of operational and animal care standards, including species-specific standards for elephants, great apes, big cats, horses, farmed animals, and others. “I feel privileged to be on Indra’s board of directors,” says Olympic medalist (Cycling, London 2012) Dotsie Bausch. “Indra is unparalleled in her dedication to saving the lives of the voiceless and with her rigorous work ethic and the restorative hope she carries, she will always serve as a true champion of compassion to those who need her most. No one deserves this honor more than my friend and one of my mentors, Indra Lahiri.” As Indraloka prepares for its biggest fundraiser of the year — ThanksLiving, a feast honoring birds — the sanctuary hopes to get the word out that Indraloka is much more than an animal sanctuary. It is a place of hope, healing, fun, and community for people too. Dr. Lahiri is available for interviews.
NEPIRC Promotes Professional Development Training for Manufacturers Browse NEPIRC’s training catalog to find your next professional development training program The Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) offers world-class professional development training for manufacturers delivered by manufacturing experts. NEPIRC’s training courses and workshops provide new skills, fresh insights and networking opportunities that can help manufacturers meet everyday challenges and achieve long-term goals. Browse NEPIRC’s Training Catalog to learn more about the training programs NEPIRC offers and see which ones are upcoming. You can also easily register for a program directly through the Catalog. Questions? Email Info@NEPIRC.com. https://nepirc.com/wp-content/uploads/24-25-NEPIRC-Training-Catalog.pdf
Inner Harmony Wellness Launches Mindfulness Program in Schools Dr. Peter Amato to Lead Initiative Promoting Mental Health, Wellness, and Drug & Alcohol Guidance The Inner Harmony Group, a leader in holistic health and wellness, is proud to announce the launch of a transformative new program that will bring social emotional awareness and mindfulness education to public school districts across Pennsylvania. Spearheaded by Dr. Peter Amato, the esteemed founder of Inner Harmony Wellness Center & The Inner Harmony Group, this initiative aims to enhance mental health, overall wellness, and provide crucial guidance on drug and alcohol issues for students. With the growing awareness of the importance of mental health and the rising concerns about substance abuse among young people, and emotional burnout of those working within the school system, this program is a timely and critical addition to the educational landscape. Dr. Amato, a recognized authority in the field of mindfulness and integrative medicine, will be at the forefront of this initiative, delivering expert training to students, teachers, and administrators. “Schools are the heart of our communities, and it’s essential that we equip our young people with the tools they need to thrive both mentally and physically,” said Dr. Peter Amato. “Through mindfulness practices, we can help students manage stress, make healthier decisions, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives. I am honored to partner with Pennsylvania’s public schools to make a positive impact on the future of our youth.” This initiative began with the Hanover Area School District (HASD) who have already embraced this program with enthusiasm. This collaboration is in its early stages, and HASD is committed to ensuring that all elementary students benefit from the mindfulness practices offered by Inner Harmony Group. The program will encompass a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the needs of each school district, focusing on: Mindfulness Training: Techniques to help students cultivate awareness, reduce anxiety, and improve focus in the classroom and beyond. Mental Health Support: Strategies for recognizing and addressing mental health challenges, promoting resilience and emotional well-being. Drug & Alcohol Guidance: Educational sessions aimed at prevention, informed decision-making, and support for students at risk. Inner Harmony Wellness has long been at the forefront of holistic health for almost 30 years, and this new initiative is a natural extension of the organization’s mission to foster wellness in all aspects of life. The program will launch in select school districts with plans for statewide expansion in the coming years. For more information about the program or to inquire about bringing mindfulness education to your school district, please visit www.innerharmonywellness.com or contact Dr. Steve Szydlowski at at 570-319-6073.
Geisinger Changes Anesthetic to Reduce Carbon Footprint In a continued effort to reduce its carbon footprint, Geisinger will stop using the anesthetic gas, Desflurane, for surgical cases due to its significant environmental impact. The elimination of desflurane will not impact patient safety as there are equally safe alternatives, according to Matthew Desciak, M.D., chair of Geisinger’s Anesthesiology Department. While desflurane does offer some benefits, such as clearing patients’ systems quickly, it’s a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential more than 2,500 times that of carbon dioxide. “Discontinuing the use of desflurane will have the largest impact of our green initiatives,” Desciak said. “Using this agent at a typical flow rate for eight hours has the equivalent environmental impact as driving a car from Danville to Mexico.” In place of desflurane, Geisinger will emphasize the use of anesthesia gases with lower global warming potential and focus on using the minimal amount of these gases. This will allow the system to provide the same level of safe patient care with a lower overall environmental impact. In 2023, the department joined seven other health systems including Kaiser Permanente to look for ways to reduce department waste while still offering world-class care to patients in central Pennsylvania. This initiative is already in place at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and will roll out systemwide throughout the rest of 2024.
The Honesdale National Bank Promotes Landon Firmstone Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced Landon Firmstone has been promoted to Cash Management Specialist. In making the announcement Sheridan stated, “Landon’s dedication to continuous learning and his ability to foster strong client relationships have been reflective of our mission and HNB culture.” He continued, “We are confident that he will bring the same level of excellence and commitment to his new role, contributing significantly to our team’s success.” As Cash Management Specialist, Firmstone will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Cash Management sector. This includes managing customer interactions, servicing and installing equipment, and ensuring customers are matched with the most suitable products for their needs. He is a graduate of Western Wayne High School and has received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management degree from Marywood University. Firmstone currently resides in Waymart, PA, and began his career in the financial industry with The Honesdale National Bank in October 2023. He was previously the Management Trainee, an experience that allowed him to learn extensively and form relationships with fellow employees and customers. In commenting on his new role at the bank, Firmstone noted, “I have learned so much about all the banking industry and have formed great relationships with my colleagues. HNB has a fantastic atmosphere, and it is evident that everyone is on the same team. All employees are always willing to help each other and make you feel invited no matter which office you are in. I feel as if I have the groundwork to have a long career here at HNB.” Outside of the Bank, he is a member of the Honesdale Area Jaycees and is also the current Tournament Director for Honest Anglers. Additionally, he enjoys hunting, fishing and golfing in his free time.
Sordoni Construction Announces New President Todd Ward joins Sordoni Construction Services, Inc. as President on October 21, 2024. Todd worked for 2 years at Hitt Contracting and spent the last 24+ years with Hess Construction, a family-owned commercial contractor located in the Baltimore Washington Metropolitan Region. He began his career at Hess as a project engineer where he quickly demonstrated his technical expertise and leadership skills. Over the years, he took on increasing levels of responsibility, ultimately earning the position of Senior Vice President of Operations. His journey reflects his dedication, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of the construction industry. When asked why he chose to join the Sordoni team, he responded that “It was Sordoni’s rich history of innovation and commitment to excellence. It is very inspiring to be part of a legacy that has made a significant impact in the industry for over a century.” “On behalf of the Board of Directors we’re thrilled to have Todd Ward join the Sordoni team.” said Bill Sordoni, Chairman of the Board. “His background, experience and leadership style are the perfect fit for our business both now and as we move into the future. We look forward to supporting Todd and our incredible team in this next chapter of the Sordoni story.”
The Honesdale National Bank Welcomes New Mortgage Advisor Thomas E. Sheridan Jr., President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, announced MariBeth Valada has joined HNB as a Mortgage Advisor. In making the statement, Sheridan noted, “We are excited to welcome MariBeth, who brings a diverse background and a strong commitment to building relationships with clients in Luzerne County.” He continued, “Her passion for customer satisfaction and community engagement aligns perfectly with HNB’s mission, and we look forward to the positive impact she will have on our team and our clients.” Currently residing in Laflin, PA, she brings a diverse background to HNB, including roles as a Property Manager and Administrative Assistant. She also held a New York State Real Estate Agent license and was a New York State Notary Public and currently obtaining her PA license. In this role, she is responsible for working with borrowers and helping them through the loan process from pre-qualification to closing. She will actively network with local real estate companies, realtors, attorneys, and others to establish positive working relationships. Additionally, she will participate in local events to market and expand the HNB brand in Luzerne County. In describing her recent move to HNB, Valada said, “I am excited to be working for an established organization that is deeply committed to both customer and employee satisfaction. It’s inspiring to be part of a team that prioritizes building strong relationships with clients while also fostering a supportive and empowering workplace culture. I look forward to contributing to this positive environment and helping to further the organization’s mission in the community.”Top of Form In her free time, she enjoys traveling; practicing yoga and Pilates; walking Carmine, her beagle mix; and spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren. She also loves going out and supporting all the great local restaurants, savoring the diverse culinary experiences in her area.
NRCI Names Tribute to Courage Honoree The Board of Ambassadors will honor Peter J Danchak as the 2024 Tribute to Courage Honoree at their upcoming Spirit of Hope Celebration set for Friday, November 15, 2024, at Mohegan Pennsylvania. Peter J. Danchak is the Regional President of the Northeast PA region of PNC Bank. Danchak joined PNC Bank in 1984 and has held various positions of responsibility in Corporate Banking. He was named Regional President of the Northeast PA Market of PNC Bank in January 2001. Active in the community, Danchak currently serves as Chairman of AllOne Charities Foundation and Co-Chair of the Scranton Plan. He serves on the Board of Directors of AllOne Foundation, the Highmark Regional Advisory Board and the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce. In October of 2020, he was appointed to the Early Learning Investment Commission Emeritus Advisory Council. He also previously served as a member of the Board of Directors of the ARC of Northeastern Pennsylvania Foundation, Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Luzerne Foundation, the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute, the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, King’s College, Keystone College, Johnson College, Junior Achievement of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Scranton Chamber Board of Commerce and Scranton Lackawanna Industrial Building Company and the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber. He served on the Board of Trustees of Marywood University, Scranton Preparatory School and the University of Scranton Kania School of Management. Danchak also was the co-chair of the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission for 10 years. Danchak received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Scranton and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate degree from them in 2018. Seated: Dino Campitelli, Amanda Marchegiani, Karen Saunders, Leo Vergnetti, Spirit of Hope Board of Ambassadors Chair, Laura Toole, and Vanessa Vergnetti Thomas, Standing: Joe Ferguson, Jim Gorman, Vince Scarpetta, Pat Sicilio, Nick Colangelo. Ph.D, Nevin Gerber, Matt Beynon, Tammy Saunders, Mark Mesko, Maria Donahue, Angela Rempe Jones and Marta Gomes, Absent from photo: Clarence Baltrusaitis, Tom Blaskiewicz, Jim & Susan Brady, Brigitte Baum, Richard P. Conaboy, Edward Cosgrove, Bill Davis, Tom DePietro, Mary Erwine, Julie Eisenman, Traci Fosnot, Greg Gagorik, Meghan Gagorik, JoAnn Romano Hallesky, John Heil, Jennifer Heil, Kristie Hynoski, Charles C. Jefferson, Robin Long, John Mack, Linda Marino-Brooks, Joe Mattioli, IV, Brian McQuestion, Philip Medico, Dan Meuser, Dana D’Angelo Morris, David Nape, Christopher Peters, MD, Vito Pizzo, Casey Quinn, William F. Rinaldi, John P. Rodgers, Esq., Vince Scarpetta, P. Richard Scheller, Frank Sepko, Dr. Steven J. Syzdlowski, Joe Van Wie, Tony Vergnetti, Patty Vergnetti, Sonya Eddings, and Atty. Charles J. Volpe. The Board of Ambassadors is a group of individuals and business leaders in northeast Pennsylvania who have come together to raise funds & awareness to fight cancer in the local community through their support and promotion of a gala event. The Spirit of Hope Celebration benefits the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute’s Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program. This program helps individuals in northeast Pennsylvania get their recommended colorectal, breast, cervical, and lung cancer screenings. For more information about the upcoming Spirit of Hope Celebration, please call the Cancer Institute at (570) 904-8808 or visit www.spiritofhopecelebration.org.
