Marywood University Receives Support from the Robert H. Spitz Foundation Marywood University received a 2023 Robert H. Spitz Foundation Grant for $8,000, which further strengthens the foundation’s longstanding, generous support of the STARS (Students Together Achieving Remarkable Success) program. To date, the Robert H. Spitz Foundation has been a significant source of funding, awarding $68,000 to STARS since its inception in 2018. Marywood’s S.T.A.R.S. program offers Latino/a/x youth in grades 7–12 the opportunity to explore their long-term career goals through one-on-one academic assistance and exposure to diversified post-secondary educational paths, trades, and careers. Marywood students serve as tutors and mentors to the youth participants. In addition, monthly workshops, held in English and Spanish, provide parents with similar information about potential opportunities for their children and families. Additionally, Marywood University, as well as other local institutions’ academic departments host students on campus 4-5 times a year, providing information and experiential activities that are focused on various majors and careers. This includes small-group and individual mentorship for students using a college and career readiness curriculum, as well as individual tutoring/mentoring sessions via zoom or in-person with a Marywood student. The Robert H. Spitz Foundation is a registered non-profit organization that supports initiatives and programs serving the residents of Lackawanna County and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Robert H. Spitz was born in Scranton and was a 1955 graduate of Scranton Central High School and the University of Miami, Florida. Prior to retirement, Spitz had been employed by the U.S. Department of Labor and was also the owner of several local Arby’s restaurants. The Robert H. Spitz Foundation was established from his estate in 2015. To date, the Foundation has provided more than $4.6 million in funding to the community. The Scranton Area Community Foundation serves as the administrator of the Robert H. Spitz Foundation. For additional information about Marywood University’s S.T.A.R.S. program, please visit marywood.edu/community/youth-programs/stars/, or call (570) 961-4559. For additional information about The Robert H. Spitz Foundation, please visit https://safdn.org/foundation/robert-spitz-foundation or call (570) 347-6203.
Geisinger Hosts Junior Volunteers Through their service and commitment to improving the lives of our patients, volunteers play a vital part in helping to achieve Geisinger’s mission of making better health easier. Geisinger’s Junior Volunteer Program hosted 100 youth participants age 15 to 18 this summer. They collectively served more than 5,600 hours supporting Geisinger patients, families, and staff. The teens learned personal responsibility and professionalism and explored future career options through hands-on service opportunities and educational workshops. Opportunities included: CPR and trauma response training Resume writing and understanding college admissions Service programs including Caring Cart and the Canine Therapy Program Leadership roundtable session with regional and system leaders Career education sessions in pharmacy, physical therapy, radiology, surgery, maternal fetal medicine, and emergency medicine, led by Geisinger professionals “The program builds a better future for our communities and our organization by helping to educate and prepare local youth to serve in healthcare roles,” said Tina McDowell, volunteer services director. It’s held annually from mid-June to mid-August at four Geisinger hospital campuses: Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital in Lewistown, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre. Know a teen who might be interested in this program? Those interested can start the online application process in February. They’ll need to provide references and participate in group interviews. To be accepted, students must also commit to serving 40 volunteer hours and participating in 15 hours of career exploration education during seven of the eight weeks of the program. The admission process is competitive, and space in the program is limited. Teens should plan ahead to apply for the summer 2025 session. Learn more about the program application requirements at geisinger.org/about- geisinger/volunteer.
Misericordia University College of Business Hosts Middle Management Toolkit Training Right in the Middle is a dynamic professional development course designed specifically for mid-level managers and directors who are responsible for driving organizational success. This course will provide actionable strategies and a toolkit to help you excel in your critical role. Course Highlights: Learn the three key roles of a middle manager: Doer, Leader, and Influencer Gain practical insights from industry experts with years of experience Explore concrete lessons and actionable takeaways that you can apply to your everyday work Meet the Experts: Jeff Sigel: Marketing executive with experience at Cracker Barrel, Ahold, The Hershey Company, and Nabisco. Bernie Banas: Former VP at The Hershey Company and President at Dewey’s Bakery/Salem Baking Company. Whether you’re leading teams, delivering on KPIs, or ensuring high-quality work, this course will help you embrace your role in the middle and find fulfillment in it. Course Dates: Thursday, September 12, 2024 (Meet in person on campus of Misericordia University) Thursday, September 19, 2024 (Virtual via ZOOM) Thursday, September 26, 2024 (Virtual via ZOOM) Thursday, October 3, 2024 (Virtual via ZOOM) Thursday, October 10, 2024 (Meet in person on campus of Misericordia University) Sign up today to take the next step in your leadership journey! https://www.misericordia.edu/right-in-the-middle
University of Scranton Announces Fall Semester Events Sept. 3-Oct. 11 Art Exhibit: “The Lackawanna River and Watershed: History and Environment.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu. Oct. 21-Nov. 22 Art Exhibit: “Hudson River and Delaware Valley: Selections from the Paul Biedlingmaier Jr. Collection.” Hope Horn Gallery, Hyland Hall. Free during gallery hours. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu. Oct. 25-27 and Nov. 1-3 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” presented by The University Players. Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu. September 2024 Sept. 6 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Living to Grow Up: How Childhood Death Became “Unnatural” presented by Perri Klass, M.D., professor of journalism and pediatrics at New York University, national medical director of Reach Out and Read and author of “The Best Medicine: How Science and Public Health Gave Children a Future.” Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Sept. 6 5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “The Lackawanna River and Watershed: History and Environment.” Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Reception follows at the Hope Horn Gallery. The reception is part of Scranton’s First Fridays event. Free. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu. Sept. 6 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Recital: Duo Corgano” featuring David Lao Ball, organ and Trevor Nuckols, horn. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Sept. 10 11 a.m. Volunteer Fair for area nonprofit agencies offering volunteer opportunities for students. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Pre-registration required. Call 570-941-7429 or email ellen.judge@scranton.edu. Sept. 12 1 p.m. PCN 2024 Election Panel Discussion. Pennsylvania Cable Network college tour panel discussion on the 2024 President, U.S. Senate and key Congressional races. Panelists include Gretchen Van Dyke Ph.D., associate professor of political science at The University of Scranton, Borys Krawczeniuk, multimedia journalist with WVIA News Team, Brittany Crampsie from Brit Crampsie Communications, and Christopher Nicholas from Eagle Consulting. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu. Sept. 12 6:30 p.m. Scranton Stories: “What are your Hopes for the Nation? A Scranton Conversation.” Albright Memorial Library, 500 Vine Street, Scranton. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email daysi.carreto@scranton.edu. Sept. 14 8:30 a.m. Schemel Forum “University for a Day.” Topics discussed: “The Philosophy behind JD Vance, Project 2025, and the Rise of Christian Nationalism,” “Climate Justice: Theory, Hurdles, and Opportunities,” “AI, Cybercrime, and Community Safety,” and “Advances in Rehabilitation Technology to Improve Human Mobility.” Moskovitz Theater, DeNaples Center. Registration required. $55. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Sept. 14 7 p.m. Humanities Forum Event: “Countering the Big Business of Education by emphasizing Cura Personalis” presented by Samantha Morales, actor and director. Room 104, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Free. Call 570-941-4700 or email sarah.kenehan@scranton.edu. Sept. 19-22 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. “What the Constitution Means to Me” presented by The University Players. Studio Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. Ticket prices vary. Call 570-941-4318 or email players@scranton.edu Sept. 20 6 p.m. President’s Medal Gala honoring James M. Slattery, head of North America, Rosebank Industries PLC., at Pier Sixty, New York City. Proceeds from the dinner support the University’s Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund. Black Tie. Tickets required. Call 570-941-7719 or email eric.eckenrode@scranton.edu. Sept. 21-22 The University of Scranton Family Weekend 2023. Various campus locations. Call 570-941-4222 or email familyweekend@scranton.edu. Sept. 21 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “Family Weekend Concert” featuring Joseph Boga and The Scranton Ramblers (featuring guitarist Stephane Wrembel) with an appearance by The University of Scranton Concert Choir. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Sept. 25 5 p.m. Asian Studies and the Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities Lecture: “Learning from Chinese Philosophy” presented by Bryan W. Van Norden, Ph.D., best-selling author and The Best 300 Professors in the US by The Princeton Review, James Monroe Taylor Chair in Philosophy at Vassar College (USA), and chair professor in the School of Philosophy at Wuhan University (China). Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Email ann.pang-white@scranton.edu. Sept. 26 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “What Do Children Deserve” presented by Adam Benforado, J.D., professor of law, Thomas R. Kline School of Law, Drexel University, New York Times bestselling author, and children’s rights activist. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. October 2024 Oct. 2 5 p.m. Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities: “An American Icon in Puerto Rico: Barbie, Girlhood, and Colonialism at Play” presented by Emily Aguilo Perez. Room 411, St. Thomas Hall. Free. Call 570-941-4700 or email sarah.kenehan@scranton.edu. Oct. 8 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “The Power of Storytelling” presented by Jonathan Conyers, acclaimed author of the memoir “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here.” Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Oct. 9 8:30 a.m. 23rd Annual U.S. Conference on DISABILITY “The Rehabilitation Act: Learning From Our Past, Knowing Our Present & Building Our Future.” McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Free. Call 570-941-4308 or visit www.scranton.edu/disabilityconference. Oct. 9 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “General Recital” featuring student musicians from Performance Music. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Oct. 10 7:30 p.m. Ignatian Values in Action Lecture: “What We Remember Will Be Saved” presented by Stephanie Saldaña, author of “What We Remember Will Be Saved.” Byron Recreation Complex. Free. Call 570-941-7520 or email linda.walsh@scranton.edu. Oct. 18 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “There’s a Future in the Past: Leading a Repertory Orchestra/Band in the 21st Century” presented by Vince Giordano, Grammy-winner, multi-instrumentalist and band leader. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Oct. 18 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks!” Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Oct. 21 5:30 p.m. Schemel Forum with the Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Ignatian Humanities Collaborative Program. Myers Distinguished Visiting Fellow in the Humanities and Civic Engagement Lecture: “What Can a Body Do? How We Meet the Built World” presented by Sara Hendren, associate professor of art, design and architecture, Northeastern University. Heritage Room, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Free, courtesy of the Myers Fellowship. Reception follows. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Oct. 21 6:30 p.m. Scranton Stories: “Hispanic/Latinx Voices: Screening and Panel Discussion.” Main Auditorium, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, 525 Pine Street, Scranton. Free. Call 570-941-4419 or email daysi.carreto@scranton.edu. Oct. 24 5 p.m. Ethics Across the Curriculum Speaker: “Beyond the 3Rs: How to Shift the Current Animal Research Paradigm” presented by Kathrin Herrmann. Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Free. Call 570-941-4700 or email sarah.kenehan@scranton.edu. Oct. 24 7:30 p.m. Henry George Lecture: “Global Production and Innovation Networks: Consequences for Trade and Industrial Policy” presented by Marc Melitz, Ph.D., the David L. Wells Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Free. Call 570-941-4048 or email janice.mecadon@scranton.edu. Oct. 25 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Bridge Over Troubled Water: Harnessing the Power of Music, Art, and the Humanities for Better Health” presented by Olapeju Simoyan, M.D., professor of psychiatry, Drexel University College of Medicine. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Oct. 25 5 p.m. Art Gallery Lecture: “Hudson River and Delaware Valley: Selections from the Paul Biedlingmaier Jr. Collection.” Pearn Auditorium, Brennan Hall. Reception follows at the Hope Horn Gallery. Free. Call 570-941-4214 or email darlene.miller-lanning@scranton.edu. Oct. 26 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert: The University of Scranton Jazz Band” with guest soloist Alvin Atkinson, drums. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Oct. 27 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu. November 2024 Nov. 10 9 a.m. Open House for prospective students and their families. Various locations on campus. Registration required. Free. Call 888-SCRANTON or email admissions@scranton.edu. Nov. 15 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert: The University of Scranton String Orchestra.” Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Nov. 16 5 p.m. Schemel Forum with the Friends of the Weinberg Memorial Library Collaborative Program: Royden B. Davis, S.J., Distinguished Author Award Honors Brandy Schillache, Ph.D. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Nov. 21 8:30 a.m. Data Science Day featuring programming tutorial, a keynote speaker and a data science competition for high school students. McIlhenny Ballroom, DeNaples Center. Registration required at https://scrantondatacontest.netlify.app/. Call 570-941-6486 or email joseph.klobusicky@scranton.edu. Nov. 21 11:30 a.m. Schemel Forum’s World Affairs Luncheon Series: “Ancient Egypt in Pennsylvania: Excavations, Collections, and New Discoveries” presented by Joseph Wegner, Ph.D., professor of Egyptian archaeology; chair, department of Middle Eastern languages and cultures and curator, Egyptian section, Penn Museum, University of Pennsylvania. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Nov. 21-23 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. “Urinetown” presented by Liva Arts Company. The Royal Theater, McDade Center for Literary and Performing Arts. $5. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.livaartscompany.ludus.com or email livaartscompany@gmail.com. Nov. 23 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “In Concert: The University of Scranton Symphonic Band.” Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. December 2024 Dec. 7 8 p.m. Performance Music: “57th Annual Noel Night” featuring The University of Scranton Singers, String Orchestra and Chamber Ensembles. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Dec. 11 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: “Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert.” Performance Music student musicians perform solo, duo, trio and small group renditions of a variety of Christmas favorites. Houlihan-McLean Center. Admission: one new unwrapped toy, new toiletry items or a monetary donation. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu. Schemel Courses Tuesdays: Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24 and Oct. 1, 8 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “Positive Psychology: A Scientific Primer on Happiness and Flourishing” presented by John C. Norcross, Ph.D., ABPP, Distinguished Professor and chair of psychology, The University of Scranton and Colleen M. Phillips, M.S., Lackawanna County Mental Health Court coordinator and adjunct psychology faculty, The University of Scranton. Room 305, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Thursdays: Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26 and Oct. 3, 10 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien: Christian Mythology in Literature and Film” presented by Sean Brennan, Ph.D., professor, department of history, The University of Scranton. Room 305, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu. Wednesdays: Oct. 16, 23, 30 and Nov. 6, 13, 20 6 p.m. Schemel Forum Course: “From Caligari to Hitler: Cinema and Politics during the Weimar Republic 1918-1933” presented by Andrew LaZella, Ph.D., professor, department of philosophy, The University of Scranton. Room 305, Weinberg Memorial Library. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-4740 or email schemelforum@scranton.edu.
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.
