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Stability of the region rests with the quality of education system By Bill O’Boyle [email protected] ILKES-BARRE — Earlier this year, Larry Newman, executive director of the Diamond City Partnership, said a significant key to the economic growth and stability of any region rests with the quality of education at all levels. grams to the professional “college-town” vibe , Colleges & Universities W degree programs, higher but also makes us more of Pennsylvania, private Northeastern Pennsyl- education creates the resilient and sustainable colleges and universities vania — and specifically region’s workforce pipe- in bucking the trends play a major role in the Luzerne County — is line. to national enrollment state’s economy: fortunate to have many “Equally important numbers that are trending • $5.67 billion — Sala- colleges and universities and mostly overlooked, down. ries and wages paid to that provide numerous higher education is an Strong academic capital employees, making pri- programs that produce economic driver in and of provides a great ecosys- vate colleges and univer- thousands of graduates itself,” Ooms said. “The tem for STEM-based sities the fourth largest each year. institutions are criticized innovation, research, industry employer in PA. “Consider this: in for being nonprofits, i.e. entrepreneurial creativ- • $9.6 billion — Insti- 1919, Wilkes-Barre was exempt from property ity and business activ- tutional expenditures. Newman the largest city in the taxes, but their economic ity — not just in higher • $1.8 billion — Stu- 2018 and supports 3,516 Van Genderen United States without impact supports our com- ley. education, but in critical dent and visitor spending jobs in the community, any college or univer- munities in so many dif- “The alignment of specialty trades as well, ($1.7 billion in student with more than 700 jobs sity to educate its young ferent ways.” business and academics Van Genderen said, in spending, $155 million in being from sectors other people,” Newman said. Ooms said the colleges makes for a great local fact LCCC now offers visitor spending). than higher education “Today, Greater Wilkes- and universities are major economic ecosystem,” specialty trade curricula • $1.1 billion — Value and 369 more jobs than Barre boasts five different employers with family- Van Genderen said. “Wil- and certifications that of federal funds received in 2018. colleges and universi- sustaining jobs. She said kes, Kings, Misericordia, align with the need for for research and develop- Ooms said she ran a ties enrolling more than employees reinvest their Penn State/Wilkes-Barre, skilled trade labor in the ment projects. high-level model of eco- 16,000 students. That earnings in the region and Luzerne County workforce. • $945 million — Con- nomic impact based on didn’t happen by acci- through purchasing local Community College “With high demand struction and renovation the number of employees dent, but through hard goods and services. And have all expanded their for graduates of LCCC’s projects. at Wilkes, Kings, Miseri- collective effort.” the schools themselves programs and their facili- welding, automotive and • $167 million — State cordia, LCCC, and PSU buy local goods and ser- ties, resulting in more additive manufacturing payroll taxes. Hazleton and Wilkes- vices. students and deeper spe- programs, there’s now a • $136 million — Barre. She said since it “Further, there is cializations.” waiting list to enroll at Municipal taxes (wages is based only on current impact of student spend- Van Genderen said LCCC’s Technology Cen- and local services taxes). employment and doesn’t ing and additional LCCC’s downtown ter,” he said. • $17.9 billion — Total include student and visi- spending when their campus is their fastest “Add academic capital, economic impact of pri- tor spending, it is a very families and friends come growing. Simultaneously, business innovation, and vate college and universi- conservative estimate of to visit,” Ooms said. Wilkes and Kings have community leadership ties in Pennsylvania. the economic impact in “Finally, their capital also seen increases in and you have a strong Another recent study Luzerne County. projects create short-term incoming undergraduate synergy in which the done by the Association “Luzerne County has a economic boosts through and graduate students whole is greater than the of Independent Col- number of higher educa- construction. All in all, in their Wilkes Barre sum of its parts.” leges and Universities tion institutions which their collective annual Campuses. Misericordia Van Genderen said by of Pennsylvania — The contribute so much to economic impact — not connecting the academic Economic Impact of Ooms is in the midst of the the region,” Ooms said. including student and completion of a $30 mil- capital of the colleges Independent Higher Edu- “First, they support Teri Ooms, executive visitor spending. lion Science Center and and universities to the cation in Pennsylvania — economic development director of The Institute Wico Van Genderen, Penn State also expanded growing and diverse busi- revealed that the nearly activities since they have [for Public Policy & president/CEO of the on their Invent Penn nesses and to the commu- 290,000 students enrolled the capacity to provide Economic Development], Greater Wilkes-Barre State drive to encourage nity’s social sector, you at independent colleges a trained and skilled said a 2019 study shows Chamber of Commerce, entrepreneurial, health create “a fertile Petrie and universities in Penn- workforce. Workforce is that collective higher said there is a “collegiate services and STEM-based dish” producing sustain- sylvania spend $1 billion the primary driver deter- education investment in energy” in Luzerne programming aligned to able economic momen- annually, or $2.7 million a mining if a business will Luzerne County exceeds County that extends from the skill-set needed in the tum in the region. day at local Pennsylvania locate in a region.” $547 million — about downtown Wilkes-Barre region. All of which not According to a 2017 businesses. The total eco- Ooms said from the $28 million more than to the Back Mountain only adds to the regional study done by the Asso- nomic community college pro- and throughout the Val- ciation of Independent GeisingerE2

2 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Bloomsburg University Times Leader Diana Rogers-Adkinson, Bloomsburg University

Name: Dr. Diana Rogers-Adkinson

Title: Bloomsburg University Provost / Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs

Quote: “When I got to Bloomsburg for my interview I immediately felt at home. The passion for students by the faculty, staff and President (Dr. Bashar) Hanna was what I was looking for in the step phase of my career. I knew I was joining an institution with the same values as mine.”

Dr. Rogers-Adkinson interacts with students during regular, informal morning coffee meetings that she holds with students and faculty. Submitted Dr. Diana Rogers-Adkinson joined Bloomsburg University as provost/senior vice president of academic affairs in June. Submitted By Marcella Kester For Times Leader LOOMSBURG – Bloomsburg University is preparing for a series of changes, additions and enhancements, Band helping to lead the way is a new provost. Following a nation- mine.” track record of fostering, backgrounds. wide search, Dr. Diana Hanna said he was supporting and nurturing Rogers-Adkinson works Rogers-Adkinson began excited to welcome Rog- a diverse student popula- alongside Hanna to meet her tenure at Blooms- ers-Adkins aboard, citing tion,” he said. priorities and goals of burg University in June. her extensive experience Earning her master’s Bloomsburg Univer- She previously served that can serve faculty and degree in counseling, sity. While the president Southeast Missouri State students at Bloomsburg Rogers-Adkinson began focuses on external fac- University, where she led University, alike. her career working as a tors – such as working seven departments and “Her focus on academic special education teacher with the community, more than 3,500 students excellence, student suc- and therapist for students alumni and key stakehold- as the dean of the College cess and retention, along with emotional disorders. ers – the provost handles of Education, Health and with faculty growth and Realizing there was a inward duties to ensure Human Studies. the academic mis- “When I got to Blooms- sion of the univer- developing a Bachelor of our campuses through burg for my interview “I knew I was joining sity is fulfilled. Fine Arts. A Masters in online learning,” she said. I immediately felt at “President Social Work is also await- On taking her new role, home,” she said. “The an institution with the Hanna and I meet ing approval, with even Rogers-Adkinson said passion for students by weekly to discuss more programs working she’s currently focused the faculty, staff and Pres- our priorities and their way through plan- on taking input, listening ident (Dr. Bashar) Hanna same values as mine.” goals,” she said. ning stages. and understanding before was what I was looking “We try to make As an institution inciting change. As a first for in the step phase of development aligns per- missing bridge between sure we are serving all of within the Pennsylvania generation college stu- my career. I knew I was fectly with our strategic the two sectors, she our constituents effective- State System of Higher dent herself, she feels like joining an institution direction. In addition, she would later earn her doc- ly in service to Blooms- Education, the future she can relate to students with the same values as understands and has a torates in both to create burg University.” of Bloomsburg Univer- on campus today and wel- an encompassed care plan Along with a new sity is one that has the comes conversation. for her patients and their provost, the institution potential to be intercon- “I hope students will families. also welcomed some new nected, Rogers-Adkinson feel like they can ask me It wasn’t until a faculty courses of study and long- explained. questions when they see mentor suggested becom- term plans for prospec- “PASSHE is exploring me on campus. I walked ing a professor that she tive students. how we can share pro- their shoes once. Asking considered a career in It recently opened the grams and open up new for help can seem scary, higher education. She Diehl Center for Law opportunities for students but everyone at Blooms- would later rise through School Preparation to across the system. It will burg University wants the ranks of higher educa- assist students looking be an interesting process our students to be suc- tion, leading others while to pursue legal careers. It as the long-term goal is cessful. We are all here to utilizing her education also approved a Profes- that PASSHE schools help,” she said. and human development sional Sales major, and is could share majors across

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Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Clarks Summit University Sunday, December 29, 2019 3 Jim Lytle, Clarks Summit University

Name: Jim Lytle

Title: President of Clarks Summit University

Quote: “I want this school to continue being a school that shapes your life, makes you into someone who loves God and wants others to love God.”

clarkssummit.edu

By Jerry Lynott [email protected] OUTH ABINGTON TWP. — The numbers are there and Jim Lytle believes he can bring some of Sthem here to Clarks Summit University through distance learning. The university presi- beyond the approximate The school offers 40 Around here, we solve care about you. It’s hard says. “And you talk to dent has a goal of increas- 600 students pursuing undergraduate majors problems by talking to to hide in a small school,” any other presidents here ing the online enrollment bachelor’s, master’s and in business and com- people.’ And we want he says. in the valley and they’re five-fold and is counting doctoral degrees into the munications, education, them to develop that skill Lytle’s been teach- going to tell you they on the school’s faith- thousands. The post post Christian ministry, sports in college,” Lytle says. ing “Principles of Bible succeed because of their based education as the graduate degree students and sciences and human He speaks from expe- Study” for 39 years and cabinet. And that’s just as multiplier. account for most of the services. It also offers rience. “I know how it has redeveloped over that true here.” His predecessors have online studies. master’s degrees and doc- works,” he says. time to let his students Without them, neither left their marks through “I’m looking by 2023 torates from Baptist Bible Lytle, who is married know how to approach he, the school, nor the capital improvements and to have 3,200 online stu- Seminary. and has four daughters, the Bible. schools succeed, Lytle expansion and Lytle, 66, dents. That sounds huge “When you bring in the is a 1977 graduate who “So I teach that class points out. a graduate from the small, until you look at what the faith aspects of it, that went onto the seminary because I want to know “I want this school to private school in North- market is, the available changes the flavor of our to earn two master’s who the students are. I continue being a school eastern Pennsylvania, market,” Lytle says. classes. That changes the degrees. He received a want to know who the that shapes your life, wants to build on that He estimates there are color as you go through Doctor of Ministry from student leaders are, you makes you into someone framework. 35 million Americans there. That’s kind of the Trinity Evangelical Divin- know. I want to have a who loves God and wants “A president’s supposed in that category, but it secret sauce in there,” ity School in Deerfield, part in making them what others to love God,” Lytle to make sure there’s a shrinks when considering Lytle explains. Illinois. He taught at they can be with that,” he says. school next year and in the majors and curricu- It is an acquired taste, the school for 14 years, says. “Can that keep some a hundred years,” Lytle lum his school offers. Lytle acknowledges. went to South Africa as His contribution is just students away? Sure. And says during an interview Every undergraduate “We do want our grads a missionary with his one component of the we gotta be OK with that. earlier this month on has a dual major - taking to be Christ-centered. We wife,Diane, and children. larger sum made up of And we gotta say then campus. 30 credits in biblical stud- want them to know God He was named 10th the entire school’s faculty well you fit over there. “Pushing out the ies and the remainder to and love him and serve president of the school in and staff. On the other hand, it can boundaries on who we reach their total of 120 other people for him, but 2015. “I’ve got some excep- draw some really cool are serving education credits to earn a degree then also have the skills Teaching is still part tional educational and people in too.” to, I’ve come to this job in their field of study. It’s along with that so that of his mission and a way business professionals when distance education in line with the school’s their first boss doesn’t to connect with the stu- who work here with me, is becoming normal, not aim to produce graduates have to say to them, dents. who’ve got the same abnormal,” he says. who are “Christ-centered ‘Around here, we are “A small school, you vision for students. And The push under and Career-Ready.” not passive-aggressive. oughta have people who so they play into it,” Lytle his guidance is to go One Source Realty ERA1.com

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4 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: East Stroudsburg University Times Leader Marcia G. Welsh, East Stroudsburg University

Name: Marcia G. Welsh

Title: President of East Stroudsburg University

Quote:“Student success continues to be at the heart of all we do at East Stroudsburg University, and it begins the first day they set foot on campus.”

East Stroudsburg University: Marcia G. Welsh Submitted Photo

By Geri Gibbons For Times Leader ast Stroudsburg University President Marcia G. Welsh takes seriously her role of overseeing a university which provides a spirit of diversity and excellence that prepares students for their careers and for life. E Finance and Accounting/ to the office, but instead varsity sports, recently The 13th president of Marketing. works to build relation- having added women’s the university and the Welsh said the univer- ships with students. wrestling and tumbling/ first female to serve in sity was quick to iden- For example, during acrobatics. that role, Welsh is quick tify the needs for these December’s final exam Top fields of study at to speak of the univer- programs in the current week, Welsh again made the school are exercise sity’s commitment to business environment her way from dorm to science, criminal justice, building entrepreneurial and to respond with the dorm to deliver cookies, business management programs and opportuni- opportunity for students to fuel students both emo- and biology. ties that fuel an innova- to excel in these areas. tionally and physically. Welsh said enrollment tive learning environment The university has The university as a continues to hover at just while supporting econom- also added a master’s whole celebrated the over 6,000. holiday season in several When other university’s ways, including a giant are struggling to attract card crafted by students students, ESU continues in the university’s Art to maintain a consistent and Design program. student base. The 8-by-20 foot card Some of that, she said, was put out on campus could be attributed to the to be signed by students university’s geography, and staff. making it easily acces- The university also sible to both Philadelphia puts together a five min- and New York City, just ute video that celebrates two blocks from Inter- the holidays, reflecting a state 81. spirit of diversity. “Our location provides For several weeks in great opportunity for December, the video has quality internships and undergraduate students business creation while a prominent presentation externships for students,” to complete as many also supporting economic on the school’s website. she said. undergraduate degrees, growth and stability in Welsh emphasizes that The university is also minors and certificates as the Pocono Region and because 40.3 percent in the heart of the Pocono they choose within their beyond. of the undergraduate Mountains. four-year window. “We are very fortunate student body is diverse, “Some families come to Its intent is to provide to have such great part- the university also seeks vacation in the area and students and their fami- nerships with businesses to employ teaching staff decide this is where they lies with financial predict- in the hotel, restaurant which is diverse. want to go to school,” she ability and removes con- and tourism industries as Fred Adams | For Times Leader cern about annual tuition well as those in the finan- East Stroudsburg University President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D., and “Our professors are said. role models to the stu- Welsh continues to be increases. ESU is the first cial and health care fields the University’s Warrior mascot arrive at an open house event to public university in Penn- that enable our students greet hundreds of prospective students. dents,” she said. “We excited about the univer- keep that in mind.” sity’s Warrior Promise sylvania to provide this to get quality internship ic growth and stability in degree in accounting and About 84 percent of program launched in the guarantee. opportunities that pre- the Pocono Region and a doctorate program in students receive finan- Fall of 2018. The program The university, Welsh pare them for today’s job beyond. Health Sciences this year cial aid at the university, guarantees that under- said, is also committed to market, she said. “Our As an example, Welsh – again, in response to which offers 58 under- graduate students will building entrepreneurial partnerships with the points to the introduc- student input and the cur- graduate, 21 graduate and pay the same tuition rate, programs and opportuni- K-12 system ensure our tion of two undergradu- rent job market. 2 doctoral programs. without an increase, for ties that fuel an innova- teacher education candi- ate program introduces Welsh, however, has For students athletes, four years. tive learning environ- dates are the best-of-the- within the last two years: never limited her duties the university offers 22 The program enables ment, inspire ideas and best.” 80948442 Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Fortis University Sunday, December 29, 2019 5 Madeline Levy Cruz, Fortis University

Madeline Levy Cruz has been president of the Fortis Institute’s campuses in Scranton and Forty Fort for eight years. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader By Geri Gibbons For Times Leader

n the eight years that Madeline Levy Cruz has served as president of Fortis Institute’s Scranton and Forty-Fort Icampuses, she has held fast to the school’s commitment to equipping students for the workforce, providing area businesses with skilled employees. Cruz, who calls educa- student was immediately I made sure that our tion “a great equalizer” hired and within six instructors had plenty of is a first generation months, had a home and field experience in addi- Name: Madeline Levy Cruz American and the first was able to be with his tion to didactic train- person in her family to children.” ing.” receive a college educa- Cruz recently bumped Additionally, under Title: Campus president tion. into the student in the Cruz’s watch, the school “I know firsthand how community and was grew its network of Quote: “Career training allows people to find a career important it is and the happy that his time at internship providers and that can help them change their future outlook in a effect it’s had on my fam- Fortis has seemed to clinical sites to ensure short period of time.” ily and my community,” change the trajectory of students had real-time she said. “I love being in his life. field experience before an industry that affords Cruz said when she they graduate. ​ students such a tangible came to the school, she The Institute has outcome.” was determined to make 10 programs between Cruz, who has an a difference and to ade- two campuses: Practi- open door policy and quately prepare students cal Nursing, Dental enjoys hearing students’ for the work world and Hygiene, Expanded stories, said education to benefit the commu- Functions Dental Assist- has the ability to change nity as an institution. ing, Medical Assistant, people’s lives. “When I first came on Phlebotomy and Lab “Several years ago, board, I wanted to make Assistant, Medical Bill- we had a student who sure that our schools ing and Coding, Elec- was attending the school partnered with other trical Trades, HVAC, and living in a shelter,” community organiza- Massage Therapist and she said. “The student tions and employers to CDL-A training. struggled throughout his provide the best training The Scranton and time at Fortis, but was possible for our students Forty Fort campuses able to graduate.” in their chosen field,” serve upwards of 300 Fred Adams | For Times Leader “Upon graduating the she said. “To that end, students. Fortis Institute President Madeline Levy Cruz describes the school as the ‘premier locations for occupational training in our area.’ Times Leader Media Group is proud to support the many prestigious colleges and universities in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. Some of the Times Leader’s most stand-out employees - from the newsroom to advertising to circulation and beyond - have succeeded because of the education they received in these schools.

As we begin a New Year, the Times Leader thanks these schools for the efforts they have made to better our communities and our residents. E6

6 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Geisinger School of medicine Times Leader Steven J. Scheinman, M.D., Geisinger School of Medicine

President and Dean Steven J. Scheinman, M.D., of Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Scranton, is shown working at his desk at the medical college.

By Patrick Kernan [email protected] CRANTON — 2019 was another big year of growth for the Geisinger Commonwealth School of SMedicine, if you ask Steven J. Scheinman, M.D. And Scheinman has a According to Schein- students, as it all but helping students begin better chance of knowing man, the program is ensures a lack of student developing their profes- that than anyone, consid- open to 40 students in loans to repay and job sional identities. Also, ering he’s been serving as each incoming class. If a after graduation, making as evidenced by the the president and dean of student agrees to work it very attractive. new Geisinger Primary the school almost since in primary care at a Geis- Additionally, heading Care Scholars Program, its inception. inger facility for a certain into the new year, Schein- Scheinman said there will With multiple cam- amount of time after man said that the school be an increased focus on puses around the area — graduation, Geisinger is going to be “looking at primary care. Name: Steven J. Scheinman, M.D. and even as far away as agrees to not only give (its) curriculum with a Since last year, Schein- Atlantic City, N.J. — the that student a full schol- fresh look.” man said the launch of school’s the new Atlan- Title: President and Dean, growth tic City cam- Geisinger School of Medicine seems “We can already say our Atlantic City pus has been poised everything the to con- campus launch was a great success.” school could Quote: “We’re very enthusiastic tinue. have hoped And for. about our students. We can already while “We’re very say our Atlantic City campus launch arship, but also a living there are numerous “We want to preserve enthusiastic about our was a great success.” things to be excited about stipend. those elements that we’re students,” Scheinman on the school’s multiple “It’s not a gift, though,” very proud of,” Schein- said. “We can already say campuses, Scheinman Scheinman said. “If they man said, specifically cit- our Atlantic City campus said that perhaps the don’t come back, they ing the school’s emphasis launch was a great suc- most interesting is owe the money back. It’s on active, hands-on learn- cess.” healthcare administration sity of Sciences in Phila- the school’s Geisinger more like a forgivable ing instead of lectures. Additionally, Schein- and biomedical informat- delphia. Primary Care Scholars loan.” But, he said, there are man said there will be ics. Program, a new program It’s a program that is other things the school a series of new online These programs are Reach Patrick Kernan at being offered to incoming likely to be incredibly is looking to begin to masters programs being being launched in con- 570-991-6386 or on Twit- freshman. popular with incoming emphasize more, like offered online, including junction with the Univer- ter @PatKernan

80948565 Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Johnson college Sunday, December 29, 2019 7 Katie Leonard, Johnson College

Name: Katie Leonard

Title: President of Johnson College

Years of Service: 13 (one as president)

Quote:“I just fell in love with Johnson College. From the moment I stepped on this campus, I felt like I was home.”

Katie Leonard has served as Johnson College president since 2018. Submitted Photo johnson.edu

By Kevin Carroll [email protected] CRANTON — Johnson College President Katie Leonard may have only taken office back in January 2018, but she’s Salready left an indelible mark on the school. Originally from New tion wasn’t always the nity like this again,” said “Work is central in the classes in Forest City year ahead. York, Leonard earned a plan, but when she saw Leonard, “so I threw my lives of our students,” starting in 2020, and also There’s also talk of bachelor’s degree from an opportunity in the hat in the ring when the Leonard said. “We in Luzerne County. expanding the internship York College of Pennsyl- “We filled program at Johnson. vania and worked there our first “We have a very robust in numerous roles, meet- “I just fell in love with Johnson computerized internship program here ing her future husband numerical con- at Johnson,” Leonard and deciding to move to trols course at said. “Now, we’re allow- Northeastern Pennsylva- College, From the moment I stepped Don’s Machine ing students to enter the nia. Shop in West program a whole semes- She started at Johnson on this campus, I felt like I was Pittston,” ter sooner. College in 2007 as the Leonard said. “Employees love it, stu- school’s Coordinator of “We expected dents love it.” Grants. She immediately home.” six students, As president, Leonard realized that she was in wanted to create some and we got has overseen the growth the right place. field, she took it. school announced they flexibility that allows for 11.” and maturity of countless “I just fell in love “I just kept gaining were doing a search.” an intercession.” Leonard also expects to students under her watch, with Johnson College,” more and more experi- One of the very first Leonard also oversaw fill the next class at Don’s, and according to her, it Leonard said. “From the ence,” Leonard said. advancements made the creating of Johnson starting in 2020. makes the job even more moment I stepped on this After serving as execu- under Leonard’s watchful College’s first advising Future plans for John- rewarding. campus, I felt like I was tive vice president start- eye was the expansion of office, where students son College include an “To make the connec- home.” ing in 2015, Johnson Johnson into a full-time, can talk to advisers about industry fast-track pro- tion with students while Even though she’s became the college’s year-round campus, allow- their goals – personally, gram, where high school they’re here … there’s no spent more than a decade eighth president in 2018. ing flexibility for students academically and profes- students can take courses better feeling,” she said. at Johnson, Leonard “I realized that I may who have to work in addi- sionally. for college credit and admits that higher educa- never have an opportu- tion to taking classes. The college will offer arrive at Johnson a whole APPLY NOW RANKED ONE OF THE TOP 10 COLLEGES IN THE NATION THAT CAN SOLVE THE SKILLS GAP - FORBES

Certificate and Associate Degrees in • Building Trades & Technology • Electronic & Industrial • Health Sciences • Animal Science • Transportation & Logistics Johnson.edu

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8 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Keystone College Times Leader Tracy Brundage, Keystone College

Tracy Brundage has served as president of Keystone College since July of 2018. Kevin Carroll | Times Leader By Kevin Carroll [email protected]

A PLUME — In just her second year on the job, Keystone College president Tracy Brundage has already made a Lsignificant impact on the social and academic atmospheres of the school. “We’re trying to make and Penn College before charge of academic affairs her ties to the area and “Where it makes sense, sure we have alignment making her way to La for a year before former to the campus helped her we will continue to grow with our career pathways Plume. president David Coppola win the presidency. and improve,” Brundage so students know where She served as provost stepped down. “Working as the pro- said. they want to go,” Brund- and vice president in Brundage believes that vost helped me get to age said. “We want to know faculty, and the make sure that their time campus’s culture,” Brund- here pays off.” age said. “I really had a After taking over as good sense of the organi- president in July of 2018, zation.” Brundage immediately This year has been a set to work building on banner year for Keystone Keystone’s already stellar College, both academi- academic reputation. cally and athletically. Her main goal, she Keystone brought in its says, is to make sure that second-largest freshman students have their path class in the past 10 years to the future mapped out with 350 new students Name: Tracy Brundage well before they leave coming to campus under campus. Brundage’s watch in her “We really want to first full year as president. Title: President of Keystone make the Keystone expe- On the gridiron, Key- College rience as transformational stone’s football team had as we can for the stu- their very first season of dents,” she said. competition in the fall. Quote: “We’re trying to make sure Brundage’s path to the Other advancements presidency was a long came in the form of Key- we have alignment with our career one, with many stops stone’s computer science pathways so students know where along the way. program, which features After earning a mas- an artificial intelligence they want to go. We want to make ter’s degree at Penn State, component to it. Other sure that their time here pays off.” Brundage worked in academic steps have various academic roles at been taken in Keystone’s Penn State York, Harris- visual arts and geology Fred Adams | For Times Leader burg Community College Brundage programs.

Making college Tuition more accessible. Price The tuition reset provides a more transparent and realistic “sticker Reset price” for students and their families.

“Keystone has always been a leader among colleges in making higher education affordable to as many students as possible.” keystone.edu President Tracy L. Brundage, Ph.D.

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Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: King’s College Sunday, December 29, 2019 9 Rev. Jack Ryan, C.S.C., King’s College

Rev. Jack Ryan has been president of King’s College since 2011. Times Leader file photos

By Kevin Carroll [email protected] ILKES-BARRE — From the seminary to the president’s office at King’s College, Rev. Jack Ryan Whas walked a long, long road. “When you interview Reading and even up planned, it’s just some- The last four incom- an old person like me, north in Toronto before thing that I serendipitous- ing freshman classes it’s hardly ever a short entering the seminary, ly stuck to, and I liked it,” are among the biggest answer,” Ryan joked as where he was ordained as Ryan said. the school’s ever seen, he was asked about his a priest in 1990. He became the dean of according to Ryan. path to the presidency at “It was always in the the William McGowan He also wanted to King’s, an office that he back of my mind to join School of Business at broaden the university’s has held since 2011. the seminary,” Ryan said. King’s in 2004, a position horizons by implement- Rev. Jack Ryan The funny thing about “So I figured I’d give it a he held until his elevation ing new academic pro- Name: Ryan, who was born and try.” to the presidency in 2011. grams. raised in Wilkes-Barre, is He taught his first Ryan prides himself on “I wanted to broaden Title: President, King’s College that he’s actually a Wil- course, a finance class, in bringing in classes from out a number of academic kes University graduate, 1984. all over the world. programs to align them something he says that “I walked into that “One of the things that with what students were Quote: “One of the things that Wilkes interim president, classroom and thought to people don’t realize is asking for,” Ryan said. Paul Adams, loves to hold myself, ‘I just lowered the that 60% percent of our One such program was people don’t realize is that 60% over his head. IQ of this room and I’m students come from dif- King’s engineering pro- percent of our students come from Since earning his the teacher,’” Ryan said. ferent parts of the world,” gram, which opened in degree, Ryan has been No matter the case, Ryan said. “People come 2011, Ryan’s first year as different parts of the world. People quite the traveler, enjoy- teaching stuck. from all over to go to our president. come from all over to go to our ing stops in Philadelphia, “It’s not something I school.” “In one decade, we school.”

went from no engineer- return back to King’s to ing program to a fully- finish up. equipped program,” Ryan King’s is also on the said. verge of launching an Ryan also wanted to e-sports program, as well expand the school’s ath- “Gaming is very popu- letic opportunities. King’s lar with young people,” is up to 27 different ath- Ryan said. “There’s letic programs now. socializing and bonding “We wanted to offer that happens when your a more robust array of part of a team.” sports, including hockey All in all, Ryan’s proud and track and field,” Ryan of the legacy that he’s said. built at King’s. In just the last year, “To help a woman or a Ryan has started a joint man figure out what your nursing program with gifts are, and to use those Luzerne County Commu- gifts to serve the com- nity College, where stu- mon reward is incredibly dents could spend their rewarding,” Ryan said. first year at King’s, go to King’s College President Rev. Jack Ryan blesses the Mulligan Center for Engineering during a ceremony Times Leader file photos LCCC for two years, then on campus in Wilkes-Barre earlier this year. Times Leader Media Group is proud to support the many prestigious colleges and universities in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. Some of the Times Leader’s most stand-out employees - from the newsroom to advertising to circulation and beyond - have succeeded because of the education they received in these schools.

As we begin a New Year, the Times Leader thanks these schools for the efforts they have made to better our communities and our residents. U of ScrantonE10

10 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Lackawanna College Times Leader Mark Volk, Lackawanna College

By Roger DuPuis Mark Volk, president of Lackawanna College, is seen at his office. Times Leader file photo [email protected] SCRANTON — Lackawanna College President Mark Volk understands the needs of the veterans in his student population. That’s because he is a “It’s about experiential currently Lackawanna’s Foreign Area Officer in the 1980s, and even- thanks to that and their veteran himself. learning versus book executive vice president (FAO) regional special- tually drawing him to benefits, many can attend Volk spent 26 years in learning,” he said during and chief innovation offi- ist studying Arabic at Lackawanna. for almost no cost. the U.S. Army, retiring a recent interview. “Peo- cer. the Defense Language Volk was appointed He also encourages with the rank of colonel, ple now want to make a Volk, an Easton native, Institute, the bio adds, to the position of Vice them to be active mem- before entering the world difference.” is the son of a World War and is also a graduate of President of Planning and bers of the student com- of academia. For Volk, helping II veteran who joined the the Department of State Operations in 2004 and munity, from classroom He respects that many move the college in that U.S. Marines in 1945. Foreign Service Institute, then was promoted to to clubs and groups. of the college’s students, direction has been the “I kind of grew up with Tunisia, where he con- Executive Vice President “We all serve for differ- including veterans, capstone of a long and the idea of service to the tinued his Arabic studies of the College in 2007. He ent reasons, and at differ- increasingly seek educa- distinguished career. nation,” he said. “I also and traveled extensively succeeded Angeli in 2012. ent times, from different tion which is relevant to Volk is in the process of knew in my mind that I throughout the Middle Under Volk’s tenure, cultures, but we all have the world of work and transitioning into retire- wanted to be an officer.” East and North Africa. the student body has a common bond,” Volk will help their employabil- ment on a high note. It Volk earned a Bachelor The transition to aca- grown 26%, to about said. “We all at one point ity. Many, especially the was announced earlier of Arts Degree in History demia, again, was one 1,860, he said. raised our hands and took veterans, appreciate an this year that Volk will from the University of where Angeli played a Lackawanna has many an oath.” education that is relatable be succeeded on July 1, Scranton in 1977. role, acting as a mentor programs to benefit vet- and usable. 2020 by Dr. Jill Murray, He said a chance when Volk was teaching erans, and Volk said that encounter with a friend on the rifle team led him to ROTC and then to the military. That friend was Ray Angeli — whose career in many respects mirrored his own, and who was Volk’s prede- cessor as Lackawanna’s president. Volk entered the mili- tary thinking he would serve for two or three Name: Mark Volk years. “But then it all kind of clicked for me,” he Job title: President of recalled. “I loved the com- Lackawanna College munity, the mission.” That mission would take him to diverse Years of service: 14.5 corners of the world, and lead to increasingly important roles. Quote: “It’s about experiential As his official college learning versus book learning. biography points out, Volk served in a variety People now want to make a of command and staff difference.” positions at home and overseas. He also trained as a Lackawanna College President Mark Volk is seen at his desk. Volk is a Times Leader file photo Middle East/North Africa veteran who served 26 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a colonel. Times Leader Media Group is proud to support the many prestigious colleges and universities in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. Some of the Times Leader’s most stand-out employees - from the newsroom to advertising to circulation and beyond - have succeeded because of the education they received in these schools.

As we begin a New Year, the Times Leader thanks these schools for the efforts they have made to better our communities and our residents. E11

Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Luzerne County Community College Sunday, December 29, 2019 11 Thomas P. Leary, Luzerne County Community College

Times Leader file photo Luzerne County Community College President Thomas Leary stands for a portrait in his office on the college campus in Nanticoke. By Nick Albertson [email protected]

ANTICOKE — Thomas P. Leary has led Luzerne County Community College Nfor 13 years as president and steward of the school.

When discussing his to him about her goals for plishment.” education in life as it is in station at LCCC, Leary the future but was being Leary cites this story school. doesn’t say a word about held back financially by as a difference between LCCC is expanding its the personal attributes circumstances out of her community colleges and network and increasing that make him the presi- control. Leary describes four-year schools in that the accessibility of their dent he is. Instead, he talking to her in his office LCCC is an open door service. Leary mentioned talks about his students, and seeing her around school with reasonable that this past September Name: Thomas P. Leary his team and their goals on campus over the tuition allowing for all the college opened its as a community. course of the three years manner of students to seventh dedicated center “Particularly, I think she attended LCCC. He walk through and, one in Watsontown and that Title: President of Luzerne what we pride ourselves said at graduation, when day, across the graduation two of their centers are County Community College on is the fact that we are handing this woman her stage. expanding. LCCC’s dedi- focused on student suc- diploma during one of the “There is such a great cated center in Hazleton cess in just about every quiet moments of the cer- synergy in the commu- is adding space due to Quote: “What we try to focus on aspect of people’s lives,” emony, he heard the voice nity between the college student demand and an is the fact that we have such a Leary said. “What we try of a little girl calling out and the people out there expansion to the Wilkes- to focus on is the fact that to her mommy who had giving their time, their Barre center is being diversity of students who come we have such a diversity just completed an educa- energy and their treasure discussed. to us from all kinds of academic of students who come tion she may not have to help students achieve “We learned that and economic backgrounds. to us from all kinds of had elsewhere. their dreams. And that’s in Pittston, which we academic and economic “It instilled in me what we’re most proud opened last year, from our In many instances, we change backgrounds. In many that that was a real-life of.” Leary said. “Four out students that they needed family lives we help so many instances, we change fam- moment. Captured that of our five graduates stay the center in Pittston or ily lives we help so many that is going to change right here at home, so they would not be able to who never experience a college who never experience a that family. Her daugh- we’re inextricably linked get their education.” education before.” college education before.” ter is going to learn to to the community.” The optimistic, solu- Leary goes on to tell a appreciate how impor- Leary himself is no tion-oriented, manner in story, “a pertinent experi- tant college is, she saw stranger to the private which Leary and his team ence for me”, as he put it. over those three years college experience. He serve the students of the for us to never sit back ton and Wilkes-Barre. He describes stand- her mother working on received his bachelor’s college is evident in the and feel we have accom- We’re moving it into ing at graduation and papers and doing all degree from King’s Col- ability they have shown plished what we need to Scranton, which also has rewarding diplomas. the stuff that needs to lege in Wilkes-Barre, his to face and overcome do,” he said. “I get excit- a high demand,” Leary One student in particu- be done but ultimately master’s from the Uni- challenges by engaging ed sitting around a table said. “And the second lar stood out to him. A leading to that moment versity of Scranton and in positive business with and hearing the ideas program that really came woman who had spoken of celebration and accom- attended Temple in Phila- other institutions of recently in the last couple from our faculty is the delphia while working learning and by adapting of years.” certified recovery special- on his master’s. He does to the challenges facing One such idea has ist program. We’re all not see these schools as students. been LCCC’s Academic familiar with, unfortu- competitors to LCCC but During this past semes- English as a Second Lan- nately, the opioid crisis, rather as partners in edu- ter, Leary was given a guage program, which and we began a state cation. new contract by LCCC’s Leary describes as a way model program that offers Networking and teach- board of trustees. It is for the many people who the opportunity for peo- ing students how to an investment and vote have come to the commu- ple who are in recovery to network has been and of confidence that Leary nity LCCC serves to learn become certified recovery continues to be one of the has made it his mission to the language they will specialists. They’ll be advantages LCCC affords live up to. need to thrive there. going back into agencies Times Leader file photo its students. Leary states “I’m driven by people “We’re really proud and other areas in our Thomas Leary has been president of Luzerne County how important it is that who I work with who Community College for 13 years. of the fact that we have community to help those the community college are on a mission and I’m established that in Hazle- who are in recovery.” experience be as much an part of it. It is important

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12 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Marywood university Times Leader Sister Mary Persico, Marywood University

By Patrick Kernan [email protected] CRANTON — In last year’s edition of the Presidential Profiles, Sr. Mary Persico said there was no Splace she’d rather be working than Marywood University. Now, this year, Persico said there are more things to be excited about at Marywood than ever before.

Persico, who took over Persico said. will be able to do their focused on providing as the university’s 12th Marywood Heights’ course-required rotations education to low-income president in 2016, said approximately 75 resi- directly at the home. students in the area, the there’s been an increased dents can expect to have And another new initia- NativityMiguel School push to make Marywood the same level of care as tive at the opposite end teaches 60 students a more community- they previously did, but of life’s spectrum: early between fifth and eighth focused school. its purchase by the uni- childhood. grades right on Mary- A main part of that versity now opens up new The NativityMiguel wood’s campus. Name: Sister Mary Persico initiative comes by way of opportunities for Mary- School of Scranton now Persico called it a “very the university’s purchase wood students, as medi- calls Marywood Uni- specialized program,” of the former Holy Family cal and therapy students versity home. A school which, once again, pro- Title: President Residence, a retire- ment home only a short distance away from vides unique opportuni- back.” — or now ties for Marywood stu- Other programs on ostensibly dents. campus have similar goals a part of — “Our Marywood stu- in mind, including the Marywood’s dents have an opportuni- ever-expanding Veter- campus ty to do student teaching ans and Military center, According there,” she said, adding focusing on providing to Persico, that faculty members at education to veteran stu- the facil- the university have also dents, and an on-campus ity will now given exciting presenta- daycare for children be called tions to the students under the age of 5. Marywood there. She explained that Heights, and Persico said the Mary- providing unique educa- it serves as wood community has tional opportunities like the first uni- responded incredibly well these that also have direct versity-based to the introduction of the community benefits com- retirement wider community directly pletely falls in line with community onto the campus in these the university’s mission. in the area. new ways. “That’s who we really “It’s a “(The students) love are,” she said. “This brand new the interaction,” she said. exemplifies our service to trend in “They love being helpful the community.” and being able to give education,” Marywood University President Sister Mary Persico, IHM.

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Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Misericordia university Sunday, December 29, 2019 13 Tom Botzman, Misericordia University

Thomas Botzman is president of Misericordia University in Dallas. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader By Mark Guydish [email protected] ALLAS TWP. — Misericordia University may seem a tad isolated compared to the urban-centric campuses of DKing’s College and Wilkes University, but President Thomas Botzman gladly points to recent expansion and non- campus work designed to show how much a part of the community his school really is.

There is a sidewalk in to students and public is growing thanks to “We do both the borough and the alike, he said, noting the acquisition of the quite a township that runs all the recent addition of Payne Printery property bit of the way from downtown a statue of Catherine between Lake Street and pro bono Dallas to the Anderson McCauley, founder of the Memorial Highway. Plan- work,” Name: Tom Botzman Athletic center,” Botzman Sisters of Mercy who in ning is still in the early including notes. “We extended our turn founded Misericor- stages, but Botzman pre- occupa- parking lot and added dia. . Plans call for tables dicted the property will tional Title: President of Misericordia University some green space down and chairs and additional be used at least in part therapy, where the Dallas dairy landscaping near the to expand the health sci- a speech used to be.” statue in spring “so one ences program, including language Quote: “We want to do as much good as we can “We now have a space can stop and share their more clinical space where and hear- and use the resources we’re given wisely, to make where people can go dreams with Catherine,” students can get hands ing cen- downtown, do a little bit Botzman said, “and have on experience in their ter and things better for all the people who live in this of shopping at the local a good cup of tea, as the fields. an autism area.” businesses and relax and sisters say.” Misericordia already center. enjoy our community,” “We’ve done a lot of has several on-campus “We’re he said. “We were really things symbolically to clinic services, which doing Botzman said. “We’re whoever needs help lets excited about creating make it more of a gateway Botzman proudly points things that say to the saying where are the go find them, let’s walk, a gateway to the univer- to who we are and who to as another part of the community, come on needs, who needs help? go find them and and give sity in a way that people we’ve been, and who we community outreach. campus, be part of this,” The sisters always said them help. So whether it’s would really know we are will be.” autism, or here.” The “will be” is already speech and The sidewalk also helps unfolding with the expan- language, connect various build- sion and renovation of or someone ings on Lake Street that the science center, and recover- Misericordia has pur- expansion of needs-based ing from a chased and re-purposed, scholarships. “I like the stroke who including John J. Passan idea of endowed scholar- needs physi- Hall and three homes ships,” he said. “We are cal therapy, used for the Women With rewarding the students we’re ready. Children program — who are capable and “We want which, not incidentally, ready to go to school, but to do as will add a fourth house who need some support much good soon. Botzman has cham- today. And some day it as we can pioned the program, dou- will be our children and and use the bling the size and earning grandchildren. It’s what resources attention from the state, I call inter-generational we’re given which has launched sever- justice, that we are not wisely, to al pilot programs at other only taking care of the make things institutions of higher residents in the valley and better for all education. Pennsylvania today but the people Space on the campus 100 years from now, 150 who live in itself has been periodi- years from now we will this area.” cally set up to be inviting still be doing good.” The campus itself

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14 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Pennsylvania College of Technology Times Leader Davie Jane Gilmour, Penn College

Name: Davie Jane Gilmour

Hometown: Williamsport

Job, title: President, Pennsylvania College of Technology

Years of service: 21 as President; 42 with the College

By Marcella Kester For Times Leader ot only has Davie Jane Gilmour has been busy molding “tomorrow makers” at the Pennsylvania College of Technology Nfor the past 21 years, but she’s also assisted in turning the higher education establishment into a national leader in applied technology education. Known as Penn Col- Their ability to quickly “Our students learn Excellence at the college nizations – values that beam welder for instruc- lege, the Pennsylvania assert themselves into a from faculty with real- epitomizes how college include meeting industry tional purposes. College of Technology variety of career fields world experience. The and industry can work needs and empowering With mounting tuition is also a special mission matched with the signifi- state apportion funding collaboratively. the future workforce for costs remaining at the affiliate of Pennsylvania cant impact they have on we have received is a Nearly 50,000 Pennsyl- success,” Gilmour said. forefront of higher educa- State University. both the workforce and testament to our value in vanians are employed by “For Penn College, this tion news, Penn College Raised in Enola, Gilm- surrounding communi- producing graduates who the plastics industry with means producing tomor- is doing it’s part to help our completed her bach- ties is what led Gilmour address the critical skills an annual payroll of $2.5 row makers with stronger alleviate passing that cost elor’s degree in dental to call her skills and a – and future debt – onto hygiene at West Liberty graduates greater depth its students. University. She would “tomorrow of under- Its apprenticeship pro- then come aboard Penn makers.” standing for gram was awarded almost College (then William- “Teach- rotational $8 million in federal sport Community Col- ing is at the molding. grants to deliver training lege) 42 years ago to help heart of our For Shell, to over 3,000 apprentices open its dental hygiene educational it means throughout the next four program as a full-time mission,” investing in years. Also, Gilmour was instructor and curriculum Gilmour the work- pleased to announce that developer. said. “We force of its tuition increases have Gilmour would later have a 100- organization been held to under 3% for go on to earn both her year legacy and its cus- five consecutive years. master’s degree and Ph.D. in hands-on tomers.” It’s also participating in in health education from learning.” Penn Col- the Momentum Incentive Penn State, as well as Classrooms lege also Program, a new initiative become the president of at Penn Col- doubled the for first-time, full-time the college. lege feature size of its bachelor degree students Graduates of 100-plus state-of-the- welding facil- who will be able to freeze academic programs boast art labs and ities to help their tuition costs for an overall 97.3% place- equipment meet indus- their entire four years if ment rate in the work- that allow try demand, they graduate on time force, with several majors students to gain market- caps affecting manufac- billion, she said, and the allowing for an additional and maintain a minimum reaching a full 100% able skills on industry- turing and so many other center will help ensure 60 students to be enrolled 3.0 GPA. placement rate. Many standard equipment. industries and profes- future generations of plas- per year. Along with pur- Visit pct.edu for more Penn College graduates Penn College continues sors in Pennsylvania and tics professionals in the chasing new equipment, information about the can find jobs in fields that to collaborate with indus- beyond,” she continued. workforce. Gilmour said the college Pennsylvania College of range from nursing and try-leading companies The recent opening of “The investment from became first higher edu- Technology. plastics to aviation and who serve in an advisory the Shell Polymers Rota- Shell exemplifies values cation institution in the mechatronics. capacity, she added. tional Molding Center of held by both of our orga- U.S. to house an electron

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO SUCCEED It takes curiosity. IN A Critical thinking. A can-do spirit. And an educational experience that meets your passion head-on. At Penn College, you’ll meet a community of innovators. Future STEM pioneers who are learning by doing. Breathing new life into old concepts. Testing theories. And breaking barriers. Learn how at pct.edu/stem.

80948974 STEM CAREER? E15

Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Penn Foster Sunday, December 29, 2019 15 Frank Britt, Penn Foster

Frank Britt is the chief executive officer at Penn Foster.

By Geri Gibbons For Times Leader s a high school student growing up just outside Manhattan, Frank Britt, CEO of Penn Foster, wasn’t making Athe connection between an education and a successful life. Then, with the help of pathways to opportu- “I landed as the leader a neighbor, he realized nity through accredited of an institution focused the importance of invest- diploma, certificate and on helping to transform ing in himself. degree programs that the lives of the often left- “I started to recognize matter in the world of behind and at-risk young that developing disci- work. adults looking for an on- plines, habits of learn- Britt’s own story ramp to a career-trajec- ing, and earnest self- reflects his willingness tory,” he said. “My new discovery could serve as to change and grow. focus was to help others the catalyst for a differ- Having entered the find the means to make ent future,” he said. field of business, he the jump themselves.” That understanding found himself a the 0per- Britt is more than of how education and ating partner at one of pleased with his deci- self discipline shape a the premier venture cap- sion. person’s future serves as ital firms in the country. “It is working; we are Name: Frank Britt the compass for Britt’s At first he thought he helping individuals to tenure at Penn Foster. ​ had achieved the ​Ameri- change their futures and “Penn Foster is bridg- can dream, but then redefine their personal Title: Chief Executive Officer, Penn Foster ing the gap between asked himself, “Have I?” story, and I, too, am education and economic “What happens in life undergoing a personal opportunity to build when you actually begin transformation as a Quote: “Penn Foster is bridging the gap between the workforce of tomor- to successfully complete result.” education and economic opportunity to build the row,” he said. “We part- your original story?” he Penn Foster is head- workforce of tomorrow. We partner with employers ner with employers to asked himself, “Is there quartered in Scranton design and deliver digi- a need to do a sequel? with offices in Boston, to design and deliver digital and blended learning tal and blended learning Do you launch the new Scottsdale, Norcross, programs that attract, upskill and retain workers in programs that attract, and improved version of Montreal and New York. upskill and retain work- the same narrative, or It is on track to gradu- America’s fastest-growing fields and professions.” ers in America’s fastest- do you pivot to live a dif- ate 70,000 students in growing fields and pro- ferent and ideally better 2019. It has over 2,400 fessions.” story?” employer-partners. With more than So Britt decided to 40,000 graduates each change the course of year, Penn Foster helps his life, to be open to individuals discover change.

Penn Foster is hiring! We now have open positions for Student Advocates, marketers, educators, and other rewarding roles in our Scranton office. Join our team of life-changers and dream-makers with 401k, health, tuition, and PTO benefits.

Visit pennfoster.edu/why-penn-foster.about/careers to apply today.

80950178 16 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Penn state Scranton Times Leader Marwan Wafa, Penn State Scranton

Penn State Scranton Chancellor Marwan Wafa. Bill Tarutis | For Times Leader Times Leader staff Penn State Scranton Chancellor Marwan A. Wafa’s vision for his campus is simple. He wants to make it the sion for higher education Tuition at the school service that we offer is make it one of the best on Penn State Scranton, place to be for prospec- while at Clemson, which remains one of the low- that 92% of Penn State places to live and work.” check out its website at tive college students in was a turning point in my est in the region, in part Scranton’s students are For more information scranton.psu.edu. Northeastern Pennsylva- career,” he said. thanks to successful local, which means they nia and beyond. Wafa started his aca- efforts in raising scholar- stay in our region which “Working with our demic career at the Uni- ship funding. is key to maintaining a faculty, staff, and key versity of Southern Indi- “Each campus has its stable, highly educated stakeholders, we aspire to ana in Evansville, Ind., own strategic plan, which and prepared workforce.” be the destination choice as an assistant professor. supports the overall stra- Bringing programs for students who want to After 14 years of service tegic goals and values of such as engineering is earn a globally recognized there, which included dif- Penn State University,” one of the things Wafa degree right here at, or ferent leadership and aca- he said. “It is my respon- points to as his biggest near, home,” Wafa said. demic roles, he moved to sibility that Penn State achievement at the school “We also believe in the the University of Wiscon- Scranton fulfills her role “The ability to bring Name: Marwan Wafa importance of an engaged sin Parkside as the dean in serving Pennsylvania new degree programs university that works of the School of Business residents.” that serve our region, closely with our local and Technology. Under Wafa’s watch along with providing Title: Chancellor of Penn State communities to make our Several more moves PSU Scranton, which more scholarship fund- Scranton region a destination for landed at IUPUC in already offers the first ing to facilitate afford- those who want to work Columbus, Ind. two years of pre-engineer- ability, are important and raise a family in a “During that career ing, is working on bring- achievements,” he said. Quote: : “Penn State University welcoming environment.” journey and over 20 years ing a bachelor of science “Being recognized as a engineering programs are highly Wafa’s own trip to PSU of progressive leadership in mechanical engineer- ‘welcoming campus’ of Scranton was a long won. roles, I was fortunate to ing to the campus in the Penn State University, recognized globally and graduates He grew up in Kuwait be selected for my cur- fall of 2020. In prepara- where the majority of our are well sought after by employers. and earned a bachelor rent role of chancellor of tion for the program, students are Pennsylvania degree in civil engineer- Penn State Scranton,” he the Grainger Building in residents (92%) is a great Making such a program available ing from Kuwait Univer- added. Dunmore was purchased return on investment for locally is an important initiative to sity in 1980. In his role at PSU and will be redesigned to our state. “After two years of Scranton, his respon- serve the program with a “In terms of challenges, serve area companies. A significant practice, I decided to earn sibility is to make sure “state-of-the-art-facility.” having sufficient scholar- service that we offer is that 92% of a master’s degree to more his campus “fulfills its “Penn State University ship funding in order effectively manage and mission of a Land Grant engineering programs are to give more residents Penn State Scranton’s students are lead projects,” he said. University.” highly recognized global- opportunities to fulfill local, which means they stay in our That took him to Clem- That mission includes ly and graduates are well their aspirations of earn- son University in South ensuring student have sought after by employ- ing a globally recognized region which is key to maintaining Carolina where he earned access and affordability, ers,” Wafa said. “Making degree right here at a stable, highly educated and a M.S. in management while aligning our degree such a program available home. We continue our prepared workforce.” and a Ph.D. in Industrial program offerings with locally is an important work with our community Management. regional and global mar- initiative to serve area to invest in the next gen- “I discovered my pas- ket needs.” companies. A significant eration who wish to stay in the community and

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The first two years of over 275 Penn State degrees! 80948733 Visit scranton.psu.edu or call 570.963.2500 for more information. E17

Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Penn state Wilkes-Barre Sunday, December 29, 2019 17 Dale Jones, Penn State Wilkes-Barre Penn State Wilkes-Barre leader looking to grow campus

Dale Jones has been Chancellor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre for three years. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader By Geri Gibbons For Times Leader EHMAN TWP. – In the three years that Dr. Dale Jones has been at the helm of Penn State Wilkes-Barre, he has focused ​Lon providing students with a life-changing education which will set the course for lifelong learning. “I believed learning is and administrators — are me discovering my pas- Administration of Justice a lifelong venture, from privileged to be able to sion – higher education in degree offers the flexibil- birth through our adult positively prepare our all the forms it has taken ity for pursuit of a vari- lives,” he said. “We work nation’s youth for tomor- over the course of my ety of law enforcement to provide the educational row’s challenges.” career, including comple- careers on the federal, resources to serve the Jones is also aware that tion of a doctoral degree, state and local level, as Name: Dale Jones lifelong learning needs of both success and failure legislative director in the well as those as correc- our community.” often positively impact U.S. House of Represen- tions officers and other Jones is committed to the trajectory of our lives. tatives, professor and court-related fields. Title: Chancellor at Penn State getting to know students, “A situation that has administrator roles at five A two-year program, equipping them academi- stuck with me is when I universities and my cur- titled “Surveying Engi- Wilkes-Barre cally and as part of the applied for and was not rent position with Penn neering Technology” local, national and global selected for a special Air State. “ degree equips students as community. Force position I prepared Jones is quick to point land surveyors in gather- Quote:” I engage with students “My passion is help- extensively to achieve,” out the quality of the ing and implementing in ways that help develop them ing our students become he said. “In response to nine bachelor’s degree data, using a variety of responsible citizens, the disappointment, I set and four associate degree methods. into Penn State graduates who well-educated employees new goals, redoubled my opportunities at the cam- The four-year program, are persons of character, possess and ethical community efforts and transferred to pus. goes into greater depth in a strong sense of responsibility, leaders to keep our nation the Air Force Academy to The university is espe- the legal and professional strong,” he said. “I am a be an instructor of politi- cially excited about two aspects of land surveying, think of what is best for their firm believer that all of cal science and interna- of those programs: a and covers subjects which communities, act with civility, and us at Penn State Wilkes- tional affairs. new degree program in include image analysis, Barre — faculty, staff This new path led to Administration of Justice geographic information treat others with respect” and systems and land subdivi- both sion design. a two- Simply stated, the and Surveying Engineering four- Technology program is approach, determined sibility, think of what is year designed to provide the attitude and actions with best for their communi- degree technicians for the indus- integrity,” he said. “As an ties, act with civility, and in the try, whereas the Survey- administrator and educa- treat others with respect,” field ing Engineering program tor, these are qualities I he said. “Successful lead- of Sur- is designed to produce strive to pass on to stu- ers recognize and appre- veying the professionals for the dents.” ciate that they received Engi- field. Jones believes that stu- help along the way, and I neer- Jones strives to instill a dents should go beyond in turn want to give that ing. sense of pride in students just academic or career back to our students as The regarding their experi- success. the chancellor of Penn ence at the university, “I engage with students State Wilkes-Barre.” making them lifelong in ways that help develop Penn Staters. them into Penn State “During my career, I graduates who are per- have relied upon an opti- sons of character, possess mistic outlook, resilient a strong sense of respon- Times Leader Media Group is proud to support the many prestigious colleges and universities in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. Some of the Times Leader’s most stand-out employees - from the newsroom to advertising to circulation and beyond - have succeeded because of the education they received in these schools.

As we begin a New Year, the Times Leader thanks these schools for the efforts they have made to better our communities and our residents. E18

18 Sunday, December 29, 2019 PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: The university of scranton Times Leader Rev. Scott Pilarz, University of Scranton

Submitted photo Father Scott Pilarz By Patrick Kernan [email protected] CRANTON — The Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., is currently about a year-and-a-half into his second tour of duty Sas president of the University of Scranton, having taken over as the 27th president in July 2018. And under Pilarz’s educational system. mechanical engineering, watch, there are some big “The Center will which will begin next fall. things happening at the advance the University’s “Enthusiasm from university. liberal arts tradition and prospective students and Pilarz, who previously enhance the core role it their parents is always a served as the university’s plays in the formation welcome sign for a uni- 24th president between of our students to truly versity,” he said. 2003 and 2011, previ- become ‘men and women Another recent pro- ously told a Times Leader for others,’” Pilarz said. gram, called THR1VE, reporter about the uni- This fall, the center is focused on supporting Name: Rev. Scott Pilarz versity’s commitment to launched a Humani- first-generation students, education and the region. ties in Action Lecture which seeks to improve This year, Pilarz high- Series, kicking things off student readiness, help- Title: President of the University of lighted a few programs with a talk from Denis ing students cope with Scranton at the school which show McDonough, the former the various challenges of that effort off. Chief of Staff to President university life. One such program is Barack Obama. “We have and are con- Quote: “We have and are the Slattery Center for “More lectures, pro- tinuing to put in place a the Humanities, an initia- gram development, fel- number of programs to continuing to put in place a tive Pilarz called “dear to lowships and community enhance the transformi- number of programs to enhance (his) heart.” outreach programs with tive experience our stu- the transformitive experience our Established in May special emphasis on dents receive at Scranton 2019, the Gail and Fran- students are planned for and keep the education students receive at Scranton and cis Slattery Center is 2020,” Pilarz said. we provide affordable to keep the education we provide named for the chair of Additionally, Pilarz said families,” Pilarz said. the university’s board of the University of Scran- affordable to families.” trustees, James M. Slat- ton is excited to begin tery. According to Pilarz, offering two new majors: the center plays an inte- business analytics, which gral role in the school’s began in the fall, and

Times Leader Media Group is proud to support the many prestigious colleges and universities in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties. Some of the Times Leader’s most stand-out employees - from the newsroom to advertising to circulation and beyond - have succeeded because of the education they received in these schools.

As we begin a New Year, the Times Leader thanks these schools for the efforts they have made to better our communities and our residents. E19

Times Leader PRESIDENTIAL PROFILES: Wilkes University Sunday, December 29, 2019 19 Paul Adams, Wilkes University

Paul Adams, interim Wilkes University President. Aimee Dilger | Times Leader

By Bill O’Boyle [email protected] ILKES-BARRE — In the one year-plus that Paul Adams has served as the interim President of Wil- Wkes University, he said his main objective during the transition has been to “keep the train running.” And Adams, 64, has our goals,” Adams said. ate of Binghamton City potential. campus’ infrastructure strengthen and diversify done just that. “Wilkes’ greatest days School District. “Central to this com- and program capac- our ability to generate While Wilkes con- lie ahead. Using this Adams said Wilkes mitment is a faculty ity will determine how and manage resources,” ducted its search for its plan as a framework, we invested nearly $8 who, first and foremost, much the university can Adams said. seventh president — Dr. engage our challenging million in new ath- value excellence in grow, it is critical that Driven by a sense of Greg Cant was recently and exciting future with letic fields at the Ralston teaching and learning,” the Wilkes maximize its community respon- announced as Patrick a clear sense of direction Athletic Complex. Adams said. “With an its opportunities to sibility and a business Leahy’s successor — the and how we invest our The project includes emphasis on individual- increase enrollment at imperative, Adams said a multi-purpose ized attention and aca- the undergraduate and Wilkes must be a force turf field that will demic excellence, the graduate level,” Adams for positive economic be used for men’s university’s values of said. development, making and women’s soc- mentorship, scholarship, Adams said Wilkes Wilkes-Barre an increas- cer, men’s and diversity, innovation and hopes to continue to ingly attractive option women’s lacrosse community will guide grow its enrollment, for current and prospec- and women’s field the student experience hopefully recruiting tive students, faculty, hockey. It also in and out of the class- more than 30% of its staff, and alumni. Name: Paul Adams includes a new room.” students from outside “When Wilkes actively turf baseball field. Adams said faculty, Pennsylvania. He also engages in our city, we Interim President, Wilkes Due to a lead- staff, and alumni are sin- said the school hopes to affect not only those Title: ership gift from gle most important asset increase its international whom we touch, but University Wilkes alumnus in transforming the lives student market as a way ourselves as well.,” Robert Brugge- of students. to diversify the campus Adams said. “Driven worth ’83, the new “Therefore, Wilkes and reduce reliance on by our commitment to Quote: “When Wilkes actively fields are named must recruit, retain, and mature recruiting mar- community engagement, engages in our city, we affect not only Bruggeworth Field develop its faculty and kets. Wilkes has developed those whom we touch, but ourselves at Ralston Athletic staff members, as well He also said Wilkes relationships with our Complex. as engage alumni in sup- hopes to develop strong region’s strongest pri- as well. Driven by our commitment Adams said Wil- port of our students and articulation agreements vate and public organiza- to community engagement, Wilkes kes will continue programs,” Adams said. with four Pennsylvania tions, creating synergies to build programs In a market character- two-year colleges to that afford our students has developed relationships with our that transform the ized by intense competi- grow new transfer stu- opportunities to prepare region’s strongest private and public lives of the stu- tion and unrelenting dents to 300 per year for the roles they will organizations, creating synergies that dents it serves. He challenges, Adams said and build a support assume throughout their said at the center Wilkes must recruit, structure that assures lives and careers. As an afford our students opportunities to of a Wilkes educa- retain, graduate, and readiness. anchor in the center of prepare for the roles they will assume tion is a commit- place students to maxi- “As an enrollment- Wilkes-Barre, Wilkes ment to academic mize the transformative dependent university must continue to be an throughout their lives and careers.” programs that impact, while growing where cost of attendance aesthetic, cultural, intel- reflect the highest in a way that supports will increasingly influ- lectual and economic university was left in the resources.” standards, and challenge Wilkes’ mission and ence enrollment deci- resource and influence.” capable hands of Adams, Before being named students to achieve value. sions, Wilkes must who was quick to credit interim president, beyond their perceived “Recognizing that the his colleagues, staff Adams served as Vice and students for their President of Student dedicated endeavors in Affairs, a a title he held the best interests of the since 2002, overseeing university. all aspects of student “Wilkes has had a lot life including athletics; of success on the aca- health and wellness; resi- demic side and we have dence life and judicial improved the campus, affairs. He also oversaw adding to the charac- student development, ter of the university,” which includes career Adams said. “And we development and intern- continue to build our ships, student activities, financial strength as we campus interfaith, com- continue to implement munity service, e-men- our strategic plan.” toring and orientation. Gateway to the Future: Adams received his The Wilkes University Bachelor of Arts and Strategic Plan began in Master of Science in 2014 and runs through Education from Wilkes, 2020. Adams said the and earned his Ph.D. in plan is “firmly rooted” in Organizational Leader- the university’s mission, ship and Curriculum vision and values. Instruction from the “This plan guides our University of Penn- prioritization, informs sylvania. He is also a the development of our graduate of Harvard budget and includes University’s Institute for an agreed-upon set of the Management of Life- performance indicators long Education. In 2011, with which we gauge Dr. Adams was named Aimee Dilger | Times Leader our progress toward a Distinguished Gradu- Paul Adams, interim Wilkes University President, in his office at Weckesser Hall. E20 80948959