Luzerne County Community College Bridge Anniversary issue 2017

The

Bridge

2017 Anniversary Edition

50 Years Strong J

ohn Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you while you are busy making other plans.”

My “other plans” were to go to law school. What happened to me was Luzerne County Community College.

I was 25 years old and a graduate of King’s College with a degree in history and political science, typical of someone planning a career in law, when I was offered a job as a recruiter at the community college. It was 1975 Thomas P. Leary, and to be honest, I did not know much LCCC President about the college which was only eight years old at the time. I knew the college had just moved to their new location in Nanticoke but not much more.

Still, I was intrigued. My plans (there’s that word again) were to take the job and maybe spend a year or two to gain experience working with people, speaking in front of groups, and that sort of thing. I thought it would be good for my resume.

I had never been to Nanticoke and even had to ask for directions to get here. After I arrived, I met the people I would be working with and I knew instantly this was a good place for me.

I assumed the title “admissions assistant” and reported to Director of Admissions Mike Kwak, an absolutely wonderful human being who had been a high school basketball star at Nanticoke and would later become superintendent of Nanticoke schools. If it was personal growth I was looking for, I knew I’d get plenty of it working under him.

There was a recruiting assistant already on the job. His name was Francis Curry. I admired his energy and enthusiasm right from the start and he never lost either during his entire career here. Also, we had George McCutcheon, who was Director of Recruiting, and who would go on to become an LCCC legend. We were located in Building 5 which I never left and never wanted to leave.

Law school was still on my mind but I could feel it slipping to the back burner. Part of the allure of becoming a lawyer was an opportunity to help the underdog, to be a voice for folks who needed one, and I guess I recognized an opportunity to do the same for the community college.

From the minute I set foot on campus, I became impressed with the hard work and dedication of the faculty and staff and their desire to help their students succeed. I knew this was a good place and an important place, but I also became painfully aware that the college was vastly underappreciated in the region and especially among the established four-year institutions. It wasn’t right and it wasn’t fair, and I hoped I could do something about it. In short, I knew we needed to get the word out. We had to find a way to let people know how we could serve them.

I believed we had the perfect team to do it with George, Mike, and Francis. Then, about two and a half years into it, Mike was offered the position at Nanticoke. At first, I considered applying for the director’s position, but the college brought in Patricia Burke from College Misericordia

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and it was the best thing that could have happened. She had excellent ideas about recruitment, admission and registration and I learned so much in the two or three years we worked together.

When Patricia announced she was leaving and would be moving to Altoona, the Director of Admissions position was offered to me and I knew I was ready. It was 1980 and Tom Moran had just been named President of the College. I truly believed the community college was poised to take off.

We were gaining the respect of the community. The next big hurdle was to win the respect of the four-year colleges and universities.

The challenge was a matter of legitimacy. We had to get our credits, and more importantly our graduates, accepted by those four-year schools. Our graduates were impressive, that I knew. We had to get everyone else to know it, too, and as the ‘80s unfolded, that became more of my focus. Our students, our graduates, made it easy.

Fortunately, in Mr. Moran we had a president who was as student-centered as I was and under him we were growing exponentially. By 1983, he approached me about becoming Dean of Students, but with his sense of fiscal responsibility, said we could not fill my old admissions position. I would have to do both jobs. So at 32 years old I became LCCC’s Dean of Admissions and Student Affairs.

Mostly importantly, I was now in a position to really help students and to institute policies to ensure student success.

The College was growing and it was growing because we were totally invested in our students. Across the board, we instituted a culture of saying “yes”. We were flexible. We would do everything we could to get a student enrolled and to help that student find the means to pay. If we were going to have the “open door” policy our charter called for, we had to live that every day. And we did. And we still do.

“Our job is to help people.” It might sound kind of corny, but when I think of helping people during the many years that I have been here and the 50 years of the College, I think what we’ve done is to make a difference. That’s what we’ve done.

We’ve helped students, we’ve helped families, we’ve helped the community, and we’ve made an immeasurable difference in life in Luzerne County and Northeastern Pennsylvania.

I’ve played only a small part in all of this, but I’m not sure I could have done as much had I become the lawyer I set out to be.

The life I’ve lived was not the one that I had planned, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

The past fifty years have been an incredible journey for the college. The future is even more promising and exciting. The college

is the hope for so many in our region to change the quality of their lives.

We plan to provide many different paths for our neighbors to pursue their aspirations and realize their dreams. We are the College of the Community of Northeastern Pennsylvania and we will continue to serve each student in the best possible way.

Table of Contents 2.

President’s Message

3.

Commentary - Unvarsky ‘86

4.

LCCC 50 Year History

12. Scranton Center Opening 13. Bill Camp Reflections 14. Francis Curry Reflections 15. Teddi Janosov Reflections 16. Powerful Degree NET 18. Making Fantasy Real

50 Years of Excellence in Education

Luzerne County Community College is kicking off its 50th Anniversary Year. As the former Chair of the Board of Trustees, and a graduate of the College, it’s my honor to have served on this Board as we celebrate 50 years of providing an affordable and accessible education Susan E. Unvarsky ‘86 to the community.

As Trustees, we volunteer our time because we all want to give back to a community that we love. And we all have at least one thing in common -- the best interest of the institution.

We are proud of our graduates, for all that they have accomplished, which we know at times has not been easy. Many are traditional students and many are first generation college students who are blazing a path for family members that come after them. Among our graduates are those who have had the stress of balancing work and family obligations, as well as individuals who are parents who found themselves out of work and needed to be courageous enough to pursue a different career path. Many struggled with limited resources, but somehow found the money to pay for tuition, books, and transportation to class.

The mission of community colleges is to serve those in the community in which they exist. Community colleges make education affordable and accessible. We are open admission and tasked with helping

individuals from all walks of life to not only survive, but to thrive. I am proud of the fact that everyone is welcome at LCCC.

Luzerne County Community College has been educating our region for nearly 50 years and has produced some of the best and brightest in the community. Whether we are small business entrepreneurs or big business executives, technology innovators or teachers, truck drivers or artists, paramedics or nurses -- we keep northeastern Pennsylvania alive and thriving. And our reach of graduates goes well beyond our region -- we represent some of the best in their professions around the world.

I am proud to call myself a graduate of Luzerne County Community College. As I spoke at the College’s graduation last May, where more than 800 students walked across the stage, I told them whether they are moving on to become an accountant, a journalist or a firefighter, to go do it with the intention of being the best in their field and to show everyone out there how Luzerne County Community College has made our community, and our world, a better place. This is something our students having been doing for the past 50 years and will continue far into the future!

20. Hungry Ambition 21. Arthur Miller in Focus 23. Alumni Events - 2016 24. Alumni Class Notes/ Announcements 25. 2017 Events Calendar 26. Vietnam Vets Honored 27. In Memoriam/Retirements 28. Annual Report of Gifts

Credits

Contributing writers & editors Robert Bogdon Bonnie Lauer ‘87 Lisa Nelson Sandra A. Nicholas Kathy Goeringer Thomas P. Leary Susan E. Unvarsky ‘86

Photography

Mark James ‘96 LCCC Archives Contributed photos

Layout and Design Robert Bogdon

Susan E. Unvarsky ‘86 is the Chief Operating Officer of Prudential Retirement and a 1986 graduate of Luzerne County Community College. She is the past Chair of the College’s Board of Trustees.

Luzerne County Community College 1333 South Prospect Street, Nanticoke, PA 18634 • 1-800-377-5222 • www.luzerne.edu

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Luzerne County Community College Celebrates 50 years of Education 4

Bold Idea Leads to Major Accomplishment

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t all started with a bold idea: create a higher education institution whose mission is to provide affordable and accessible education for all who desire to learn regardless of wealth, heritage, or previous academic experience. The idea for a publicly funded, broadbased higher education institution actually began in the early 1900s and took many years for the idea to really take foothold and become a wide spread reality. In the early ‘60s, legislators started drafting bills to establish the nation’s first community college system. Governor William Scranton signed into law the Community College Act of 1963 creating Pennsylvania’s community college system. Local communities petitioned the Pennsylvania State Board of Education to sponsor and establish community colleges in the Commonwealth.

Each college needed a local sponsor, which may be a city, county, individual school district or consortium of these entities. Luzerne County Community College became a reality on December 15, 1965 when the Luzerne County Commis-

Elks Building on River Street in Wilkes-Barre is selected as the temporary location for the new Luzerne County Community College. Classes begin October 2, 1967. sioners adopted a resolution agreeing to act as sponsor of a two year-college.

The commissioners appointed the County Board of School Directors to survey the needs of high school students and local employers. By September 15, 1966, the Pennsylvania Board of Education, on information presented by the commissioners, approved the plan for the college.

And so Luzerne County Community College formally began operations on October 2, 1967. The first class of 836 students attended classes in two buildings in downtown Wilkes-Barre located near the Hotel Sterling. The college offered 11 programs at the time with tuition at only $12.50 per credit.

“There was a lot of excitement in 1967,” August “Augie” Piazza ‘69 recounted. “The amazing influx of students were googley-eyed at this new college in downtown Wilkes-Barre.” Piazza said the affordable tuition was an initial reason he was interested in LCCC. Once he started at the College, Piazza said he and his fellow classmates were very impressed by the professors. “They were very caring and helpful in making sure we truly

The Luzerne County Board of Commissioners request approval from the PA State Board of Education to sponsor a community college.

Permission is granted from the PA Board of Education allowing the Luzerne County Board of Commissioners to establish and operate a community college.

LCCC formally begins operation as the Trustees hold their first meeting and elect officers.

Guy V. Ferrell is appointed the College’s first President.

LCCC opens its doors for the first time with 836 students attending classes in Wilkes-Barre.

Tuition is $12.50 per credit.

The freshmen and sophomore women of LCCC challenge each other to a game of “Powder Puff Football” at Kirby Park.

August 17, 1966

September 15, 1966

November 7, 1966

October 2, 1967

1968

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learned from their class,” Piazza said. “Even when I visit LCCC now, that caring and friendly attitude is still there.”

The Main Campus Building, located at 19-21 North River Street, housed classrooms, laboratories, the library, faculty and administrative offices, and the bookstore. The Student Center Building, located a few doors down at 63 North River Street, held the counseling staff, seminar and conference rooms, laboratories, canteen, and offices.

The health and physical education program utilized the facilities of the Catholic Youth Center and Jewish Community Center for physical education programs. Students also used the swimming pool in the neighboring Hotel Sterling.

LCCC’s athletic teams, the Minutemen and Minutemaids, participated in swimming, basketball and wrestling at the YMCA.

The College couldn’t have arrived at a better time. As the coal industry jobs in northeastern Pennsylvania faded away, the area became a hotbed of various new businesses and industries that needed employees well trained in new technologies and trades. LCCC offered the education companies needed for their employees. With an open admission policy, low tuition, numerous academic and technical programs, and the commitment to provide a quality education to anyone who had the desire to pursue a higher education, the idea quickly caught on.

“In 1967, I was a young man with a great deal of ambition but limited financial means,” said Leonard V. Shimko. “It wasn’t easy getting my Associate Degree in Accounting. I held down a full-time job as well as being a full-time student.

Earning my degree and becoming a member of

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(above) LCCC Cheerleaders pose in front campus building. (left) LCCC Student Center is the second building in Wilkes-Barre. the first graduating class of LCCC was one of the greatest moments of my life.” Shimko is the retired CEO and President of Cross Valley Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in the Wyoming Valley.

Class size nearly doubled the second year. By the fall of 1968, enrollment totaled 1,500 and in 1969, the first 210 students graduated.

Congressman Daniel J. Flood delivered LCCC’s first commencement speech.

Dr. Sheldon Spear, professor emeritus at LCCC remembers the College’s first graduation. “It was held in the unairconditioned Irem Temple on Wilkes-Barre’s North Franklin Street on an unseasonably muggy evening,” he said. “We sat there, students and faculty, in our caps and gowns (worn, in the case of men, over buttoned jackets and fastened neckties), while several administrators and band members droned on endlessly. Fortunately, the guest speaker was Congressman Dan Flood who, after quickly praising the graduates, exclaimed: ‘It’s hot. Now let’s get the hell out of here!’ And we did.”

Brooke Yeager was hired in the Fall of 1968, as a biology professor to a new concept in higher education — ­ a community college.

“The idea of a community college was quite a bit different,” Yeager said. “We were the new kid on the block.” Yeager started out at the College’s original Wilkes-Barre campus.

“Most of the faculty were quite young in their late 20’s and early 30’s. It was a different world

LCCC Drama Club holds its first performance with Edward Albee’s “The American Dream” with favorable reviews.

After weeks of using Kirby Park, students receive a lot beneath Kingston side of the Market Street Bridge.

210 students received diplomas at LCCC’s first graduation at the Irem Temple in Wilkes-Barre.

The LCCC Hotel & Restaurant Management Program establishes a cooperative agreement with Cornell University.

Joel Kislin wins the NJCAA heavyweight championship in Worthington, MN. W. Brooke Yeager, III coached the wrestling team.

1968

1968

June 12, 1969

1971

1971

dents of Luzerne County. The Building Committee finally then.” Yeager reflected, “The Vietnam War settled on a site. was going on, registration was done using

In January 1974, the College moved to its permanila cards, and there were no computers, manent 122-acre campus in Nanticoke. The campus copy machines, or voice mail.” consisted of eight buildings designed with the latest

During the College’s first five years, LCCC technology and ample classroom space to handle the served more than 5,000 students. The two rising student population. buildings were becoming more and more

“When I was in high school, I had an interest in cramped and the College expanded to a construction and architecture, but wanted to underthird building, the Technical Annex on North stand it better before I devoted my entire life to it,” said Main Street in Wilkes-Barre in 1971. The ComCharles Consagra ‘74. “I enrolled in the Architecture missioners created the Luzerne County ComProgram at LCCC and learned a tremendous amount munity College Building Committee to begin about the work involved in the field. I continued my planning for a permanent campus. education after LCCC and received my degree in Ar Then in June 1972, Hurricane Agnes, passed over northeastern Pennsylvania bring- Brooke Yeager chitecture from Boston Architectural College. My LCCC teacher even helped me find my first job.” Consagra is a ing heavy rains and a devastating flood principal with Highland Associates in Clark Summit. from the overflowing Susquehanna River. Many LCCC

students, faculty, and staff assisted with the sandbagging efforts to hold back the surging river. However, the Susquehanna River broke through and the College, located along the river, saw flood waters reach up to the second floors. Everyone eventually pitched in to help with the clean up and recovery efforts. This included shoveling mud and debris from the buildings. “After the College opened back up in October, our library sudThe Minuteman denly became very popular,” recalled Mary Dolon, ’74. (and “Because the library was on the third floor, it was one of Minutemaid) the few libraries in the area that wasn’t destroyed in is adopted as the flood.” the official Quickly outgrowing its head- mascot of quarters in Wilkes-Barre, LCCC the College’s embarked on a plan to find a Athletic permanent location. The College programs. wanted a space for expansion that was conveniently located for all resi-

Flood waters caused

by Hurricane Agnes severely destroy LCCC’s Wilkes-Barre facilities.

Fall classes do not begin until October.

Rep. Daniel J. Flood announces the awarding of a $632,756 grant to help fund the construction of two buildings on the new LCCC campus located in Nanticoke.

LCCC begins a two-year Associate Degree Program in Nursing.

LCCC opens its permanent Main Campus site on 122-acres in Nanticoke.

The new facility consists of eight buildings.

LCCC christened its new gymnasium with a win over Lackawanna Jr. College before 1,000 fans.

June 23, 1972

June 13, 1973

Fall 1973

January 1974

November 1974

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More spacious and newer buildings and facilities greeted the students at Main Campus in Nanticoke. Many students wondered how the College could possibly fill all the new buildings.

By the end of the decade, LCCC’s offerings grew to Associate’s Degrees in 13 Liberal Arts programs and 15 Technical-Career programs. The late ‘70s saw the LCCC School of Nursing awarded formal accreditation by the National League for Nursing and ribbon cutting for the new Medical Arts Complex (Building 9).

LCCC’s athletic teams excelled throughout LCCC’s history. A huge crowd greeted the women’s basketball team at the airport on its return home from Overland Park, Kan(above) Groundbreaking ceremony on January 3, 1973 sas after competing in the NJCAA National Tournament in 1978. The team, under the direction of Ruby Steele Carmon, for LCCC’s new campus in Nanticoke, PA. The groundbreaking kicked off the first phase of construction finished in 5th place after beating teams from Wyoming, on the site.

Kansas, Arizona, and Texas. LCCC also began to participate intercollegiately in men’s and women’s and coed volleyball. (below) Newly completed Main Campus in 1974

The campus continued to expand in the ‘80s to meet shortly after the beginning of classes. the increased educational needs of the area. An Educational Conference Center was constructed to meet the needs of business and industry and offer additional space to hold continuing education classes. With the addition of an $8 million, 85,000 sq. ft., Advanced Technology Center in 1988, the College offered an array of high-technology programs such as robotics, engineering, automotive, motorsports, broadcast communications and laser-electro optics.

The College’s Dental Clinic opened to the public for the first time in 1981.

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A Day Care Center opens on campus operated by Child Development Council of NEPA, accommodated 15 pre-schoolers and 12 toddlers.

The LCCC Alumni Association formally holds its first meeting.

LCCC begins its 10th year as classes begin for the fall term.

Groundbreaking ceremonies are conducted for construction of the $1.6 million Dental/Nursing facility (building 9).

Alumni Association hosts its annual Dinner Dance at the Regency Room of the American Legion Post Home located on River Street in Wilkes-Barre.

1974

November 6, 1975

August 23, 1976

August 5, 1977

November 11, 1977

LCCC’s Building Authority poses with a check to fund several buildings on the new LCCC campus. William Davidowitz, (6th from left, standing) building authority member, said he was amazed at the size and scope of the new campus. “Going from two buildings in WilkesBarre to a large sprawling campus was amazing.”

(above) Advanced Technology Center (ATC) under construction in 1987.

Veteran men’s basketball coach, Jim Atherton won his 500th career victory in 1989.

During the early 1990s, Telecollege classes were offered for the first time on WVIA and the Alumni Association held its first Craft Fair.

Enrollment in 1992 reached a high of 7,450 full and part-time credit students and 8,000 non credit students.

Luzerne County Community College began a large scale expansion and remodeling project in the late 1990s. A 13,000 square foot addition to the Advanced Technology Building was completed to house the Commercial Art Department, including studios, lecture rooms, computer labs, and photography studios and darkrooms. The new Business and Computer Center took over the previous Student Center in Building 7.

The Library received a new look and technology. And a new $8 million Campus Center opened in the Fall of 1998 housing the bookstore, fitness center, student lounge, cafeteria, student activities, counseling services, support services, and the President’s office. The number of buildings at the Main Campus reached fourteen. The College introduced a new logo in 1998, changing the College colors from red, blue, and white to teal and navy. LCCC sports teams changed names from the Minutemen/Minutemaids to the Trailblazers.

New Campus Center completed in 1998, houses bookstore, fitness center, cafeteria, game room, student activities/athletics, and counseling.

34 LCCC female students model in the “Dressing for College” fashion show conducted at the Pomeroy’s Community Room.

The women’s basketball team easily defeats the University of Scranton, 79-55, undefeated at 18-0 & places 5th in NJCAA National Tournament one month later.

LCCC hosts the PA Forensics Association State Championships.

LCCC is the only 2-year institution participant among the 20 colleges entered.

TACKLE program started at the College.

Students may now receive credit for “life experiences.”

LCCC School of Nursing is awarded formal accreditation by the National League for Nursing - 94 students graduated from the nursing program.

December 7, 1977

February 23, 1978

March 31, 1978

Fall of 1978

1978

9

LCCC acquired additional property in the late ‘90s along Prospect Street, and built the new Public Safety Training Institute, bringing the total acreage to 167-acres.

In the early 2000s, Luzerne County Community College began a more concentrated effort to expand offerings to underserved areas as per its mission. The College expanded its coverage area with offcampus sites at area high schools and new dedicated sites throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. New dedicated centers opened in Hazleton, Berwick, Shamokin, Kulpmont, and downtown Wilkes-Barre. As the Internet world developed, Blaze Trailblazer is LCCC dropped its Telecollege adopted as the new mascot in 2008. video courses in favor of distance learning classes offered online.

The Schulman Gallery, the College’s first named facility, opened in the Campus Center in 2006. The new gallery premiered with the Old Masters student art exhibit. The Public Safety Training Institute opened on April 25, 2008 with a dedication ceremony and parade.

In 2010, LCCC expanded its Main Campus into downtown Nanticoke with the opening of the new Culinary facility named the Joseph A. Paglianite Culinary Institute. The following year the College opened the Francis S. and Mary

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Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center. Classes in the building began in the fall 2011 semester.

Although high school students taking college classes had been around for some time, LCCC’s Early College program generated a larger scope reaching more than 36 surrounding schools of students taking LCCC classes while still in high school.

In August of 2016, LCCC opened it newest off-site facility with the Scranton Center located in The MarketThe infamous “STEPS” of Building 5 place at Steamtown.

Today, the college boasts more than 32,000 degreebearing alumni. LCCC currently offers 82 occupational programs (includes degree, certificate, and diploma programs), 24 liberal arts/ transfer programs and 10 credit-free career training programs as well as hundreds of conferences, seminars, workshops, and business/industry customized training.

Medical Arts Complex (Building 9) formally dedicated and ribbon cutting ceremonies conducted.

For the first time in its history, LCCC will participate intercollegiately in men’s and women’s and co-ed volleyball.

LCCC enters into a written articulation agreement with 11 four-year colleges for the purpose of allowing graduates to get a baccalaureate degree.

The LCCC Dental Clinic is opened to the public.

The $2 Million Educational Conference Center opens its doors for the first time to the general public.

April 26, 1979

December 1979

October 20, 1980

January 18, 1981

July 1981

Luzerne County Community College is the largest college in northeastern Pennsylvania and continues to expand and adapt to the educational needs of the residents and business and industry in the Wyoming Valley. The staff and faculty of LCCC will always continue their dedication to the students and alumni of northeastern Pennsylvania as we have over the past 50 years.

LCCC Foundation, Inc. is established.

The first issue of the student newspaper, The Outlook, is published.

LCCC receives approval for its Phlebotomy Training Program which is run through Continuing Education.

The Community College begins to offer telecourses broadcast on television though a joint agreement with WVIA.

The College breaks ground for construction of the $7.9 million Advanced Technology Center.

1982

December 11, 1984

December 13, 1984

May 18, 1985

August 27, 1987

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LCCC Opens Scranton Center

Luzerne County Community College opened its newest center in The Marketplace at Steamtown in downtown Scranton this past August. The new LCCC Scranton Center is the first dedicated LCCC site in Lackawanna County.

The Center offers both day and evening classes for residents of Lackawanna and surrounding counties. LCCC started offering classes in the Center on August 29, 2016. Located in the top floor of the former Bon-Ton Department Store, the 13-classroom facility offers 14 degrees in Business, Accounting, Human Services, Social Science, Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Medical Reimbursement & Coding Specialist, Medical Office Specialist, and General Studies.

"As Northeastern Pennsylvania's Community College, our mission is to offer an affordable, accessible and quality college education to anyone who has the desire to advance their learning and careers," says Thomas P. Leary, LCCC President. "To meet that need, Luzerne County Community

From left: Thomas P. Leary, president of LCCC, and Father Kevin P. Quinn, S.J., president of The University of Scranton sign dual admissions agreement

College has opened dedicated centers throughout our coverage area of Northeastern Pennsylvania.”

The Scranton site will allow the college to have “traditional” semesters as well as seven-week class schedules.

The Center offers students seeking transfer to a four-year college many of the core or general education courses needed. Recently, LCCC and The University of Scranton entered into a Dual Admission Agreement to facilitate the transfer of LCCC graduates to the university to complete their bachelor’s degree.

Michelle Ide, (shown below) the director of the Scranton Extension Center, started with the first day of classes at the Scranton Center. Michelle has worked in higher education for more than 18 years.

LCCC looked at more than 30 sites throughout Lackawanna County before settling on this unique site within a shopping mall. The new site offers free parking, plus all the benefits found in the newly revived Marketplace like retail stores, fitness center, places to eat, and access to the downtown shops.

Plus, The Marketplace at Steamtown is located adjacent to the city’s COLTS bus terminal making it easier for students throughout Lackawanna County to access college classes.

The Broadcast Communications Department announces it will be “going on the air!”

The College celebrates its 20th Anniversary.

Veteran basketball coach Jim Atherton wins his 500th career victory.

LCCC Alumni Association holds its first annual Craft Fair.

LCCC goes “smoke free” in all of its buildings.

October 14, 1987

October 24, 1987

February 8, 1989

October 1990

January 1, 1994

1212

My Memories

D

r. Bill Camp has worked at Luzerne County Community College for almost all of its 50-year existence.

“While taking classes at Columbia University and simultaneously teaching in the South Bronx during the spring of 1968, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. There was a great deal of civil unrest in New York City. I decided to look for a teaching Dr. Bill Camp position outside the metropolitan area,” Bill says. “An advertisement in the New York Times listed a position at a new community college in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. An application lead to an interview, and then a job offer.”

Bill commuted to Columbia once a week for the fall semester and decided he would rather live in Boston. “However, I then met the most beautiful girl I had ever encountered,” he says. “She lived in Pittston and we eventually got married.

Then northeastern Pennsylvania became my home.”

Bill notes there was a collegial atmosphere in his early days of teaching at the College’s original campus in WilkesBarre including faculty meetings, book clubs, and an active faculty organization. “I remember walking across the Market Street Bridge in the snow and sleet to get to class,” he notes. As many others also recount, Bill also remembers the effect the Agnes Flood of 1972 had on the College. “Agnes put a damper on academic activities. Everyone pitched in to clean up damaged homes and lots of mud in the College.

We were located only feet from the Susquehanna River and the flood changed Wyoming Valley and the College forever,” he says.

Bill also recalls moving to the College’s new campus in Nanticoke. “During the 1970’s, the College grew in enrollment and physical size. Land was purchased in Nanticoke, buildings were constructed and the College entered a new era,” Bill notes. When the College moved to the Nanticoke campus, his office, along with most other faculty members, was in the Gym. The basketball court was divided up into cubicles, each one having a desk, light, filing cabinet, and a chair.

“My ‘office’ was located right under a basketball hoop,” Bill remembers. “Luckily, this office arrangement was temporary.”

He remembers students traveling from all over northeastern Pennsylvania to the new campus and says, “I too did

Dr. Bill Camp some moving via the American Overseas Study Program.

American college students from all over the country spent eight weeks during the summer traveling throughout Western Europe. My job was to lecture on various topics as we traveled from one historical site to another. I have always enjoyed being in the classroom, but also loved that part of my job,” Bill says.

In 1976, Bill became the college coordinator for the American Bicentennial program. Seminars on campus and programs held throughout the county celebrated local involvement in American History. “Traveling to numerous political events during that year increased my interest in politics and social events,” Bill says. “At the same time, I entered into a Doctoral Program at Carnegie-Mellon University in Pittsburgh,” he adds.

“In 1984, I applied for and obtained a Fulbright Scholarship for a summer session in The Netherlands. The experience provided new insights to the culture, history and political activities of that country.” The honor of receiving this award advanced Bill’s position at the College to department chair, then to assistant academic dean. He later became an associate dean and then dean of academic affairs and finally provost and vice president of the College. Bill also served as acting president for three months culminating his upward movement in administration. Realizing that he missed the classroom and interaction with students, he returned to teaching in 1993 as a professor of social science/history.

“LCCC has been an interesting, academically stimulating, and challenging place to work over the past forty-nine years. I have appreciated the opportunity to teach here and trust that students with whom I have come in contact have benefited from our interaction over the years,” Bill says. “Teaching has been fun. Professors, like myself ask, as we age, why are we still ‘on the job?’ I have found that there is a real gratification as an educator, being connected to students and also colleagues. One of my prime goals had always been to support students in becoming independent-minded, empathetic citizens with skills and commitment to engage pressing issues of the day.”

Brigid Murray O’Connor becomes first female chairperson of the LCCC Board of Trustees.

New logo introduced at LCCC - College colors change from red, blue, and white to teal and navy. LCCC sports teams name becomes the Trailblazers.

LCCC builds 72,000 sq. ft. Campus Center, which holds the President’s Office, Bookstore, Student Clubs area, Cafeteria, and Counseling offices.

15,000 sq. ft. addition is added to Building 4 to house five new science labs, associated prep and storage areas, new faculty offices, and science classrooms.

LCCC’s first dedicated site, the Wilkes-Barre Center, opens in the renovated Pomeroy’s building on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre.

July 1, 1995

Fall 1998

Fall 1998

September 1998

April 26, 1999

13

My Memories

Francis Curry has many ties to Luzerne County Community College.

He is a graduate of the Class of 1971, an active member of the LCCC Alumni Association, a retired employee, and a current member of the College’s Board of Trustees.

“When I attended classes in WilkesBarre, there were two buildings. I used to refer to it as the north campus and south campus of the College,” Francis jokes. “I would study at the Hotel Sterling and then go downtown for lunch.

Francis Curry ‘71 You could get anything there from a full dinner to a hot dog.” Francis continues, “I started classes at 3 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Before class, I went to a downtown restaurant for a full meal for 99 cents.

The next semester, they raised it to $1.09! I was upset! The greatest experience I had in college was my first two years at Luzerne. It gave me the opportunity, and the time and attention I needed to be successful. I would never have continued at a four-year college if I didn’t start at LCCC first,” Francis says.

Francis began working at LCCC in December 1974 as an assistant in the counseling department which focused a lot on recruiting. He transferred to the recruiting department the next year and worked in admissions and recruiting with George McCutcheon, who he considers his mentor. “We started a nontraditional, innovative recruiting technique of placing display racks in businesses and social service agencies in Luzerne County. We also actively recruited at area malls and employment offices (now PA CareerLinks),” Francis says. “We expanded our outreach to high schools and grew from 30 to about 100 highs school visits through northeastern and central PA. We saw an amazing 10 year enrollment growth.”

Francis helped create many of the clubs and activities which exist at the College today. He served as advisor of the Circle K Club for many years and was named Outstanding Circle K Advisor in the state in 1986 and 1995.

He also started the NAACP student chapter and was recognized for establishing the first college chapter in the area in 2009. Francis also started the Adult Learners Association, Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, the Diversity Council, and the annual alumni vs. students and staff basketball

14

Francis Curry

game which is now in its 29th year. He also served on the first committee that started the annual Alumni Phonathon and initiated the College’s homeless outreach project.

One of the clubs closest to Francis’ heart is the Adult Learners Association. “I remember when the Middle States Accreditation Committee recommended the establishment of the Adult Learners Association in 1987 to assist adult students who were attending college. We held many adult information nights at our campus to make adult students aware of the services we provide. I think it made a difference with both students attending college and prospective students. It was also one of the first clubs to establish a student scholarship.”

Another important undertaking for Francis was the Diversity Council. It started in the mid 1980’s and was made up of college representatives, students, and community leaders who were interested in fostering diversity on campus and in the community. This led to Francis receiving the Diversity Leadership Award from the local chapter of the NAACP in 2009. “This was one of the greatest honors I have ever received,” Francis says.

He also began a homeless outreach initiative in 2011. The College entered into partnerships with local organizations to establish an outreach program for homeless individuals. College staff provided information on career training and credit and non-credit programs offered at LCCC to help people get back on their feet and enroll in college. “It was very fulfilling to know you were doing something positive and real to help combat the homeless problem in our area,” Francis says.

“The best part of my job, without a doubt, was working with the students. I’m glad that serving as a Board member gives me the opportunity to continue to interact with our students and to assist them.” Francis says he still enjoys talking with students and graduates that he meets in the community and finds it most gratifying when they thank him for his past efforts.

“The story that most stands out with me is from the 1980’s. We used to hold an arena registration and had hundreds of people in line to register for classes. One day, a young lady was trying to register and she was frustrated because the classes she wanted to take were filled. She started to cry and ran out of the building. I left the building and brought her back inside. She eventually got registered. I saw her about 15 years later in Wilkes-Barre and she thanked me for caring about her and making sure she didn’t give up. That is one of the best memories I have.”

Building 7 is renovated and dedicated as the new Business and Computer Center, housing CIS and Business programs and faculty.

Northumberland Regional Higher Education Center in Shamokin opens.

Hazleton Center opens for classes.

New site opens in Kulpmont dedicated to nursing program.

Center for Business Solutions developed to initiate customized training for business and industry.

July 1999

Fall 1999

Fall 2000

October 2001

February 2003

My Memories

Teddi Janosov won’t ever forget her first experience at Luzerne County Community College. “I was told by a friend who worked at the College that a job was available,” Teddi says. “I was called to come in for an interview and a typing test. I was put into a classroom where a class was in progress and the instructor was teaching. As he was teaching the Teddi Janosov class, he paused, looked at me and told me ‘Start!’ I began typing furiously. A few minutes later, he paused the class again and said ‘Stop!’ I was so nervous! But I passed the typing test and I got the job!”

That typing test began Teddi’s 46-year affiliation with LCCC. She began working at the College on her birthday in 1970 as a secretary in the counseling office which was located in the College’s student center building.

She then moved to the position of secretary to the student activities/athletic office and public relations office which was located in the dean’s office on the second floor of the Hotel Sterling Annex. Teddi says, “There was a back stairwell and a tunnel at the Annex that led to the Hotel Sterling coffee shop. It was like a dungeon. We used to go through the tunnel to get coffee and donuts on our breaks.”

Another memory that Teddi readily shares from her early days is of her experiences with handling incoming phone calls. “I remember when classified employees had to take turns working at the College’s switchboard. It was the old-time switchboard,” Teddi explains.

“It was hard to keep the wires straight and criss-cross them correctly.

I felt like Lily Tomlin! I’m sure a

Teddi Janosov

few calls went to the wrong places,” Teddi also remembers the College’s experience with the Agnes Flood of 1972. She explains, “We had just hired a new academic dean who moved here from the Carolinas to Nanticoke. Because I lived in Nanticoke, we drove together to the campus. The morning of the Flood, we were on the phone deciding if we should go in or not. He said ‘well, we might as well go.’ When we got to the College, instead of working, we were bagging sand.” She continues, “When we were allowed to come back to work, all staff and faculty helped to clean the buildings from top to bottom. We were taking out old books and old records and washing off old files. It took months and there wasn’t a person who did not chip in and help,” Teddi adds. “Everyone came to work every day for about a month, but it was to help clean. That was a very memorable time.”

Then the decision was made to move to the College’s current location. “It was very exciting to move to Nanticoke,” Teddi says. “Everyone was thrilled to move. It was a beautiful new campus. I remember the gorgeous cherry trees all along the entrance to the College. Plus there were eight buildings!” Teddi laughs, “Some people from the Wilkes-Barre/Kingston area had never even driven to Nanticoke and had no idea where it was! When we moved to the Nanticoke campus, I chose to work in students activities and athletics because I enjoyed working with the students so much.” And that is where she has been the secretary for more than 40 years.

Through the decades, Teddi has worked with many of the student clubs and athletics at the College. She says, “I love working with the students. I stay in touch with many of them after they graduate, some as long as 40 years ago. I have met the children of many of our graduates that I knew when they were students.

I have been honored to be invited to many graduations, showers, weddings, and baptisms.” One student organization close to Teddi’s heart is the Student Government Association (SGA) which has been in existence since the College first opened. She has worked with many SGA presidents and officers over the years.

“I remember one president who came here who was a quiet young woman with a daughter,” Teddi notes. “She really blossomed at the College and bettered her life for herself and her daughter. I’m especially proud that she became the first student accepted into what is now the Women with Children program at Misericordia University.”

As Teddi reflects on her many years at LCCC, she says, “The friends I have made here, both staff and students, over my many years are priceless. But my most cherished memory is walking down River Street from one building to the other and passing a teacher at the College and saying ‘Hello Mr. Janosov’ and him saying hello back. Many years later, that man became my best friend and my husband.”

Partners in Workforce Education program initiated.

Berwick Center opens its dedicated site.

The Schulman Gallery, the College’s first named facility, opens in the Campus Center. The new gallery premiers with student Old Masters art exhibit.

Dedication for LCCC’s gymnasium to be renamed after Coach Jim Atherton, retired Director of Student Activities and Athletics and Men’s Basketball coach.

Public Safety Training Institute begins operations with dedication ceremony.

2003

Spring 2003

October 2006

January 20, 2007

April 25, 2008

15

POWERFUL DEGREE

T

Tara Ulitchney ‘08

he Ulitchneys are the exact example of a nuclear family. Tara is a licensed reactor operator at Talen Energy Corporation at the Susquehanna Steam Electric in Berwick.

Her brother, Brandon, works as an outage scheduler at the plant. Her father, Andy, worked as an operator at the facility most of his life, starting at the plant at the age of 19 and was involved in the construction - including pouring the concrete for the towers before getting into operations. Tara’s grandfather (also named Andy) worked for Chicago Bridge and Iron, and helped with the construction of the reactor vessels and other structures.

The nuclear field wasn’t originally Tara Ulitchney’s calling.

Tara always wanted to be a psychiatrist. She was fascinated by psychology and after graduating from the Northwest School District in 2002, she pursued her ambition by enrolling

16

in Wilkes University. After finishing her degree, Tara supplemented her education before going to medical school by taking evening classes at Luzerne County Community College.

She asked her father for advice on courses to take at LCCC. Tara had always excelled in math and science and was debating on taking a second organic chemistry course, when her father suggested taking one of the new nuclear engineering technology courses. LCCC had just restarted the nuclear engineering technology program that year in 2006.

She enrolled in the reactor core fundamentals course and was immediately hooked. “I loved it and wanted to do this for a living,” Tara says. “Life led me in a different direction. I am very happy in this field.”

Luzerne County Community College’s AAS degree program in Nuclear Engineering Technology is designed

Dedication held for new LCCC Walk of Honor at the Public Safety Training Institute.

New Culinary facility in downtown Nanticoke named the Joseph A. Paglianite Culinary Institute.

Health Sciences Center dedication ceremony held.

Classes begin Fall 2011 semester.

LCCC’s Health Sciences Center is named in a ceremony the Francis S. and Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center.

LCCC receives $10 million federal TAACCCT grant to develop new degree and career programs in high priority career fields.

September 11, 2010

Fall 2011

Fall 2011

September 21, 2013

September 29, 2014

to provide technically-trained personnel to support the nuclear power industry. The curriculum prepares students for employment as technicians in reactor operations, health physics and instrumentation and control. It also prepares students for employment as maintenance technicians in a manufacturing or production facility.

Graduates of the NET program who have successfully met all of the degree requirements are wellpositioned for available jobs in the nuclear industry at facilities like Talen Energy.

“LCCC’s Nuclear Engineering Technology program prepared me well for this career,” she says. “Atomic and nuclear physics and reactor core fundamentals were my favorite courses. The instructors were very knowledgeable, and presented the materials in a way that was very interesting. They worked in the field and really explained the conditions and stresses of the job.” Tara’s brother, Brandon followed in his sister’s footsteps and also completed his NET degree at LCCC.

A reactor operator is responsible for the day-to-day safe operation of the facility and the associated turbine generating equipment.

Tara carefully controls and monitors the nuclear reactor and related systems, all following standard and national procedures. She also implements operational procedures, such as those controlling start-up or shut-down activities and dispatches orders or instructions to personnel through radiotelephone or intercommunication systems to coordinate auxiliary equipment operation.

“My first priority is to keep the public safe,” Tara states. “I test equipment, monitor statuses of the equipment, and along with my peers and supervisors, determine the best way to resolve any issues. You need to have a strong grasp on science, mechanical physics, and electronics and how they each affect each other.” Tara feels operators also should have a ‘Type A’ personality to constantly be on their game and have great attention to detail. “And although everyone in the plant has their own expertise and niche,” she adds, “operators need to have a vast array of knowledge in order to always understand the state of the plant.”

Nuclear control operators need to demonstrate the ability to work under pressure and show a passion for their work. “In nuclear these skills are a must,” Tara states. “You are responsible for the equipment. It re-

LCCC’s President, Thomas P. Leary and Alumni Director, Bonnie Lauer pose with some of LCCC’s alumni at Talen in front of the facility’s iconic cooling towers in Berwick. quires a proactive and persistent drive for improvement to maintain equipment at top notch”

Tara is the only licensed female reactor operator and wants women thinking of entering this field not to be intimidated. “We work as a team here, and support our extended nuclear family. If you have interest in math and science, this is a great, financially rewarding field.”

LCCC Cross Country runner Curtis Bates places 12th - National NJCAA Men’s Cross Country Meet.

LCCC opens its Writing Center to the public, moves to new expanded location in Building 9.

LCCC goes completely “smoke free” on campus.

LCCC Scranton Center has ribbon cutting and opens for classes in the Marketplace in Steamtown mall in downtown Scranton.

LCCC begins its 50th Anniversary celebration.

November 2015

Summer 2016

Fall 2016

August 2016

January 2017

17

Making Fantasy Real I

f you were to say that Kim Gromoll ‘77 works in a fantasy world, you would be correct.

Kim, an alumnus from Luzerne County Community College, is a freelance artist and scenic designer who has created sets, scenery, floats, and designs for fantasy lands like Universal Studios and Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

“When I was five years old,” Kim recalls, “I got this little toy knight for Christmas. I drew a picture of the knight onto a piece of cardboard and the image looked exactly like the toy. I wrote on the cardboard ‘drawn by Kim at age five.’ I still have that drawing. So, all the way back then I have always enjoyed illustrating.”

Originally from Plains, Kim attended Plains High School until he was a junior,

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then transferred to Wyoming Seminary. Upon graduation, he decided he would continue to pursue his love of art.

“I knew I would do something with my ability,” he says. “I figured I would become an illustrator.” Kim chose Luzerne County Community College to follow that dream.

There were three art teachers there Kim learned from: Sue Sponenburg, George Schilling, and Bob Kray.

“All three were working professionals in the field,” Kim remembers. “I can’t tell you how important that was to me.” Kim and his friends were eager to learn all they could to become professional artists like their instructors.

“We would attend George’s class, go out to eat, then we would

Kim Gromoll ‘77 come back and just talk with him…he would also often let us sit in on another class, just to keep learning. He was tough and he was fair.”

Kim is still friends with Sue Sponenberg. “She is simply amazing,” he boasts.

“Sue creates incredible equestrian, fox hunt art, and very traditional oil paintings.” Kim called George “The Shark Guy,” as he created a lot of work with National Geographic, Field and Stream, and other outdoor mags. “In addition to all the fish and sharks he illustrated, George also did a lot of Sci-Fi artwork,” Kim beamed. “He would bring in the latest cover of some pulp magazine that he did of some alien or a spaceship. We were kids just out of high school and this was really exciting stuff to see.”

Bob Kray created a great deal of wildlife work. “He would bring in a painting of an eagle soaring over the woods or a buck in the fall in the field. It was wonderful to see all that.” Kim says he still uses a lot of the techniques and knowledge I learned there. “I remember one of the first paintings that I did in acrylic and I still cringe about it, but I was learn-

ing. I painted an elk in the forest and all the trees were the same size. Bob looked at my painting and said, ‘In life, things are random, nothing is the same size. Natural trees don’t look like they are from a Christmas tree lot.’ That stuck with me so much that almost all of the designs I do include a randomness; almost nothing is symmetrical in my designs.

After Kim received his AAS Commercial Art degree from “The Cube,” in 1977, he continued his education at the Maryland Institute College of Art and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, for Illustration.

Kim worked for several companies after that, then started freelancing. He freelanced for awhile around Bucks County and the Philadelphia area for 15 years doing anything that would pay the bills, like design work for books and magazine covers. “I also did around 600 postage stamp illustrations for 16 different foreign countries,” he says.

Then illustration jobs started to evaporate in the area as new software design programs came out. The need for hand drawn illustrations started to diminish. So about 20 years ago, Kim moved to Orlando, Florida.

“I found I had an affinity to design in 3D spaces,” he says. “I worked with a few small companies designing theme park type attractions and landed a two-day gig at Universal Studios to do some design work which then turned into 16 years of working for Universal.”

At Universal Studios and Walt Disney Entertainment, Kim designed parade units, show sets, stages, themed vehicles for characters, and projects like Halloween Horror Nights & Grinchmas. He also designed numerous stage shows, events, grand openings and concerts.

“I was a senior designer, but left to take a position at Disney in art design and entertainment as an art director,” he says. While at Disney, Kim designed and art directed a number of attractions including the Mr. Oogie Boogie’s Funky Freakhouse Show, Queen Elsa’s Float for the Frozen Summer Fun Parade and many smaller projects.

“One of his favorites was the 20th Anniversary of the Lion King Show. I had to design the scenery, dance stages, rocks that the performers and narrator would stand on, and create it for easy set up and break down.”

Kim spent two years at Disney and left there last summer to freelance.

“I have been freelancing with several different companies, like Nickelodeon Studios, Busch Gardens Tampa,

and now Universal again,” Kim says. “I am starting with a group there this year designing a new theme park in Beijing, China.” Kim also freelances outside the field of theme parks, including painting artwork.

“I’ve been a Star Wars geek since I was at LCCC,” Kim states.

“I was there in 1977 when the first Star Wars movie came out. My LCCC classmate buddies were all fans.

About four years ago, I started to paint original Star Wars limited edition prints for a company called Acme Archives. The cool thing about this is they offer the original art to George Lucas, and he has purchased two of

my pieces. As a result, my wife and I were able to get a tour of his Skywalker Ranch in California.”

Married 34 years to his wife Maryann, Kim has two children Nicole and Michael – both who also work at Universal.

The family enjoys traveling. They recently went to Ireland to see Skellig Michael, the Island that was shown at the end of Star Wars, The Force Awakens movie.

My most favorite thing I’ve created is the Skool House, a haunted house I designed for Universal in 2008,” Kim recalls.

“It’s dilapidated, not one straight line on it, and looks like it’s going to fall down.

It all goes back to what my LCCC teacher Bob Kray said about randomness. I loved ‘The Cube.’ It was the best two years.”

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HUNGRY AMBITION

“My original consecutive restaurant openings, then was promoted in ambition was to 2010 to management. become a nurse,”

Although he enjoyed his work with Olive Garden, Rich Hachan ‘09 he felt an itch to move onto something new to build his says. “I looked at career opportunities. Rich moved to Boston and took a several schools job as the kitchen manager of the British Beer Company. and heard that “It was a totally different atmosphere from the corporate LCCC was highly world,” Rich says. “Not a lot of technology, but a very old known for its nursstyle method of management. It was a cool place and I ing program.” worked with several amazing people. The kitchen manRich, a Carbonagers would have these cook-offs with a whole bunch dale high school ingredients in mystery baskets, and that’s how we came graduate, enup with the menus.” rolled and started

A need to grow into a greater career path, led Rich his education at to New York. He found a position as an executive chef at Luzerne County ShopRite Supermarkets, the largest retailer-owned coopCommunity Colerative in the United States and the largest employer in lege toward his career path. What he didn’t realize at the time New Jersey. He worked in all four of the stores in Albany. was the job he held to help pay for college would lead him in “Last year, I was promoted as the food service supervia different direction. sor for the company,” Rich says. “I oversee 10 locations

While going to school at LCCC, Rich had been working at with more on the way.” Inside the ShopRite stores, there is Olive Garden in Wilkes-Barre. He started as a line cook, then a food service area with different food bars and menus. worked his way to becoming a culinary assistant manager.

Rich is responsible for the day-to-day operations includ “They selected me to be a corporate trainer, which aling menu design, costing of recipes, recipe simplification, lowed me to open up new restaurants,” Rich says. “I opened standardizing offerings, developing training programs, up six restaurants shortly after.” and buying options.

“I still use the techniques I learned in billing

Several events occurred during “When they interviewed class to this day; whether it’s butchery, me, ShopRite asked me if I Rich’s time at LCCC which led him filleting a fish, or just basic cooking was ready for the job,” Rich down a different path. “I started to methods.” feel that nursing wasn’t a good fit recalled. “I said ‘No. I’ve never for me, I was doing really well at the Olive Garden, and my done what you guys are asking me to do, but you’ve grandmother passed away – all led me to refocus my life seen my abilities and if I’m under the right person (which and career objectives. I changed my major to the Hotel and my boss was brilliant at) I could climb as high as I set my Restaurant Management program.” mind to.’ This was not the response they were expecting,

Rich speaks admirably of his instructors who guided him but they took the chance and made sure I received the through transition. “I still keep in touch with my teachers Jim training and opportunities to be successful.” Rich lives in Phillips, Kate Clemente, David Pembleton, and Sal Shandra,” Middleton, New York and manages stores from Albany Rich says. “I can’t say enough about them.” down to White Plains, New York and as far south as New

He remarks about the faculty’s decorated careers from Brunswick, New Jersey. owning own businesses to working at restaurants and food

“I’ve drawn a lot from my education at LCCC,” Rich service providers. “Oftentimes, teachers just teach out of a points out. “The cooking techniques, the menuing, even book,” Rich points out. “LCCC’s instructors drew a lot on exthe math skills I use in all our stores.” perience in their personal and professional lives and careers.

He says oftentimes people going into the restaurant This resonated with me.” or food service business think they are going to work with Rich says he wasn’t a high-end student in high school, in banker hours and have immediate financial success. but excelled in college because of the way LCCC’s instruc“It took me a lot of work and time to get to this level. You tors taught him. “The classes were detailed; we would learn a have to be willing to do the hard work.” lesson then go right ahead and do it ourselves in the kitchen.

Rich points out some of The classes were fun, interactive, and user-friendly. I still use the the other culinary schools techniques I learned in class to this day; whether it’s butchery, out there don’t offer the filleting a fish, or just basic cooking methods.” holistic approach that LCCC

At the Olive Garden, Rich held nearly every kitchen posioffered. “I learned both cution there. “I was kitchen manager, front house manager, bar linary skills and business skills manager…I did everything in the whole building,” he says. “I and the combination of that served, bussed, hosted, managed, and cooked.” education helped propel me

After Rich graduated from LCCC in 2009, he handled three to where I am today.”

20

Arthur Miller ‘69 IN

F CUS Art Miller at the Luzerne County Community College Faculty and Alumni Exhibition” at the LCCC Schulman Gallery

Harry Kellow, student, Art Miller, photography instructor, and Howard Purcell, art instructor, prepare for the commercial art exhibit in 1971 at LCCC

Arthur Miller ’69 started his photographic training when he joined the Navy at age 17 in the early 1960’s.

While in the Navy, Art attended and graduated from the U.S. Naval School of Photography in 1964. He was assigned to America’s first British FBM Atomic Submarine Base at Holy Loch Scotland. There he worked on illustrative assignments provided by the U.S. Navy Photographic Center, Washington, D.C. He received several Navy commendations and awards for his photography, including a Naval commendation for his coverage of John Paul Jones’ birthplace, which exhibited at the U.S. Naval Museum, Washington, DC.

After his enlistment ended, Art returned to the Wyoming Valley. Interested in continuing to pursue commercial art, he learned that a community college had just opened in Wilkes-Barre. He enrolled at Luzerne County Community College and started in the Commercial Art curriculum.

“The instructors in the Commercial Art program, Howard Purcell and Andy Palencar, were amazing, excellent artists,” says Art. “Howard was famous for the many comic books he illustrated in the 1940’s including the first cover of the Green Lantern in 1941. They taught Arthur the illustrating and painting skills he uses in many of his fine art creations. “There was a lot going on in the world at that time,” he recalls. “But the students in the art program were very dedicated and put their all into their work. We were all eager to learn.”

Dr. Guy Ferrell, president of LCCC, had learned of Art’s photography credentials in the Navy and asked him about adding photography classes in the curriculum. Art helped set up a studio, complete with darkroom, enlargers, lighting, and cameras. He also developed the basic and advanced photography classes for LCCC. “We were offering the first accredited photography classes in northeastern Pennsylvania,” Art boasts. He taught the photography classes for the College, even teaching many students who would become art faculty at the College later including Sue Sponenberg, Michael Molner, Ken Newman, Jim Butterwick and Brooke Yeager.

From 1968 through 1975, LCCC published school yearbooks. Art captured the early history of LCCC through the hundreds of photographs featured in many of these books.

The Commercial Art Department was located in the back of the Student Center Building on River Street.

Each year, the department held an annual art exhibit in the lobby of the nearby Hotel Sterling. “We put a

21

lot of effort into those exhibits,” Art says. “The faculty and students had a lot of energy and the quality of their work really became apparent at the art exhibitions.”

The Agnes Flood in 1972 caused a devastating blow to the photography program, flooding the new facility and destroying much of the equipment and negative files. So, when LCCC began planning its move to a new location in Nanticoke, Art designed the photographic labs and studios for the new facility in Building 4.

Not long after, Art’s photography business, Spectrum Studio, started to expand and Art turned his attention to the professional world of photography shooting industrial, commercial, and public relations work. Through the years, Art has won numerous awards and accolades for his work. He has served as photographic editor for the Wilkes University magazine and the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Centers magazine. His photography was selected for publication in McGraw Hills Fundamentals of Marketing. As a professional artist, he has provided thousands of

photographic illustrations, nationally and internationally, for magazines, brochures, news services, ad agencies, in house publications, billboards and more. Art is a full-time Artist/ Photographer and a past president of the Wyoming Valley Art League of Northeastern PA.

Art describes his work as “a crossover between photography and art.” He seamlessly blends together his paintings and photography and creates fine art pieces that are truly unique and full of color and expression.

Art and his wife, June have three children Chris, Heather, and Ivy. Chris and Heather have also studied at LCCC, both taking the photography curriculum.

“Photography is an excellent profession,” Art points out. “but you must have the eye of an artist to be a photographer. So be sure to take some art classes to acquire the skills of good composition.(line, shape, form, texture, color) .” Art also advises to have your camera with you at all times. “Like life, some of the best photographs are spontaneous.”

Some of the fine art pieces created

by Arthur Miller

Dental Assisting Celebrates 40 Years Luzerne County Community College recently celebrated its dental assisting program’s 40th anniversary at the College’s Benco Dental Clinic at the Francis S. and Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center.

The program included a reception for dental health professionals and a continuing education course “OSHA and Infection Control” which was presented by Bridget Dorsey, RDH.

A proclamation honoring the program on its 40th anniversary was presented by Liz Gorski, on behalf of PA Senator John T. Yudichak.

Shown at the celebration are, from left -- Dr. Deborah VilegiPayne ‘84, dean, nursing and health sciences, LCCC; Jeanne Farrell ‘78, CDA, EFDA, instructor, dental assisting, LCCC; Liz O’Brien Gorski, ‘88 representing Senator John T. Yudichak; Donna Shultz Lepkoski, CDA, EFDA, FADAA, BS, professor, dental assisting, LCCC; and Rachel Coffee ‘02, CDA, RDH, MS, director, dental health, LCCC.

22

The Annual LCCC Facu lty and Alumn tradition at the Schulm i Exhibit, a special an Gallery.

president, LCCC Melissa Williams Taney ‘03, Jaclyn DeNardi ts sen pre Alumni Association, n’s with the Alumni Associatio . ard Aw Outstanding Graduate

The dining room of LCCC’s Educational Conference Center was renovated thanks to funds donated by the Alumni Association and ESSA Bank and Trust.

From left are: Patricia Beserman ‘08; Judy Gumina ‘07; Susan Gilroy-King ‘10; Bonnie Brennan Lauer ‘87, director, alumni relations; Sandra Nicholas, executive director, LCCC Foundation, Inc.; and Susan Spry, vice president, applied technologies and workforce development.

Bonnie Brennan Lauer ‘87, director, alumni relations, presents Shannon Getchey, with the Alumni Association’s Outstanding Adult Learner Graduate Award

nts e v E i n m 2016 Alu Students, staff , and alumni volu alumni and fr iends of LCCC nteered to help raise fund s fr during the an nual phonath om on.

19 23

Alumni Class Notes 1973

Pam Thomas

(Commercial Art) was the featured artist at the Northern Columbia Community and Cultural Center in Benton at a show last fall.

Pam is also a realtor with Century 21 Covered Bridges Realty, a member of the North Mountain Art League and Susquehanna River Artists. Her preferred medium is pastels and she has done paintings of many of our local covered bridges.

She resides in Cambra with her family.

1977

Joe Bello

(Journalism) has his artwork on display in the “YUMMM! The History, Fantasy, and Future of Food” exhibit at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, MD through September 2017.

You can view his unique art work at joebello. blogspot.com.

1986

Liz Revit (Business Administration) was recently

featured in Better Homes & Gardens showcasing her “Snowman Garland” products by Toland Home Garden. Her work is featured on garden flags and door mats. She has been working with Toland for more than a decade. Liz is very active in the craft industry, her designs can be seen in magazines, books, and online. She’s appeared on television, has taught at national jewelry shows, and conducts a variety of craft workshops. Liz is also a designer member of the Craft & Hobby Association. You can view more of her work at www.lizrevit.com.

1987

Congratulations to Don Nelson (Computer Science) who was recently named vice president of operations & chief technology officer for Luzerne County Community College. Following his LCCC graduation he continued his education at Penn State University earning his degree in computational mathematics in 1989. Don started to work at LCCC in 1985 while he was a student and has been with the College ever since. He and his wife, Lisa, are the parents of two sons, Michael and Jeffrey.

1991

Rebecca Shedlock-Brominski (Education) along with her husband Don received the Leadership Wilkes-Barre Distinguished Leadership Alumni Award in June 2016. This award is given to indi-

24

viduals who show exceptional passion for their community and strive to be examples of extraordinary leaders. In addition to the award Rebecca and Don were presented with citations from both Senator Robert Casey and Senator John Yudichak for their accomplishments. Rebecca and Don live in Mountain Top with their son Anthony, a freshman at LCCC majoring in Engineering.

1998

Beth Puzak Frushon (Dental Hygiene) is the director of oral hygiene services and education at the Wright Center in Clarks Summit. As part of their services, The Wright Center’s Oral Health Center brings dental care and education into schools using portable equipment. They also have a dental clinic in Jermyn. Beth is a recipient of the Proctor & Gamble Oral Health Award. She also earned a Dental Business Assisting degree from LCCC in 1996.

1999 & 2001

Cynthia Brenner (Nursing) and Michael Mihneski ’01

(Nursing) were married in October 2016. Cynthia and Michael met while working together at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Cynthia is an RN in the endoscopy lab and Michael is an RN in the cardiac catheterization lab. Together they have three children. Congratulations Cynthia and Michael!

2001

Matthew Brosh

(Commercial Art – Painting Illustration) continued his education at Kutztown University, and following his graduation he relocated to Asheville, NC. Matthew started his own business, BluBus Screenprinting and Clothes LLC which continues to grow. The business was named after his 1971 Volkswagen bus which he still owns. You can find him online at blubusscreenprinting.com.

Angelo Venditti

(Nursing) was recently named the regional chief officer for Geisinger Northeast. In addition he is an adjunct professor for Carlow University and serves on the board of directors for the Berwick Area Ambulance Association. Angelo also earned his emergency medical services degree from LCCC in 1999.

2003

Paul Shaw (Journalism) is the marketing director for the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

2005

Sandra Cumberland

(Nursing) recently published her first novel, Overcoming the Rain. The book is available on Amazon and is written under the pen name Candace Taylor. She recently donated a copy of the publication to the LCCC library. In addition, she previously earned two other degrees at LCCC a CIS degree in 1988 and a certificate in Application Develop/Operations in 1996. Sandy is employed at the college as an information technology technician as well as per diem in the nursing field.

Holly Evanoski

(General Studies) recently accepted a position at Highmark as a customer service advocate. She continued her education at Slippery Rock University earning a history degree in 2008. Holly is a member of the LCCC Alumni Association Board.

2007

Mandie Jordan

(Business Management) is a financial advisor and certified financial planner at Merrill Lynch in Wilkes-Barre. Ms. Jordan has worked at Merrill Lynch since 2012 and is responsible for developing strategies and recommendations to assist clients both with their financial needs and toward the achievement of their retirement goals. Following her LCCC graduation, she enrolled at Bloomsburg University and earned a bachelors degree in business management in 2009. She grew up in Freeland and is the daughter of Steven and Deborah Jordan ’12 (Commercial Art – Painting Illustration), Sugarloaf

Business Development Specialist of the Year. He has worked for Royal Caribbean since August 2013.

Among many responsibilities in this role, Carlos is accountable for relationship management, sourcing, growing and maintaining travel agency annual sales in excess of $55 Million for territories of Central New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania.

Carlos resides in North Miami Beach, FL.

Joan Beyer (Exercise Science and Fitness Leadership) and Joseph O’Brien ‘14 (Health/Physical Education) were united in marriage on October 8, 2016. Joan also graduated from East Stroudsburg University and California University of Pennsylvania in 2013 with a masters of science degree in exercise science and health promotion. Joan is a personal trainer with ProFitness in Moosic. Joe earned a bachelors degree from East Stroudsburg University in athletic training. He is employed by Wild Salmon, Bloomsburg, and Forks Farm, Benton.

2013

Joseph Malacari (Business Management) is a manager at the family business, Malacari Produce and Deli in Wilkes-Barre. The business is expanding and recently moved to Mundy Street.

2014

Patricia Besermin (Business Management) is a realtor with Lewith & Freeman Real Estate in Shavertown. In addition she is an instructor with Zen Barre in Dallas. Tricia is a member of the LCCC Alumni Board.

Mary Buckley (Nursing) and Matthew Bosek exchanged wedding vows on September 2, 2016 at the East Mountain Inn, Wilkes-Barre. The wedding was officiated by Ed Ackerman. Mary also received degrees in graphic design and photography from LCCC. She earned her BSN from Misericordia University in December 2016. Mary is the daughter of Theresa and Stanley Buckley who are both 1980 graduates of LCCC’s Nursing program.

Mrs. & Mr. Bosek reside in Wilkes-Barre.

2009

2016

2008

.

Kimberly Neary Bankes (Medical Office As-

sistant) earned her masters of science degree in healthcare administration with a minor in health promotion from King’s College in May 2016. In addition she holds a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from Misericordia University. She is employed by Geisinger Health System as an associate compensation analyst. Kim also serves on the LCCC Alumni Association Board.

2012

Carlos Alcantara

(Hospitality Business Management) was named the 2016 Royal Caribbean

Michelle Gitkos (Dental Hygiene) and Michael

Witek were united in marriage on September 3, 2016. Michelle also earned a general studies degree from LCCC in 2013 and was active in student activities and spots. Mr. & Mrs. Witek reside in Duryea with their dog, Marvin.

Jake Hizny (Food Production Management)

recently opened “Jay’s Famous Roast Beef & Pork” in Dallas, PA. At Jay’s Famous, Chef Hizny utilizes his 30+ years of culinary experience to offer a wide range of hand cooked items. Chef Hizny is also an adjunct faculty member at LCCC.

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2017 Events Calendar

_____

March 27 – April 5 Alumni Association Phonathon April 11 Alumni Association Meeting, 5:30pm Campus Center, 2nd floor, alumni conference room. Open to all graduates & friends of LCCC! May 6 18th Annual Alumni Flea Market & Collectible Show, Educational Conference Center, 8am-2pm May 12 Dental Health Alumni Day, Speaker: Catrice Opichka, RDH, reservation required May 22 3rd annual Alumni Golf Tournament, Blue Ridge Trail golf course, 12pm shot gun start May 23 Graduate Reception, Educational Conference Center, 6-8pm May 25 Commencement Ceremony, Mohegan Sun Arena, 6pm June 7 Alumni Association Meeting, 5:00pm Campus Center, 2nd floor, alumni conference room. Open to all graduates & friends of LCCC! August 4 Alumni Association Family Picnic @ Knoebels, 5pm reservations required September 11 Alumni Association Meeting, 5:30pm Campus Center, 2nd floor, alumni conference room.

Open to all graduates & friends of LCCC! September 11 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony, Time: TBD September 16 LCCC Cares Community Fair @ Patriot Square, 10am-4pm

___

September 23 LCCC Alumni NYC Bus Trip September 29 – Dec 22 LCCC-50th Anniversary “Back to the Beginning” Art Show October 2 – October 7 50th Anniversary Week Celebration – events TBA October 7 50th Anniversary Golden Gala -- Celebration and Performance by Eddie Day and the Starfires October 21 28th Annual Alumni Craft Festival November 14 Alumni Association Meeting, 5:30pm Campus Center, 2nd floor, alumni conference room.

Open to all graduates & friends of LCCC! TBA WSFX 30th anniversary Picnic – fun and games!

12-3pm TBA Wrestling reunion luncheon For more information on these events contact the LCCC Alumni office at alumni@luzerne.edu or call 570-740-0734. Or go to our Facebook page www.facebook. com/groups/luzernealumni to learn more about future events.

Vietnam Vets Honored At Walk of Honor

State and local lawmakers hosted a special ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War and honor those who served. State Senator John Yudichak, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Military Affairs, held the special recognition event for area Vietnam veterans last September at LCCC’s Walk of Honor at the Public Safety Training Institute in Nanticoke.

Organizers presented more than 55 Vietnam veterans living in the 14th Senatorial District with lapel pins featuring an eagle symbolizing courage, honor, and dedication surrounded by a blue circle signifying the vigilance, perseverance, and justice every veteran has shown in their service.

A commemorative plaque was dedicated and placed at the Walk of Honor to honor all of the local veterans of the Vietnam War.

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In Memoriam

______________________________

Sincere condolences are extended to the family and friends of alumni and members of the College family who have passed away since the last publication of The Bridge.

LCCC Graduates John Allen ‘04 (Electronics Eng. Tech.)

Richard Anselmi ‘72 (Real Estate Mngt. Tech.)

Shirley Ogin Arnold ‘79 (Nursing) Eunice Mae Bebb ‘81 (General Studies) Stanley Bellanco Jr. ‘00 (Architectural Eng. Tech.)

Jeremy Berezich ‘13 (Commercial Art) Melissa Brown ‘11 (Nursing) Eliza Burke ‘81 (Office Information Tech.)

Danielle Olex Cavanaugh ‘90 (Commercial Art) Joseph Charney ‘03 (Criminal Justice) David Check ‘72 (Business Adm.) Charles (Chico) Chernavsky ‘94 (Business Mngt. Tech.)

John Connors ‘88 (General Studies) Joanna Corrigan ‘91 (Tourism & Travel Mngt.)

Phillip Crawford ‘76 (General Studies) Nicole Yeck Cremard ‘02 (Human Services) Gail Delaney ‘97 (Horticulture Tech.)

Sandra Drevenik ‘90 (Business Adm.) Rose Drobish ‘91 (Nursing) Edward Engler ‘11 (Criminal Justice) Mark Engler ‘82 (General Studies) Patricia Ann Evans ‘94 (Nursing) Rachel Fairchild ‘73 (Office Information Tech.)

Patricia Fehlinger Emery ‘88 (Med. Trans. Specialist) Thomas Ford ‘84 (Nursing) Crystal Gigliotti-Hughes ‘05 (Human Services) Stanley Grontkowski ‘82 (General Studies) Diane Haines ‘04 (Human Services) David Henry ‘82 (Commercial Art) Joseph Kandrovy ‘70 (Science) Kathleen Klynoot ‘81 (Social Science) Mikhail Kostin ‘09 (Science) Douglas Koziel ‘12 (General Studies) Joseph Krehely ‘71 (Architectural Eng. Tech.)

Duane Lawrence ‘74 (Architectural Eng. Tech.)

Donna Lehman ‘06 (Business Mngt. Tech.)

Josephine (Jody) Leshanski ‘93 (Nursing) Jason Long ‘07 (General Studies) Gerald McMahon ‘83 (Electronics Eng. Tech.)

Robert Morash ‘73 (General Studies)

October 7, 2017 50th Anniversary Golden Gala -- Celebration and Performance by Eddie Day and the Starfires

Stephen Nerbecki ‘70 (Architectural Eng. Tech.)

Karen Brown O’Boyle ‘00 (Nursing) David Olah ‘13 (Audio/Video Comm.)

Carol Oliver ‘02 (Human Services) Michelle Pollack Tingey ‘08 (General Studies) Ronald Rayeski ‘70 (General Studies) Ruth Rico ‘76 (Social Science) Thomas Shook ‘74 (Education - Secondary) Darcy Snyder Garruba ‘74 (General Studies) Mary Bednarski Spess ‘80 (Early Childhood Ed.) Marie Louise Spinucci ‘94 (General Studies) Elaine Steblinski ‘05 (General Studies) David Stigora ‘78 (Indust. Electronics/Power) Lyla Stone ‘78 (Med. Trans. Specialist) Mary Stover ‘08 (Business Adm.) Bonnie Walski ‘90 (Education - Secondary) Megan Weaver ‘06 (Culinary Arts)

Faculty & Staff Galina Brusilovski Dottie Craig Haydn Gilmore Stephen Hiner Elizabeth Kazmierski Jack Kelly Gerald Kivler Sr. Imelda (Brislin) Kopstys

Janice Kratz Robert C. Kray Sr. Esther P. Liuzzi Gilbert E.Noll Jr. Roy E. Pipher Theresa M. Sapp Robert J. Shemo, DDS Raymond Souder

Friends of the College

Brigid Murray O’Connor, former Trustee Chair

Retirees/Career Moves____ The following members of the faculty, administration, and staff have retired from the College since the last issue of The Bridge was published.

Virginia Clarke, Faculty - Nursing, 15 years of service Linda Walters, Director of Counseling and Student Support Services, 40 years of service Jane Munley, Faculty - Criminal Justice, 40 years of service Laura Katrenicz, Special Assistant to the President, 21 years of service Sheldon Owens ‘87, Director of Food Services, 18 years of service Deborah Bomber, Custodian, 15 years of service Sharon Cohen ‘73, Secretary for Counseling, 15 years of service

SAVE THE DATES 27

LCCC ALUMNI & FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS

Alumni and Foundation

Honor Roll July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015 donors by giving level

Foundation Society ($50,000 or more)

Alcoa Foundation Estate of Getha & Isadore Edelstein Joseph A. & Erma Paglianite Wyoming Valley Health & Education Foundation

Trustees’ Circle ($20,000 - 49,999)

Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank Francis X. & Caroline Kowalski LCCC Alumni Association MotorWorld Toyota

President’s Club ($10,000 to $19,999)

Benco Dental Supply Company ESSA Bank & Trust Charitable Foundation M & T Bank Mary Claire Manganiello

Community Circle ($5,000 to $9,999)

Air Products Angeline Elizabeth Kirby Health Center Anne Bedwick Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs Nicholas & Pratt, LLP P&G Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation UGI Utilities, Inc

Heritage Club ($2,500 to $4,999)

Max Bartikowsky Central Susquehanna Community Foundation Cross Valley Federal Credit Union Geisinger Health System Martz Technologies Dr. Ishwar & Mrs. Ragini Murarka NEPA Healthcare Foundation Northeast PA Dental Hygiene Association PNC Bank Stephen Semanek Memorial Fund

Founder’s Club ($1,000 - $2,499) Allied Services Joseph Amato

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BB&T Berwick Hospital Dana Clark, Ed.D. Wilkes Barre General Hospital Darryl ‘79 & Francis ‘71 Curry Davidowitz Foundation Dr. John & Mrs. Janice DeFinnis Robert Drobish Son Ae Filchak First National Community Bank Mr. & Mrs. Robert Franssen Kingston Forty Fort Fire Fighters Charitable Assoc.

Kevin Kundratic ‘87 Diane Lello Peter J. Lello Lightspeed Technologies, Inc. Medico Industries Albert B. Melone Company Mericle Construction, Inc. Misericordia University Barbara Montante ‘83 MotorWorld Sandra A. Nicholas PPL Mark Rasimas ‘91 Talen Energy Corporation Tambur Family Foundation The Luzerne Foundation Susan Unvarsky ‘86 Wilkes Barre Scranton Elks Lodge Mr. & Mrs. Donald Williams

Alumni Circle ($500 to $999)

Edward & Mary Kay ‘79 Ackerman Berwick Dental Arts Choice One Community Federal Credit Union Cook’s Pharmacy Of Kingston, Inc. Evans Eye Care Patrick ‘72 & Tina ‘93 Fisher John ‘69 & Loree Gerich JLW Mountain Laurel Lions Club Charles Karns Laura Katrenicz Keyco Distributors, Inc. Juanita Krieger Marquis Art & Frame Mohegan Sun Pocono NBT Bank Steve ‘92 & Lisa ‘95 Novitski Pepsi Beverage Company Prudential Financial Matthew Pugh Thomas & Chris Pugh Lisa Rowley ‘89 David & Carolyn ‘95 Sawicki Howard & Paige Seeherman Leonard ‘69 & Bernadine Shimko WBRE TV The Woodlands Inn & Resort Lisa Yeager ‘78

Trailblazer Circle ($250 to $499)

A+E Group Dr. Patrick & Judy Adonizio Judith Aita Ettore Anselmi Donna Ashbridge ‘76 George Audi George & Janet Audi Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Edward Banaszek ‘78 Bank of America William & Betty Jane Barrett Bedwick Foods, Inc. Berkshire Asset Management Classic Properties Sandra Cumberland ‘05 Dr. James DeFinnis Mary Dolon ‘74 Gary Druby ‘76 William & Linda Edwards First Columbia Bank & Trust Nicholas ‘79 & Betsy Frusciante Dawn Gaudino Golden Care of Northeast PA, Inc. Michael Gusher Dale Hazlak Janine ‘97 & Edward ‘95 Hennigan Dana & Kimberly ‘90 Hogan Anne Holmes Hourigan, Kluger & Quinn P.C. Humford Equities Mark ‘95 & Theresa James Joyce Insurance Group Linda Kovalick ‘05 Kulpmont Nursing Forum Lamar Advertising Robert & Bonnie ‘87 Lauer LCCC Faculty Association LCCC Pastry Arts Club Thomas P. Leary Daniel Marriggi ‘81 Thomas McHugh ‘72 Dr. Gary & Kathleen Mrozinski Kenneth Musto Karen Natishan Offset Paperback Mfgs.

David & Charlene Outt Ronald Pajor ‘69 John Panzitta Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program Joseph Reilly ‘91 Brian Reklaitis ‘96 Rosana Reyes Frank Rosenn ‘76 Ann Saxton John Thomas Sedlak ‘88 Robert & Wilhelmina Stanley Mary Stchur John Stikar ‘80 Mary Sullivan John J. Tosi, III

LCCC ALUMNI & FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS Washington Street Renewal Associates, LTD Dr. Janis Wilson-Seeley Brooke & Libby ‘80 Yeager

Creative Business Interiors Martin Cusick ‘00 Lynn Distasio Dolores Dombrowski James Domzalski Century Circle Daniel Dudrick ‘70 ($100 to $249) Dorothy Dysleski ‘77 Elizabeth Aciukewicz ‘12 Frank Evanosky ‘70 Jane Allardyce ‘98 Cross Valley Federal Donald Alonzo ‘75 Credit Union Charles Altmiller ‘83 Elaine Fisher ‘98 Mary Ankenbrand ‘91 Brian Gill Benco Family Foundation Sheila Gionfriddo ‘08 Jean Berneski ‘85 Dolores Goble ‘76 Berwick Dental Arts Inc. Rose Goin Dr. Charles & Mrs. Joan Blewitt GTO Enterprises, LLC Cheryl Boberick ‘81 Debbie Hinz ‘93 Karen Borton Duwane & Charlyne Holder Holly Sales & Service of Walter Boyson ‘89 Northeast PA, Inc. Donna Broadt ‘84 Tammy Ioanna ‘05 Don & Rebecca ‘91 Brominski Teddi Janosov John J. Bryan Hon. & Mrs. Thomas F. Burke Jr. JAO Development Jean Jarrard ‘96 Ann ‘70 & Dr. William Camp Park Johnson ‘70 Harold Cannon ‘85 Sally Johnson Tom Carlin David A. Jolley Pauline Carmody ‘78 Albert Jumper ‘72 Francis Carrozza Susan Kaminski ‘77 Jane Castora ‘85 John Kashatus Eileen Cawley William Katsak ‘79 & Centralia Coal Sales Kathy Kairo Katsak ‘83 Virginia Clarke, Ph.D. Robert Klepadlo ‘81 Cleaning Express of Wyoming Valley, Inc. Michael Klopotoski ‘82 Dr. Kathleen Clemente Mark & Heidemarie Comprehensive Microfilm & Kobusky ‘92 Scanning Service Bruno Kolodgie ‘72 Edward Kopec ‘75 Joseph Compton ‘69 Kevin Kratzer ‘91 Linda ‘09 & Robert ‘84 Connor La Tolteca Wilkes-Barre Cathy Coolbaugh Christine ‘83 & John ‘84 Corgan Lamar Advertising Joyce Larson ‘88 Kathy Coslett Dr. Douglas & Mrs. Kathleen LCCC Science Department William Liotta Coslett

Jon & Gail Luksic Jacqueline Matthews ‘00 Gerald Mazur ‘92 Catherine McElroy ‘84 Medico Industries Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Miedreich B Richard Miller ‘86 Millville Pizzeria Joanie Minor ‘01 Karen Misorek ‘71 Morgan Stanley Cheryl Moritz ‘90 Denise Moyer ‘78 Darlene Murawski ‘06 Susan Murdoch ‘87 Richard & Diane Nemetz Nextstar Broadcasting Inc. Nursing Sunshine Club Robert & Susan O’Connor Jennifer Olshevski Thomas Opet ‘79 Brian Overman ‘83 Lisa ‘96 & Frank ‘06 Owens Debra Paradis ‘80 Richard Pendolphia ‘74 Pepsi Bottling Group Charles Rowles ‘95 & Martha Pezzino Phillips Supply Company Pioneer Hook and Ladder Company Dr. John Pisano Joseph Pluskey ‘76 Susan Porter Allen ‘14 Prism Response, Inc. Jane & Alan Rogers ‘72 Paul Rollman ‘71 Randolph Rompola ‘82 Maureen Ryneski Geraldine Samselski ‘76 Barbara ‘80 & Arthur Saxe Bette Saxton ‘98 Richard Schall ‘73

Susan Searfoss ‘87 Diane Shellenberger Paula Sirianni ‘80 Frank Sobeck Susan Socash Margaret Sosnak Maryann Spieth ‘78 Susan Spry ‘99 Willard & Margaret Stephens Tambur Family Foundation John Terrana, Esq. Rachel Tomaszewski ‘87 Robert Type ‘71 Upstate Velo Joseph Van Jura, Esq. Yvette Viercinski ‘86 Robert Walters ‘71 Robert West ‘73 Wilkes-Barre Hospital Company Barry Williams, J.D., C.P.A. Keith Williams, P.E. Keith & Mary Ann Williams Andrea Yachera ‘99 Shirley Yanovich JoAnne Yuhas Karel Zubris ‘10 Beth Zukowski ‘82

Friends Circle ($1 to $99)

Frederick Addison ‘80 Elizabeth Ambrose ‘83 Christopher Amico ‘85 Richard Anselmi ‘72+ Andrea ‘97 & Salvatore ‘76 Anzalone Ann Arcurie Lynnette Ashley ‘00 Carmen Attanasio ‘83 Elizabeth A’zary ‘80 Robert Babetski ‘85 James Balavage ‘70 Carol Baran ‘82

Melissa Brown Scholarship established

The Luzerne County Community College Foundation recently received donations to establish the Melissa Brown, R.N. Endowed Memorial Nursing Scholarship.

The scholarship was endowed by Melissa’s parents, Tim and Mary Brown as well as friends and family. A 1995 graduate of Lake Lehman High School, Brown was actively involved in sports and school activities. She received her R.N. degree from LCCC in 2011 where she distinguished herself academically and as president of the College’s Nursing Forum. After graduation from LCCC, she worked as an emergency room nurse at Geisinger Health System in Plains Township.

The Melissa Brown, R.N. Endowed Memorial Nursing Scholarship is available to LCCC students in the second year of the nursing program who actively participate in community life. For more information, or to contribute to the scholarship, visit www.luzerne.edu/give or contact Sandra Nicholas at snicholas@luzerne.edu.

Shown is -- The late Melissa Brown, R.N.

29

LCCC ALUMNI & FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS

LCCC Foundation Receives Donation From Motorworld Toyota The Luzerne County Community College Foundation recently received a donation from MotorWorld Toyota to support scholarships for students in the College’s automotive and diesel technology programs.

The $20,000 contribution will be used to defray the cost of tuition, books, fees, and tools for full or part-time students enrolled in the automotive and diesel technology programs.

Shown at the check presentation are, from left -- Bob Conner, ‘84 instructor, . automotive technology, LCCC; Rick Osick, president, MotorWorld Toyota; Thomas P. Leary, president, LCCC; Sandra Nicholas, executive director, LCCC Foundation; Jay Thomas ‘81, sales manager, MotorWorld Toyota; and Rich Moore, sales manager, MotorWorld Toyota

Rachael Baratta ‘10 Ceceil Barchik ‘85 Carol Barletta ‘80 David Barna ‘74 Christiana Baron Jean Barry Charles Bartleson Jr ‘03 Nicholas Barto ‘76 Raymond Bartosh ‘73 Marlene ‘93 & Len ‘70 Bartosiewicz Wendy Bealla ‘02 Deborah Beck ‘03 Donna Bednarski ‘81 Thomas Beir Jeanne Bejger John Belak ‘88 David Bell ‘78 John Bendick ‘87 Valerie Berzanski ‘71 James Biehl ‘85 Douglas Bilby ‘76 Joan Blaum ‘86 Christopher Blizzard ‘71 Mary Bobeck ‘76 Andrew Bohensky ‘86 David Borofski ‘69 Kathleen Borys ‘79 Paul Bosco ‘77 Adele Brelsford Marilyn Brock William & Elizabeth Brock John Brominski ‘69 Judith Brown ‘92 Mary Brown ‘74 Richard Brown ‘77 Ronald Buchanan ‘81 Theresa Buckley ‘80

30

Thomas Burns ‘00 Amy Butchko ‘79 Connie Butler ‘84 Lee Calabro ‘73 Cambell Business Machines Albert Capozucca John Carey ‘69 Rose Carroll ‘75 Alison Schmidt Carson ‘09 James Cawley ‘96 Jason Cease ‘01 Vita Cella ‘91 Brenda Chester ‘96 Barbara Christina ‘87 JoAnn Chukinas ‘02 Janet Cirko ‘86 Althea Clark ‘87 Clark Cohee ‘02 Frederick Coleman ‘73 Sharon Comitz ‘80 Joan Considine ‘81 Sally Corl ‘89 Rosemarie Corsaletti ‘01 Beth Cottle ‘13 Donna Cottone ‘91 Annette Craig ‘88 Joseph Crossin ‘84 Terese Cudwadie ‘80 Richard Cups ‘73 Laurie Cywinski ‘91 Tina Daley ‘97 Joseph Damiano ‘72 Ruth Ann Daron ‘77 Elizabeth Davis ‘82 Louise Davis ‘94 Christopher Dawe ‘80 Carol Dean ‘90 Jessica DeCastro ‘13

Mark Dechman ‘85 Karen Delay ‘89 William Deletconich ‘72 Michael Demko ‘79 Eveline Denardi ‘90 Nancy Dennis ‘85 Suzanne DePrimo ‘81 Bertino DiGregorio ‘05 Nancy Divers ‘85 William & Mary Dockeray Louis Dominick ‘71 Michelle Donato ‘81 Mary Ellen Dooley Carolyn Dorshefski ‘86 Donna Dotson ‘80 Luzerne Optical Laboratories Robert Drago ‘96 Donna Dragon-Oschman ‘84 Thomas Dreyfus ‘93 Thomas Druby ‘80 Conrad Duhoski ‘70 Candice Dutko ‘12 John Dylski Susan Edner ‘98 John Ellison ‘69 Renee Eustice ‘94 Gertrude Evans ‘92 Josephine Evans ‘74 Duane Fall ‘95 Brendan Farrell ‘13 Jeanne Farrell ‘82 Mal Faust ‘99 Andrew Fedorchak ‘77 Dawn Fisher ‘90 John Fisher ‘73 Elaine Flanagan ‘98 Diane Fontinell ‘92 Joan & John Foster ‘77

Laura Fowler ‘94 Jeffrey Fox ‘95 Gwen Foy ‘88 Dorothea French ‘97 Robert Furedi ‘71 Mary Ann Gabel ‘91 Harold Gabriel ‘84 Martin Gallagher Tomas Garcia ‘98 Jo Nell Garrah ‘01 Tina Gattuso ‘85 Doris Gayeski ‘84 Daniel George ‘00 Nicole Gesiskie Mary Ghilani Mario Giancini ‘03 Martin Gieda ‘70 Thomas & Marie Gill Deborah Ginocchietti ‘98 Jane Girvan ‘97 Robert Glycenfer ‘81 Cynthia Gocek ‘93 Barbara Godlewski ‘90 Ruth Goldsmith Joshua Granteed ‘14 Stacey ‘93 & James ‘94 Gray Janet Grazul ‘75 Kathleen Green ‘84 Lois Gross ‘86 Linda Gruner ‘78 Gerald Gruver ‘92 Judy Gurnari ‘86 Thomas Gushaulis ‘89 Donna Gustave ‘70 John Gutkowski ‘90 Amy Gyory ‘84 Joann Hadsall ‘91 John Halliday ‘69

LCCC ALUMNI & FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS

Marianne ‘84 & Francis Hanify Donald Hanson ‘71 Susan Hanusek ‘95 Kathleen Harrington ‘99 James Harris Jon Hart Todd Hastings ‘94 Fikriye Havale ‘12 Karen Havy ‘89 Harry Hayes ‘73 Cynthia Heness ‘98 Marion Hidlay ‘83 James Higgins ‘70 Elaine Hobart ‘02 Diane Hogan ‘80 Michael Hogan ‘78 Janet Hogle ‘90 Sandra Hopkins ‘89 Judith Houtsch ‘98 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Hricko Mary ‘91 & Michael ‘78 Hronich Kenneth Humiston ‘74 Frank Hummel ‘13 Helen Hutnick ‘07 Robert Isaacs ‘69 Melissa Jabore-Futch Ronald Jacobs ‘91 Renee Jakubovics ‘76 David ‘94 & Suzanne ‘91 Kozlowski-Jarrett Jefferson Twp Volunteer Fire Company Kathleen Jenkins ‘96 Joann Joel Hanna Phyllis Johnson ‘13 Jason Jolley ‘07 Deborah A. Jones John Jones ‘91 Ronald Jones ‘69 Donna Kachinko ‘91 Anne Kachline ‘75

Mark Kalaus Joseph Kane ‘75 Michelle Kaneski ‘89 Joseph Kanyak ‘71 Donald Kapral ‘90 Richard Karlotski ‘85 Joann Karpinski ‘83 Mary Ann Kearny ‘82 Mary Ann Keefe ‘79 Doris Keeler ‘80 Byron Keener ‘05 Judith Keller ‘97 William Kingsbury Deborah Kirkwood ‘92 Casey Kisel ‘08 Nathan Kitka Carmelita Klatch ‘91 Joseph Kleback ‘80 Brenda Kline ‘88 Deborah Kline ‘90 Mary Ann Kline ‘97 Lawrence Klug ‘78 Marlene ‘02 & David ‘93 Kluger Mark Koch ‘08 Linda Kolb ‘91 Helen Kopec Robert Kopec ‘71 Carl Kosch ‘72 Kelly Kostanesky ‘99 Joy ‘84 & David ‘72 Kozemchak Gale Kresge ‘71 Joseph Krizauskas ‘99 William Kuklewicz ‘71 Cheryl Kundrat ‘86 Beverly Kuprionas ‘79 Edmund Kyttle ‘70 George Lacey ‘85 Theresa Langan ‘85 Florence Lauth Patricia Lavan ‘84 Michael Leahey ‘90

Christina ‘89 & Robert ‘94 Legath Edward Lewko ‘73 Lisa Ligi ‘99 Lisa Lindquist ‘88 Robert Linskey ‘82 Ronald Lipinski ‘73 David Lloyd ‘74 Barry Lohman ‘70 Cynthia Lombard ‘88 Maureen Loy ‘81 Deborah Luchetti ‘91 Helen Macareo ‘87 William MacCollum ‘71 John Macey ‘71 Susan Macnamara ‘07 Carol Maculloch ‘94 Kyle Magda ‘15 Deborah & Kenneth Malia ‘72 Joan Malishchak ‘77 James Mallon ‘75 Patricia Maloney ‘82 Richard Marchetti ‘70 Michael Mardo Dotty Martin Diane Martinez ‘94 Cathy Martinson ‘84 Gary Masters ‘82 Arline ‘95 & Edward ‘77 Matkins Gail Matushoneck ‘99 Mildred McCall ‘77 Valerie McCreary ‘85 Robert McCue ‘95 James McGill ‘71 Patrick McHale ‘74 Charles McKeown ‘93 Maurita Medash ‘92 Eugene Mehalshick ‘89 Arthur & Barbara Meyer Kathleen Meyers ‘89 Genevieve Mihalick ‘72 Lisa Miller ‘92 Richard Miller ‘73

Jodie Miscavage ‘00 Jane Mizerak ‘14 Rita Mogavero ‘89 Florence Mokris ‘83 Rebecca Morgan Fran Moriarty ‘07 John Morris ‘90 James Moss ‘85 Richard Moss ‘00 Betsy Mott ‘73 Diane Mucha ‘79 John Mudrian ‘05 Courtney ‘09 & Donald ‘15 Muendlein Jane Munley John Munley ‘79 Autumn Muntz ‘84 Elaine Murray ‘86 Mario Naticchi ‘06 Brenda Navin ‘86 Amanda Neidlinger ‘07 Amanda Newman ‘98 Krista Nice ‘95 Nancy Nicoletto ‘08 Sandra Norton ‘03 Judith Novak ‘92 Kimberly Novak ‘86 Sybil Nudo ‘90 John O’Brien ‘97 Denise Ohl Alex O’Malia ‘76 James Opet ‘83 Mr. & Mrs. David Oravitz Cheryl Oster ‘93 Mary Palubinsky ‘83 Ellen ‘93 & Dale ‘82 Parmenteri Kimberly Parsons Bruce Partches ‘03 Jennifer Pawlowski ‘88 Stacey Pellegrino ‘03 Patricia Peters ‘99 Eugene Philbin ‘00

LCCC Alumni Association holds annual golf tournament The Luzerne County Community College Alumni Association recently held its second annual alumni golf tournament at the Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club, in Mountain Top.

Don Rossi, a member of the Cross Valley Federal Credit Union foursome, made a hole-in-one at the tournament and won a $10,000 prize which was sponsored by the LCCC Alumni Association.

Shown at the tournament are, from left -- Ann Marie Schraeder ‘79, co-chair, alumni golf tournament; Thomas P. Leary, president, LCCC; Don Rossi, hole-in-one prize winner; David Sawicki, cochair, alumni golf tournament; and Bonnie Brennan Lauer ‘87, director, alumni relations, LCCC.

31

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E. James Phillips James Phillips ‘84 Bernard Piontek ‘70 Mr. & Mrs Joseph Pliss Dianne Plunkett Marie Poplawski ‘00 Richard & Elizabeth Powell Jacqueline Pramick ‘72 George Price ‘88 James Price ‘83 Robert & Marlene Price Jean Profka ‘78 Joseph Prushinski ‘79 Laura Prushinski ‘02 Justin Pshar Richard Pshar ‘88 Danita Puhl ‘84 David Pyskoty ‘88 Joseph Quather ‘74 Ryan Quinn ‘98 Lori Radzinski ‘88 Jean Ragantesi ‘81 Stephen Rakos ‘91 Gloria Rawls ‘86 Blaine Readler ‘74 Jocelyn Reese Sr. Dorothy Reever Lewis Reich ‘72 Stephanie Reidinger ‘95 Margaret Reilley ‘89 Mary Reynolds ‘70 Dawn Richie ‘93 Raymond Ripka ‘08 Carol Risch ‘89 Shirley Ritsick ‘87 Roxanne Robinson ‘92 Philip & Patricia Rodney Jeffrey Ross Cinde Roup ‘97 Carol Ann Royer ‘77 Denise Ruminski ‘95 Christine Rutkowski ‘80 Laureen Sabol ‘88 Jennifer Sabulski ‘80 Carol Salek ‘69 Curtis Salonick ‘74 Mary Rose Salvo ‘79 John Sandstrom ‘86 Sanitary Bakery Voitek’s TV Sales & Service Daniel Sarosky ‘99 Edward Sartin ‘93 Heather Sartin ‘93 UGI Utilities Heather Schield ‘07 Valerie ‘98 & Robert ‘92 Schultz Susan Schuster ‘78 Lois Scott ‘75 Sandra Scupski ‘92 Gloria Sekusky ‘82 Laurie Selecky ‘08 Patricia Sentigar ‘91 John Serafin Teresa Shaner ‘05 Betty Sikora ‘83 Carol Silver ‘82 Jill Simon ‘92 Francis Siracuse

JoAnn Sitler ‘87 Helen Skapura Kelly Skow ‘92 Marilyn Sladon ‘88 Gayle Delano Slezak Sandra Slosky ‘70 Barbara Smith ‘06 Neil Smith ‘81 Patricia Smith ‘02 Joline Sobeck ‘80 Kathleen Socha ‘80 James Solomon ‘10 George Soppeck ‘74 Gary & Mary Ann Sowinski Elaine Sozzi ‘77 Shelley Spencer ‘86 Joanne Spisak Jean Marie Stack ‘88 Jill Stankoski ‘99 Gail ‘80 & Christopher ‘81 Stasko Michelle Stchur ‘10 Edward Stec ‘72 Judith Steigerwald ‘83 Linda Stephanik ‘87 Michelle Steve ‘72 Cynthia Stone ‘82 Jacqueline Strzelecki ‘86 John Stubb ‘90 John Supplee ‘85 Brooke Swingle Kathy Szustak ‘79 Kathleen Talcott ‘05 Bruce Talipan ‘84 William Taney ‘99 Michele Tarricone ‘08 Joan Taylor ‘87 That Special Women Bonnie Thomas ‘74 John Thomas ‘78 Todd Thomas ‘82 Margaret Thorne ‘88 Richard Timko ‘69 Andrea Tirpak ‘10 Michael Tomasura ‘98 Darleen Tomayko ‘10 Karen Tomulaitis ‘82 Connie Toporcer ‘03 Carl Tranell ‘84 Diane Tranguch ‘88 Gary Travinski ‘74 Debbie Tressa ‘80 Ann Tripp ‘78 Amy & Kevin Troy Kristie ‘11 & Alexander ‘07 Troy Richard Uhing ‘72 Amy Urban ‘00 Jennie Valick-Kopacz ‘74 Linda VanGorder ‘97 Robert Vetter ‘05 Denise Wagner ‘13 Janet Walker Albert Wallace ‘12 John Wallick, Jr. John P. Walsh Kathleen Warren ‘88 Marianne Wazenski ‘84 Dean Welch ‘71 Michael Welch

Get Social With LCCC on Facebook, Instagram Flickr, YouTube, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter!

Keep up to date with all the happenings at LCCC and keep connected with friends. LCCC is on multiple social media channels to provide communication in whatever way you choose.

Explore videos, student work, upcoming events, new classes, and faculty news through the power of social media. Go to LCCC’s website: www.luzerne.edu and click on the social media icons to join in. You can also search for our LCCC alumni group on Facebook. See you online!

Robert Whitmire ‘84 Michael Wilchinski ‘76 Norma Wildoner ‘94 Jean Williams ‘88 Robert Williams ‘83 Walter Williams Melanie ‘76 & Frank ‘78 Wojak Betty Wojcik ‘71 Linda Wojnar ‘92 Lesley Wooddy ‘86 Diane Yale ‘83 Carol Yanchik Mark Yanus ‘84 Cheryl-Ann Young ‘89

Lori Yozviak ‘88 Annmarie Zaffuto ‘85 Tracy Zaleski ‘00 Joseph Zamulinsky ‘74 Barbara Zardus ‘84 Chester Zaremba ‘79 Gail Zaykoski ‘86 Bonnie ‘74 & Gary ‘77 Zisko Karen Zmijewski ‘84 Christine Zuber ‘94 + deceased

LCCC Food Bank Honored

Shown at the dedication of the LCCC Food Bank are members of the Empty Bowls Project Committee, from left -- JoAnne Yuhas, resource development assistant, LCCC; Jean Adams, Wilkes University faculty member and potter; Peter J. Lello, major gifts officer, LCCC; Ken Marquis, owner, Marquis Art & Frame; Virginia Davis, CBI Interiors; and Elizabeth Doherty, assistant director of alumni relations and annual giving, King’s College.

Members of the Empty Bowls Project Committee of Luzerne County recently recognized Luzerne County Community College’s Food Bank which was established in 2010 through the efforts of faculty and staff.

The facility provides grocery and small lunch items for students and their families who experience hunger issues.

The Empty Bowls Project Committee raises funds for local hunger organizations throughout Luzerne County by making and selling hand crafted and decorated bowls. For the past five years, the Committee has raised funds for the LCCC Food Bank, Commission on Economic Opportunity, the St.Vincent de Paul Kitchen, and other community agencies.

The LCCC Food Bank recently was named for Peter J. Lello, major gifts officer at LCCC and member of the Empty Bowls Committee. Lello was recognized by the committee and the College for his service and leadership in raising funds for the LCCC food bank and hunger organizations in Luzerne County.

LCCC alumni association holds annual craft festival

The Luzerne County Community College Alumni Association recently held its 27th annual Alumni Association Fall Craft Festival. This year’s craft festival featured close to 150 artisans from around the region selling hand-made items.

Proceeds from the event benefit student programs.

Shown are the craft festival volunteers, from left, first row -- Maureen Ryneski; Tara Bending ‘79; Marissa Siepietowski; Luanne Russin; Jennifer Pawlowski ‘88, alumni board member; and Gloria Migatulski ‘88, craft festival co-chair.

Second row -- Teddi Janosov; Bonnie Brennan Lauer ‘87, director, alumni relations, LCCC; Lisa Fox ‘86, alumni board member; Joan Siepietowski ‘87; Karen Kollar ‘82; Sue Conti ‘75; Maureen Leone; Judy Gumina ‘07; Susan Gilroy-King ‘10, craft festival co-chair; JoAnn Chukinas ‘02, alumni board member; and Ann Marie Schraeder ‘79, alumni board member.

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LCCC ALUMNI & FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT OF GIFTS Matching Gifts

Many community-minded organizations match the gifts their employees give to non-profit and community organizations. Financial support was received during the past fiscal year (7/1/15-6/30/16) by the following organizations.

Entergy The P&G Fund PPL Services Corporation PSE&G Ratheon Sanofi Pasteur

In-Kind Gifts

The College receives “In-kind” support (contributions of equipment, services, supplies, or other non-cash gifts) from philanthropic-minded companies to support our student programs. In-kind support was received during the past fiscal year from the following individuals and organizations.

In Kind Donors

Abe’s South Main Age of Innocence Antonio’s Pizza Art N Vino Asian Café Auto Zone Kimberly Bankes ‘09 Ekcho Bedosky Berwick Industrial Development Authority Patricia Besermin ‘08 Blue Ridge Trail Golf Course Rebecca Brominski ‘91

What’s

Brucelli Advertising Callahan’s Café Canteen Chacko’s Family Bowling Center Brenda ‘97 & Mark Chester Cinemark Crest Quality Cleaners Sandy Cumberland ‘05 Carol Dean ‘90 Mary Dolon ‘74 The Dough Company Dundee Garden Eddie’s Place Fire & Ice on Toby Creek FM Kirby Center Genetti Hotel & Conference Center Gerrity’s Supermarket Gertrude Hawk Chocolate Company Susan Gilroy-King ‘10 Grotto Pizza Holiday Inn Wilkes-Barre Isabella Restaurant Mark James ‘95 Teddi Janosov Knoebel’s Donna Kupetz LAMAR Advertising Co. Bonnie Brennan Lauer ‘87 LCCC Alumni Association LCCC Bookstore Leggio’s Italian Ristorante Marquis Art & Frame Mizenko Family Mohegan Sun Arena Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

YOU

NEW ith w

WSFX, LCCC’s student run radio station, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

The Foundation and Alumni Offices have made every effort to make the information contained within this publication accurate. Should you observe any discrepancy or error, we ask that you contact us at 570-740-0735.

The Bridge is our way of keeping you up-to-date. This is your way to keep us up-to-date. Let us know about changes in your career, family, or place of residence (attach additional sheet if necessary). We may publish your news in an upcoming issue. You may include a recent photo of yourself, too. Thank you!

Name______________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________ State______________Zip _________ Year of graduation/program ____________________________________________________ Phone (day)____________Phone (evening)____________E-mail_______________________ Spouse’s name_______________________________________________________________ Names, birth years of children __________________________________________________ Post LCCC education__________________________________________________________ Program & completion date ____________________________________________________ Name & address of employer __________________________________________________ Present position and job responsibilities ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Recent accomplishments/points of interest _________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________

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Return completed form to: Luzerne County Community College Alumni Office, 1333 S. Prospect St., Nanticoke, Pa 18634. Or email your information to: alumni@luzerne.edu

W/17

Gift

Your

is

Important

Give a gift to LCCC online at luzerne.edu/give Heartfelt thanks go out to our alumni, friends and community businesses, faculty and staff who have made gifts to LCCC. Thanks to your philanthropy, LCCC continues to make life better for current and future students by providing scholarships, financial aid, books, technology and other necessities. Nothing touches the lives of LCCC students as much as the Annual Fund.

Benefits to You

Charitable gifts are generally exempt from taxation for those who itemize deductions on their tax returns. The higher your tax rate, the more you can save when you make a donation to the College.

Gifts of appreciated property (stocks, bonds or mutual funds), held for longer than one year, allow you to bypass capital gains tax normally due when you sell the assets and provide you a charitable income tax deduction that reduces the cost of your gift.

Matching gifts allow you to double, or possibly triple, your gift at no additional cost to you, and are credited in full toward leadership gift club membership. Contact your human resource office to see if you work for a matching gift company.

Alumni participation is also one of the criteria used to leverage gifts from private and public foundations as well as corporations. Any gift of any size publicly demonstrates your pride and helps the College continue its tradition of excellence.

How You Can Help

Several gift options are available to you for making a financial contribution to LCCC. They include: a pledge, an outright contribution by cash, check or charge (Mastercard, Visa or Discover), securities (stocks, bonds or mutual funds) and a planned gift (bequest and charitable trust arrangement) through the Heritage Society. For more information, or to make a gift, contact the Alumni Office at (800) 377-LCCC, ext. 7734 or at 570-740-0734.

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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 4 Wilkes-Barre, PA

Office of Alumni Relations 1333 S. Prospect Street Nanticoke, Pa 18634-3899

Address Service Requested

LCCC logos through the years...

1967-1994

1994-1998

1998-Present