New Center Thrives

Greater Susquehanna Valley Area’s New LCCC Center Thrives

In August of 2019, Luzerne County Community College held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its newest dedicated center in Northumberland County. Located at the former Watsontown Elementary School, the new LCCC Greater Susquehanna Center features five classrooms, two computer labs, office space, student lounge and a common area. One year later, the Center is gaining traction and finding its niche even during a pandemic.

“We’re really excited to bring that College access into the region,” says Kelly Foran, director of the Greater Susquehanna Center. “I think being able to offer a college education at such an affordable cost is what surprises most of the people who arrive here inquiring about our academic programs.”

Foran, a native to Columbia County, graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor’s Degree in music education and from School for International Training Graduate Institute with a Master’s Degree in international education. She has worked as a music teacher in Philadelphia, as a coordinator in education and community development projects in Belize, and most recently worked in higher education at the University of Alaska in Anchorage.

LCCC President Thomas P. Leary says the Center in Watsontown couldn’t have happened without the support of the community.

“I’m really impressed with the interest we have here on the part of the community,” he stated. “The school districts, the superintendents, the educational leaders, and the Chamber of Commerce, are so committed to our success here and are helping us build on the momentum.”

Leary pointed out that it’s essential for Luzerne and the area leaders to educate the area just what a community college does and what it can do.

Luzerne County Community College committed $100,000 for the first year toward tuition and construction costs.

The College and the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber are seeking donations from Union, Snyder, Montour, Northumberland, Lycoming and Clinton counties that will allow the in-county tuition rate for students remain at $130 a credit.

The College is looking to renovate the Center further with a new science lab.

“We feel this investment we’re making, this commitment we’re making, this area is rich for community college opportunities,” says Leary. “We get a sense from the community on what is really needed and we try to partner with the community to get the necessary investment, technology and equipment to offer that.”

“With the new science lab,” Foran says, “we’ll be able to offer some of the science courses that are needed for our pre-health majors and our science majors.” Foran also expressed that many

Kelly Foran, Director of the LCCC Greater Susquehanna Center in Watsontown, PA