LCCC celebrates 25 years in Northumberland County

Francis Scarcella, The Daily Item, Sunbury, Pa.
·2 min read

May 6—SHAMOKIN — Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) continues to provide educational opportunities to Valley residents and it shows by remaining in Shamokin for the past 25 years, according to a Northumberland County commissioner.

Commissioner Sam Schiccatano said he is proud of the college and what they have been able to do for residents of the Valley for the past 25 years.

"To remain here this long and continue to provide quality education is great for our county and surrounding counties," he said during a 25-year-celebration held at the Shamokin center this past week.

Luzerne County Community College officials, students, alumni and other dignitaries spoke on the importance the college has in the area.

"LCCC's Northumberland Regional Center is a special place where students can go to help them succeed in their lives," LCCC President Thomas P. Leary said.

"For the last 25 years, we have helped people in this area get the education and training they need to be prepared for the local workforce. The citizens of the greater Shamokin area have been very receptive to LCCC and we are proud to be able to partner with you to ensure you have everything you need to be successful in life," Leary said.

The college opened the center in Shamokin in 1999 and has remained on the 4th floor of the Northumberland County Career and Arts Center.

Lori Laniewski, director of the center, said the college plays a vital role in the community.

"We are celebrating 25 years of excellence in education, our commitment to this community and our commitment to student success," she said.

According to college officials, the most popular programs students enroll in at the center include criminal justice, psychology, business, general students, early childhood education and nursing.

Laniewski said LCCC saw that trained nurses were needed in the area and, in May 2022, the college expanded its nursing program offerings in Shamokin.

"This expansion aimed to meet the growing demand for health care professionals in the region, providing area residents with more opportunities for specialized education and training in the field of nursing," Laniewski said.

Schiccatano and Commissioner Joe Klebon, who were both in attendance, said they are pleased with the partnership the county has had with LCCC over the years.

"Our relationship with LCCC has really grown over the years," Schiccatano said. "It's been a great 25-year partnership and we hope we will see another 25 years and more."