Campus News


Pastry Arts students learn the latest industry trends

It may have looked like a well sculpted model of a pickup truck, but Luzerne County Community College student Charlotte Olsen's final project had a tasty secret. The little blue truck wasn't a model made of plastic, metal and paint. Instead, it was made of cookies, icing and food coloring. Olsen, along with classmates Madalyne Kelly and Brian Boston, recently completed their final project in Pastry Arts 106, Chocolate and Decorative Baking, under the supervision of Chef Renee Allardyce, LCCC professor. Throughout the spring class, the students learned the ins and outs of the craft, completing a variety of tasty treats that not only appealed to a person's sweet tooth, but to a person's appreciation of art.

LCCC's AI initiatives help graduates

Luzerne County Community College officials want students to be familiar with artificial intelligence, how it can be used responsibly, and how it can be used in industry. The College is offering a new class this fall called AI in Manufacturing and is looking into expanding that into a certificate program. Additionally, LCCC officials implemented a new AI policy campuswide to help students learn how to use AI responsibly and have installed a chatbot program on computers in one of the labs on the main campus that will help students learn more about AI.

Students learn STEM skills at Lego Camp

Every summer, Luzerne County Community College hosts students from local elementary and middle schools for its annual Lego robotics camp where, in the words of Howard Wolowitz from The Big Bang Theory, "Engineering is about turning ideas into reality" and these students did just that.

LCCC to hold open houses at Greater Susquehanna Center in August

Luzerne County Community College will hold two open houses in August at its Greater Susquehanna Center in Watsontown. The College will hold the open houses from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 20, and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24. The open houses will provide prospective students with more information on the center.

Seven LCCC athletes recognized for academic achievement

Seven Luzerne County Community College student athletes are showing they excel both athletically and academically. The Eastern Pennsylvania Athletic Conference (EPAC) recently recognized the students by naming them to the EPAC All-Academic Team. To be eligible, the students had to participate in a spring sport, achieve a minimum of a 3.25 grade point average and be enrolled in 12 credits.

LCCC to hold open houses at Berwick Center in August

Luzerne County Community College will hold two open houses in August at its Berwick Center. The College will hold the open houses from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24. The open houses will provide prospective students with more information on the center.

U.S. Sen. John Fetterman representatives tour LCCC's Health Sciences Center

Representatives from U.S. Sen. John Fetterman's office toured Luzerne County Community College's Francis S. and Mary Gill Carrozza, R.N. Health Sciences Center in Nanticoke on Tuesday. Cody Forgach, northeast regional representative for Sen. Fetterman, and Caroline Shaffer, Washington, D.C. Health and Education Committee staff lead for Sen. Fetterman, learned more about the College's Dental Health, Surgical Technology, Emergency Medical Services, Respiratory Therapy, and Nursing programs. Shown are, from left - John T. Yudichak, incoming president, LCCC; Karen Rainey, director, Benco Dental Clinic, LCCC; Cody Forgach, Northeast Regional Representative, U.S. Senator John Fetterman; Caroline Shaffer, DC Health and Education Committee Staff lead in Washington, D.C. for Sen. Fetterman; Susan Koronkiewicz, dean, Nursing and Health Sciences, LCCC; Dr. Mary Lou D'Allegro, vice president, Academic Affairs, LCCC; and Thomas P. Leary, president, LCCC.

Luzerne County Community College graduates meet workforce need

The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (PACCC) recently celebrated the 7,530 students who graduated from one of the state?s 15 community colleges in May. Community college graduates, including those who earned their credentials from Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) continue to fill workforce needs in their communities. Statewide, community college graduates received degrees in high priority occupation areas including the health sciences, early childhood education, teacher training, the trades, manufacturing and information technology/computer science.

President Yudichak was recently interviewed on the Sam Lesante show. Below is the link to the interview with Sam Lesante.

Alum credits LCCC for guiding her educational and career journey

"She believed she could, so she did" - Maya Angelou When you have siblings, you are expected to be the example. That is exactly what recent Luzerne County Community College graduate Lalaj Johnson is doing. As the 30-year-old gets ready to embark on the next phase of her life, she recalled fondly how her brother's positive experience at LCCC encouraged her to attend and now how her journey encouraged her sister to attend and study computer science.

State budget boosts LCCC's efforts to remain affordable and accessible

The following is a statement from LCCC President John Yudichak regarding the passage of the state budget: Pennsylvania's new state budget and higher education initiatives strengthen efforts by Luzerne County Community College to be the most affordable, most accessible, highest quality institution of higher education in northeastern Pennsylvania. We appreciate the leadership of Gov. Josh Shapiro and state lawmakers, especially our legislative partners in northeastern and central Pennsylvania, who have enabled us to better serve our students and our workforce development partners in business and industry.

Call for vendors for LCCC's 35th annual Craft Festival

Luzerne County Community College's Alumni Association is now accepting applications for new vendors for its 35th annual Craft festival. Vendor applications are being accepted now through Wednesday, July 31 for the juried show, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 in the gymnasium, Campus Center and courtyard at the main campus in Nanticoke.

LCCC seeks submissions for The Art of Music Exhibition

Artists from northeastern Pennsylvanian who were inspired by music to create visual artwork may have the chance to have their work showcased at Luzerne County Community College. LCCC is seeking submissions for The Art of Music Exhibition, which will run from Friday, Sept. 27 through Friday, Oct. 25 at the Schulman Gallery at the College's Nanticoke campus. The exhibit will feature visual artwork inspired by music.

Luzerne County Community College holds ribbon cutting for Yeager Arboretum

Luzerne County Community College students and the surrounding communities will now have access to a living, outdoor classroom. LCCC officials on Saturday held a ribbon cutting for the new Yeager Arboretum, which is housed throughout the main campus. The arboretum consists of trees identified by name with accompanying QR codes people can scan to learn more. The arboretum is named after donors Elizabeth (Libby) Yeager and the late W. Brooke Yeager III, who are longtime educators at LCCC. Brooke Yeager, who passed away in May, was a professor emeritus who retired from LCCC after teaching biology for many years. Libby Yeager is LCCC's Dean of Curriculum.

LCCC alumni looks to continue passion for helping others

Emily Kaufman always knew she wanted to go to college. Even though she had to leave high school after the ninth grade to help support her family, she never gave up on her dream. Her journey led her to Luzerne County Community College, where she showed her academic drive, commitment to helping others, and her commitment to herself by achieving her goal of getting an education.

President Thomas P. Leary appointed LC Historical Society Board

Luzerne County Community College President Thomas P. Leary will serve on the board of directors for the Luzerne County Historical Society. The board's Governance Committee recently accepted Leary's nomination to the board. He will serve a term of four years from 2024 through 2028 starting July 1.

Earl W. Lehman Reverence Art coming to LCCC

Luzerne County Community College will have an opening reception of the Earl W. Lehman "Reverence" Art Exhibition from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 28 at the Shulman Gallery at the main campus in Nanticoke. The reception will include live piano music and light refreshments. The exhibition showcases a selection of expressionistic landscapes and non-objective paintings created by Lehman, of Laceyville, in a variety of media, which exude feelings of deep respect for nature and the environment. After the opening reception, the exhibition will be on display at the gallery from June 28 through Aug. 2. Admission is free and open to the public.

Students/faculty have fun together during activities

If you walked past the fitness center and saw a group of students gathered, it was the Luzerne County Community College Student Life and Athletics first Ping Pong Tournament on April 11. The event brought together students, faculty, and staff to face each other in a friendly ping pong competition. Tyler Russell, LCCC director of Student Life and Athletics, said the event was an idea after several students and staff brought it to his attention.

LCCC honors graduates at spring 2024 commencement

Pacelyn April King knew she made the right decision attending Luzerne County Community College. As she stood in front of her peers giving the graduate address during the 56th annual LCCC Commencement Ceremony on May 23, King smiled as she recalled her experiences and the education she received at the College.

LCCC hosts veterans luncheon to honor those who served

As the homemade aroma of barbeque chicken, baby back ribs, hot dogs and cheeseburger sliders filled the air, Luzerne County Community College's Culinary Arts students watched as their guests enjoyed their creations. With meticulous care and culinary finesse, the students created the perfect lunch setting for their heartfelt mission to honor area veterans for their dedication and service to country. The luncheon was part of a special event Chef David Pembleton and students from his Restaurant Operations 1 class held recently as a way to not only showcase the students culinary skills but to show gratitude to those who have served.

LCCC unveils model classroom, addresses teacher shortage

Luzerne County Community College education majors will now have the opportunity to develop their skills in a model early childhood classroom setting on campus with the assistance of Luzerne County Head Start. LCCC officials unveiled its Marcella Nagorski-Waldow Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning Friday as part of a morning event that also addressed the national and regional teacher shortage and gave attendees a sneak peek at the new Yeager Arboretum, which will provide learning opportunities for the community.

LCCC to hold 26th annual Flea Market & Collectibles Show on June 1

Luzerne County Community College's Alumni Association will hold the 26th annual Flea Market & Collectibles Show from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday June 1 with a rain date of Sunday, June 2. The show will be held at LCCC's Educational Conference Center parking lot at the main campus in Nanticoke. Flea market vendors sell a variety of items that include household goods, collectibles, crafts, direct sales, food trucks and more. The flea market also includes a basket auction, raffle and other fun activities.

LCCC holds spring business symposium

Luzerne County Community College students recently got real-world experience in putting together a business conference. The College's Business Club organized and planned the 2024 Spring Business Symposium held recently at LCCC's Educational Conference Center. The symposium featured Susan Unvarsky, a retired executive leader in the finance industry, LCCC alum and LCCC Board of Trustees member; Laure Gorney, founder/owner of NEPA'rogi and LCCC alum; and George E. Shadie, SEP, CLU, president and co-founder of Supporting Autism and Families Everywhere and financial services professional for New York Life Securities.

Two LCCC students named to 2024 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team

Two Luzerne County Community College students received high marks for their academic success recently. The Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges (PACCC) recently selected Emily Kaufman and Miguel Saldana as members of the 2024 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team. The PACCC honored them and other students from Pennsylvania's community colleges at a reception in Harrisburg. Additionally, Kaufman is a Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholarship recipient.

President Leary helps encourage children's love of reading

The Head Start children hung on every word Luzerne County Community College President Thomas P. Leary read. With each rhyming set of words from Dr. Seuss' "The Eye Book," the children giggled, smiled or looked excitedly at Leary in anticipation of how the story would unfold next. Although the teachers had the children sit for the story, some stood because they couldn?t contain their enthusiasm over the playful yet educational story.

Six LCCC basketball players named to All-Academic Team

Luzerne County Community College's basketball team is showing everyone they have what it takes both on and off the court. The Eastern Pennsylvania Athletic Conference (EPAC) recently named six Trailblazers to the All-Academic Team. For EPAC to name a player to the team, the person has to play in a fall sport and have a minimum grade point average of 3.25. The players who made the All-Academic Team are Michael Crespo Ruiz, William Preston, Matthew Panchura, Ousmane Diallo, John Occhipinti, and Lane Haneef.

Therapy dogs offer fun and relaxing distraction for students

As soon as Willow walked into the classroom at Luzerne County Community College's Pittston Center, Sarah Minella couldn't contain her excitement. The LCCC student quickly walked over, threw her arms around her new canine friend's neck, and gave her a hug. Minella sat on the floor next to the light-colored English lab, gently patting the dog on the head as Willow leaned in to soak up the affection.

LCCC President visits local alumni-owned business in Nanticoke

As the employees of NEPA'rogi worked on the latest batches of perogies, Luzerne County Community College President Thomas P. Leary smiled and listened intently as Lauren Gorney gave him a tour of her business. As Gorney took him to the different pierogi-making stations, Leary learned how the LCCC alumni turned her dream into reality. Leary's visit to NEPA'rogi, along with other stops he's made over the years, gives him the chance to see how LCCC is helping graduates succeed in their local communities.

LCCC to showcase student artwork at the Schulman Gallery

Luzerne County Community College will have an opening reception of the 2024 Communication Arts Student Exhibition at the Schulman Gallery on Friday, May 3. The reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will include live piano music and light refreshments. There will be portfolio presentations and the presentation of President?s Choice Awards in the Gallery. After the opening reception, the exhibition will be on display at the gallery from May 3 through June 7 and will highlight original artworks in a variety of media and categories created by students currently enrolled in LCCC's Communication Arts Program.

LCCC raises awareness about sexual assault

They wore teal to raise awareness. They educated themselves on the dangers of sexual assault. And, they saw messages from survivors. Luzerne County Community College students learned more about sexual assault during the national Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month in April.

LCCC to hold Health Science Information Night, May 15

Interested in a career in the medical field? What to learn more about Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Surgical Technology, Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, EFDA and EMS? Save the date and attend LCCC's Health Science Information Night from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15 at the Carrozza Health Science Center, 38 E. Main Street in Nanticoke.

Internationally recognized humanitarian to speak at commencement ceremony

During Luzerne County Community College's 56th annual commencement ceremony on May 23, students will learn the importance of keeping a promise and how it can transform a person's life. Alex Sheen, internationally recognized humanitarian and founder of the "because I said I would" movement, will be this year's commencement speaker and will talk to the students about the importance of a promise. LCCC's spring commencement will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 23 at the Mohegan Sun Arena, 1 Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre. About 600 students will graduate from the College.

LCCC to host history events about NEPA and Nanticoke's Concrete City

Area residents can learn more about a 1920s abandoned state-of-the-art concrete housing development in Nanticoke and other Northeast Pennsylvania landmarks during two community events in April. As part of NEPA Appreciation Week, Luzerne County Community College is hosting a screening of NEPADOC from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 9 and holding the Concrete City and Abandoned Pennsylvania: A Community Symposium from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on April 11. Both events will be held in the Education Conference Center's auditorium at the College's main campus in Nanticoke. Free refreshments will be offered at both events and the public is invited to attend.

Luzerne County Community College will host an open house from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on July 9 at the Scranton Center, the Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave. in Scranton.

The event will give prospective students a chance to learn more about LCCC and the Center. The open house will feature admission and financial aid information, tours and light refreshments. Staff will be on hand to answer questions.

"Our Center offers an accessible and affordable opportunity for students to start college here in Scranton," said Julie Lenio, director of LCCC's Scranton Center. "We offer several general education courses as well as courses for some of our majors. Classes are offered at different times of the day so students can attend during the day and evenings."

Students can also earn their degrees in business administration, business management and early childhood through classes offered onsite in Scranton and online. New for the fall 2024 semester, LCCC is offering courses required for its criminal justice degrees.

Current high school students are eligible to enroll in college credit courses at LCCC's Scranton Center. Early College prepares students for higher learning and increases academic success and retention.

Additionally, the Scranton Center now offers English as a Second Language classes to help students learn the necessary English language skills to enroll in college-level courses.

"Our ESL comprehensive program has the goal of helping students achieve the level of language proficiency required to succeed in college and beyond," Lenio said.

For information about attending open house, call the Scranton Center at 570-740-0210.

Luzerne County Community College student athletes are showing they excel both athletically and academically. The Eastern Pennsylvania Athletic Conference (EPAC) recently recognized the students by naming them to the EPAC All-Academic Team. To be eligible, the students had to participate in a spring sport, achieve a minimum of a 3.25 grade point average and be enrolled in 12 credits.

EPAC named the following students to the All-American Team.
William 'Gabriel' Preston, LCCC Men's Basketball and Baseball;
Ousmane Diallo, LCCC Men's Basketball;
Matthew Panchura, LCCC Men's Basketball;
Christopher Johnson, LCCC Men's Basketball and Baseball;
Elijah Samuel, LCCC Men's Baseball;
Ayden Everett, LCCC Men's Baseball; and
Bruce Leatherman, LCCC Men's Baseball.

The Luzerne County Community College Trailblazers baseball team will return to the field Sunday, April 21 for their home opener of the season. The men's team will play at noon against Bergen Community College at the LCCC's baseball field, weather permitting.

"Our baseball team is back and better than ever," LCCC President Thomas P. Leary said. "We have an excellent group of dedicated students who are ready to carry on the tradition of LCCC sports. We are proud and lucky to have these fine student athletes representing the College as they compete this season. We know our team will definitely show the competition we mean business. But no matter what happens this season, this group of student athletes are all winners to us, and we are so proud of them."

LCCC's team started its season in early March and has played two double-header away games against top-ranked teams from New Jersey, Brookdale Community College and Rowen College of South Jersey. Although the Trailblazers lost those teams, the matchups gave the LCCC players the chance to hone their skills by playing against tough teams.

"Our team scored four runs in the last two innings," said Ross Turetsky, LCCC head baseball coach, of the matchup against RCSJ. "We rallied at the end of game two. Our guys showed a lot of heart and showed they weren't going to quit. When you play against a top-rated team, you can learn something. Our guys showed us they weren't going to give up and remained in the game and gave everything they got. We are so proud of their effort."

With the spirit the team showed during the first few games, Turetsky said he is excited to see how the players will perform against the other teams during the rest of the season, which is expected to wrap up on May 4.

"We're going to face some tough opponents this season, but this will be good because this will show us where we're at," Turetsky said.

Although the season is currently underway, College officials are always looking for interested players. When Turetsky isn't coaching team members, he is looking for potential players ready to wear the Trailblazers jersey.

Tyler Russell, LCCC director of Student Life and Athletics, said participating in sports at the collegiate level enhances students' experiences while attending college.

"Being involved in an extracurricular activity like joining a sports team can help students improve academically because those experiences teach them problem solving, time management and critical thinking skills," Russell said. "They also teach soft skills like teamwork and emotional intelligence because they are learning to work together. They can then use those skills to help them succeed in life and be well prepared in their future careers."

Luzerne County Community College dental alumni and professionals from the local community will learn more about the latest dental topics during the College's 25th annual Dental Health Alumni Day.

The event, which is sponsored by Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Enova Illuminations, will be held on Friday, May 10 at LCCC's Educational Conference Center, 916 Conference Drive, in Nanticoke.

The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will feature Tom Viola, R.P.h., C.C.P., who has more than 30 years of experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author.

Viola has earned his national and international reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for all members of the dental team.
During the morning session, Viola will hold the "Make it Stick" presentation, which will provide an overview of the pharmacology and therapeutics of the injectable and topical anesthetic agents commonly used in dental practices.

For the afternoon session, Violate will hold the "Phantom of the Opera-tory" presentation. The program will present an overview of dental pharmacology for the whole dental team. Special emphasis will be given to those medications prescribed or administered in the practice of dentistry whose actions, effects or interactions with other drugs may impact treatment of system disease.

For more information, contact the Alumni Office at (570) 740-0734.

Luzerne County Community College will host its annual Race for a Cause 5K Run or Fun Walk at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 26 at the Nanticoke campus to help students in need.

There will be a registration fee of $20 per person. Swag will be given to the first 60 registered participants. The race is sponsored by the LCCC Health, Physical Education & Exercise Science Department.

"We hold this annual race as a way for the College and surrounding communities to come together to help our students," said Miranda Costa, LCCC fitness center staff/Associate Professor for HPE/Head Cross Country Coach. "This is one of the many ways we show our students that we support them. College is a time for students to study and prepare for their futures. For those who are struggling financially, fundraisers like this can help them worry less and focus on college."

Awards will be given to the first overall male and female finishers in the race. Awards will also be given to the top three finishers in the following age groups for both males and females - 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and over.

For more information or to register, email mcosta@luzerne.edu or call (570) 740-0237.

Luzerne County Community College will hold a Culinary Arts Open House from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24. The event will be held at the Joseph A. Paglianite Culinary Arts Institute, 6 N. Main Street in Nanticoke.

Students will have the chance to explore the College's programs. Faculty will be on hand to discuss learning and career opportunities. Admissions and financial aid officers will be available to assist with questions and provide tours.

To register, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/yshgqqy

Luzerne County Community College is showing support for survivors of sexual assault. The College community recently came together to wear teal to show everyone LCCC cares. Additionally, the College is planning several activities designed to raise awareness. Those activities include:

Throughout April: College officials will have t-shirts from the Clothesline Project displayed on the third floor of the Campus Center in Nanticoke. The t-shirts were created by survivors of violence or in honor of those who experienced violence. The color of the shirts represents the type of violence the person experienced.

Wednesday, April 17: LCCC will also host the Red Sand Project at 11 a.m. outside the rotunda at the Campus Center. Victim Resources Center will have a brief presentation about human trafficking. Students will place red sand in the cracks of the sidewalk outside to represent no one ever falling through the cracks.

Wednesday, April 24: The College will also hold a Day of Awareness from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the third floor of the Campus Center. Organizers will hand out information on sexual assault. The event will include music, Esports free play day and a visit from Pleasure of Your Company therapy dogs. There will also be free ice cream, French fries, and students can enter to win a raffle basket.

The Luzerne County Community College Wellness Committee will hold its Wellness Fair from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 at the College's Campus Center, third floor.

The LCCC HPE 151 Health Promotion, Fitness and Sport Programing will demonstrate grip strength, perform body composition analysis, and blood pressure screenings.

The LCCC Student Life and Athletic's office will provide a healthy snack. Additional information will be provided about recycling, caring communities, pathway to recovery, and CEO Food Bank.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call LCCC at 570-740-0237 or (800) 377-LCCC, extension 7237.

Luzerne County Community College's AllOne Recovery Educational Institute (AREI) will host a Collegiate Recovery Day starting at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 15. The event will be held on the second floor of the College's Campus Center in Nanticoke. It is part of national Collegiate Recovery Week.

The AREI program was created in 2019 through a $1.19 million private grant. The program has served more than 300 students in recovery.

During the April 15 event, participants will be able to make their own tie-dyed t-shirts. Organizers will also give out Collegiate Recovery Bracelets and attendees can fill out inspirational cards that will be displayed. There will also be free popcorn.

The event is designed to take the stigma out of recovery and show students that they can succeed.

Area children can get a free dental cleaning and checkup at Luzerne County Community College's Kids' Dental Day. The College will hold the event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 6 at the Benco Dental Clinic at 38 E. Main St. in Nanticoke. Parents can call (570) 740-0446 to book their appointments. Appointments are preferred for the cleanings but LCCC officials will take some walk-ins.

"Our second-year dental hygiene students will be performing free dental hygiene care for children three to 17 years old," said Julie Cleary, professor of LCCC's Dental Hygiene Program. "Dental health is so important and we need to start educating children at a young age about taking care of their teeth. By making sure you get regular checkups and cleanings, and ensuring you care for your teeth properly each and every day, you can help prevent tooth decay."

LCCC second-year students will be performing free exams, x-rays, cleanings and other work based on a patient's needs. The results will be sent to the child's regular dentist. The College will have 10 stations set up where children can visit to learn more about dental topics in a fun way. No appointments are needed to visit those stations. At each one, children will receive a prize. At the end of their visit, each child will get a spin toothbrush to help them continue to care for their teeth. LCCC's first-year dental hygiene students will be manning the information stations.

"Luzerne County Community College is committed to educating not only the students we serve but also the local communities," said LCCC President Thomas P. Leary. "By offering the Kids' Dental Day annual event, we are creating a real-world learning experience for our students, which makes them better prepared when they enter the workforce. Our students are also helping to educate young children about the benefits of good dental hygiene, which can help prevent illnesses and keep them healthy."

The event also gives LCCC second-year dental students the chance to use what they've learned in the classroom in a real-life setting under the supervision of a dentist.

"We have several stations in our clinic that are set up just like you would find in a real dental clinic," Cleary said. "By having all of our students participate, our first-year students learn the importance of interacting with clients while our second-year students get the hands-on experience of actually doing the work."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website indicated that one in six children between the ages of 6 and 11 have had at least one cavity. Additionally, more than half of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 19 have had a cavity with about one in six having untreated cavities. Nationwide, about 34 million school hours are lost because of unplanned, emergency dental care, the CDC indicated.

We are excited to invite you to our Open House on April 13, 2024, 9:30 am to 12 pm. This is a great opportunity to meet our faculty members and learn about the programs we offer. You will also be able to speak with our admissions and financial aid staff to get any questions you may have answered.

In addition to these informative sessions, we will also be hosting a breakfast in the Trailblazer Cafe at 9:30 am. This is a great chance to connect with other prospective students and get a feel for the campus community.Join the LCCC staff and faculty for a day of exploration on our main campus in Nanticoke, PA. After breakfast in our Trailblazer Café you will be able to chat with faculty, tour our facilities and have your admissions and financial aid questions answered. You can even apply and be admitted on the spot!

If there's one thing in common for everyone in the world, no matter your race, gender, ethnicity, it's that we are all people. Going about our days, doing normal human tasks and the days of Ancient Greece weren't any different. Luzerne County Community College History Club and club President Olivia Kishbaugh will be hosting an Ancient Greece lecture on Thursday, March 21 at 12:30 p.m. in Room 917 at the Main Campus.

Of all the countries and cultures in the world, why Ancient Greece? Club President Olivia Kishabugh said coming up with one mutual topic was difficult but eventually, the club agreed on Ancient Greece. "We were debating what we were going to do, and we narrowed it down to what is something big that can cover everyone's interests within one big umbrella and eventually, we all settled on Ancient Greece," said Kishbaugh.

The club decided on lighter topics to discuss instead of the traditional dark war and politics. Mostly because those topics weren't what they were interested in. They were interested in the kind of jobs they had, the types of clothing they wore, the homes they lived in, what they were built out of, what they used for beds, hygiene, etc.

"When everyone talks about history, they always talk about war from the Vietnam War to Civil War to World War II, but we wanted to make it lighter and say, 'yeah there was war and heavy events that happened, but they were people,'" said Kishbaugh. "They bathed together, they ate together, they had lives, they were people. That was my focus in doing this [lecture], just a reminder that we're all people."

Kishbaugh said that the history club is always accepting new members whether you're a history buff or just wanting to make new friends. "Come hang out and nerd out with us, even if you're not doing anything. We talk about random history facts from Napoleon to the Civil War to World War II, we're just nerds hanging out."

Luzerne County Community College is hosting a campus-wide food drive. The food drive runs from March 11 through 22.

People can drop off their donations at the following LCCC locations:
- Main campus in Nanticoke at 521 Trailblazer Drive
- Wilkes-Barre Center at 2 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre
- Berwick Center at the Eagles Building, 107 S. Market St., Berwick
- Hazleton Center at 100 W. Broad St., Suite 108, Hazleton
- Pittston Center at Education Center, 13 S. Main St., Pittston
- Scranton Center at the Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton
- Shamokin Center at the Northumberland Regional Higher Education Center, 2 E. Arch St., Shamokin
- Watsontown Center at the Greater Susquehanna Center, 1100 Main St., Watsontown

People can also donate through LCCC's Food Bank Amazon Wish List by calling (570) 740-0735.

Luzerne County Community College is working toward ending hunger among its students. From March 11 through 22, the campus and its seven centers will be collecting food donations from the community that will be used at its student food banks the College has at each location.

People who are interested in donating can drop off items at LCCC's Campus Center at the main campus in Nanticoke at 521 Trailblazer Drive and at the College's seven centers, see list below. They can also donate through LCCC's Food Bank Amazon Wish List by calling (570) 740-0735.

"We're urging the public to donate to this important cause, which helps students who are facing food insecurity," said LCCC President Thomas P. Leary. "Our students are always our top priority, so we want to make sure they have the necessary resources to succeed. Research shows there's a connection between hunger and negative school performance. Our food banks and the generous donations we receive ensure our students can succeed in the classroom so they can get their education and be successful in their local job markets."

LCCC is holding the food drive in conjunction with National Nutrition Month. A recent study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health showed that food-insecure students were more than 40 percent less likely to graduate college.

The College created the Peter J. Lello Student Food Bank at the main campus in Nanticoke in 2016 and has opened other food banks at all other centers over the years to help fight food insecurity. The food bank was named after the late Lello, who devoted his life to charitable causes including addressing hunger issues. Lello joined the staff at LCCC in 2006 as a major gifts officer and planning giving specialist and was instrumental in raising money for the Public Safety Training Institute, the Joseph A. Paglianite Culinary Institute, and the Francis and Mary Gill Carrozza, RN, Health Science Center.

"The mission of the College's Student Food Banks is to work to eliminate hunger and food insecurities among our students and their families," said Rebecca Brominski, Executive Director, LCCC Foundation. "Food drives like this one will support and feed hundreds of LCCC students and their families throughout the year."

Students use LCCC's food banks regularly and can get ready-made, to-go items or take-home food that they can make later. Kevin Lloyd, LCCC student, said the food bank is vital to the student community because it ensures there is food for those who may need it.

"Having something to eat helps us focus in class so we can do well academically," Lloyd said. "It's hard to focus when you're hungry. For students who may not be able to afford a lot of food, our food bank ensures that you have access to something nutritious to eat instead of going hungry."

The following are the drop off locations for the food drive:
- Main campus in Nanticoke at 521 Trailblazer Drive
- Wilkes-Barre Center at 2 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre
- Berwick Center at the Eagles Building, 107 S. Market St., Berwick
- Hazleton Center at 100 W. Broad St., Suite 108, Hazleton
- Pittston Center at Education Center, 13 S. Main St., Pittston
- Scranton Center at the Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton
- Shamokin Center at the Northumberland Regional Higher Education Center, 2 E. Arch St., Shamokin
- Watsontown Center at the Greater Susquehanna Center, 1100 Main St., Watsontown

As the music quieted for a moment, students, faculty, and staff listened intently as Joseph Patterson spoke about Martin Luther King Jr. The imagines that played on the three large screens in Luzerne County Community College's cafeteria provided attendees with a glimpse into King's life as a Civil Rights leader.

"He was one of the greatest men in our history," Patterson said as the iconic and powerful words of King's "I Have a Dream" speech showed on the screens.

Patterson, along with Nathan Harman and Joy Massie, sang in the Totally Awesome Traveling Black History Show at LCCC on Feb. 19 as part of the College's Black History Month activities. The College's Office of Student Life & Athletics sponsored the event to help teach students and the College community about Black history.

"We're honored to offer events like the Totally Awesome Traveling Black History Show at Luzerne County Community College because it gives our students an additional opportunity to learn beyond the classroom," said LCCC President Thomas P. Leary. "At Luzerne, our faculty and staff are always looking for ways to enrich the lives of our students. This show teaches our campus community about the men and women who have played a vital role in societal changes throughout the years."

Patterson, who owns Key Arts Productions, puts on the show for colleges, universities, high schools, middle schools and elementary schools.

"We want to highlight Black History and honor all the work that has been done throughout the years," said Patterson, who is based out of Philadelphia and has brought his show to LCCC for 10 years. "We can all learn from each other. Our shows are meant to show how it's beautiful to be different and we should embrace that."

Throughout the show, participants were able to sing along and clap to popular songs like "Respect" by Aretha Franklin, songs of faith like "This Little Light of Mine," and music from blues artists and Black composers like John Legend.

"This group does a wonderful job portraying events throughout history," said Teddi Janosov, secretary of Student Life and who has coordinated the event at LCCC for the past 14 years. "Every event they have done for us is different and gives our students an in-depth look at the different genres of Black History."

In between the music, attendees learned more about historic figures such as King, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman and Ruby Bridges. Bridges attended a desegrated elementary school in New Orleans in 1960 and had to be escorted by federal marshals to school when she was 6 years old.

"People would throw things at her as she entered her school," Patterson explained as the singers sang in the background. "She had said she thought it was part of Mardi Gras and didn't realize what people were actually doing to her. She was instrumental in making big steps in the Civil Rights movement."

Campus Candids - John Yudichak Inauguration - 2024

John Yudichak became the 8th president of Luzerne County Community College on September 14, 2024, at his Inauguration Ceremony at the College's Educational Conference Center.

The Inauguration of President John Yudichak