Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) announced it has been awarded a $1,000,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Education Dual Credit Innovation Grant program. The funding will enhance LCCC?s efforts to expand access to dual credit programs that deliver college credit coursework for underserved students from high school Career & Technical Centers (CTCs).

Inspired by higher education reforms championed by Governor Josh Shapiro and members of the northeastern Pennsylvania state legislative delegation, the Dual Credit Innovation Grant program aligns perfectly with LCCC's commitment to ensuring that high school students can successfully secure postsecondary education credentials and pursue high-demand, high-wage career pathways. LCCC will forge new partnerships with the Hazleton Area Career Center, the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center, and the West Side Career & Technical Center to provide more than 2,000 high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits toward certifications, diplomas, or degrees in various career and technology programs.

"We are very grateful Governor Shapiro and our state legislators recognize the value of Luzerne County Community College and so robustly support its mission to deliver the highest quality, most accessible pathways to earning a college degree or post-secondary credential," said John Yudichak, President of LCCC.

The $1 million Duell Credit Innovation Grant will encourage students to enroll in college courses that correspond with their high school CTC programs, such as Welding, Electrical Technology, Plumbing, HVAC, Culinary Arts, and Early Childhood Education. By focusing on high-demand careers, the program aims to create a strong pipeline of skilled workers in northeastern Pennsylvania.

For more information about the LCCC and the Dual Credit Enrollment Grant program, please contact Philip Schoener, Director of Public Relations & External Affairs, at 570-740- 0204 or pschoener@luzerne.edu