Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) is pleased to announce that David Pedri, President and CEO of the Luzerne Foundation, will serve as the keynote speaker for its 57th annual commencement ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 29th, 2025, at the Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza.
John Yudichak, President of LCCC, expressed his enthusiasm about having Pedri as the keynote speaker. "It is an honor to have Dave Pedri serve as the keynote speaker for the first Commencement Ceremony of my tenure as President of Luzerne County Community College. Dave?s passion for educational opportunities and social justice exemplifies the mission of LCCC, empowering individual student success and fostering a positive impact on our community."
David Pedri has an extensive background in public service, having dedicated much of his career to improving the lives of the residents of Luzerne County. He began his tenure as County Manager in 2016, where he successfully managed a workforce of 1,500 employees and a $300 million annual budget. Under his leadership, the county made significant financial and organizational strides, including eliminating over $250 million in debt and achieving its highest credit rating in history. Pedri's commitment to community outreach is evident through initiatives such as the Luzerne County Cares Community Expo and the "Rockin' on the River" concert series, which foster connections between citizens and local services.
With a solid foundation in law, Pedri previously served as an attorney in the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office, where he successfully prosecuted numerous cases, and later as in-house counsel for the county. Currently, as President and CEO of the Luzerne Foundation, his focus is on addressing community needs through strategic grantmaking and educational scholarships.
Reflecting on his upcoming address, Pedri shared, "I am incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to address these graduates. I remember what it felt like to be in their shoes, and I look forward to sharing my journey and encouraging them as they embark on their own paths."
Luzerne County Community College has proudly served the region for over six decades, supporting the educational aspirations of more than 37,000 graduates who contribute to a diverse range of industries. As the most accessible college in northeastern Pennsylvania, LCCC remains committed to student success and community development. For more information about the commencement ceremony and to stay updated on college news, please visit www.luzerne.edu.