September 22, 2020
Volume 2 | Issue 38
Your Weekly Commission Update
Community colleges play an important role in educating and training current and future generations of workers,
in addition to providing affordable and responsive higher education to thousands of Pennsylvanians every year.
Community Colleges are a Local Resource for Economic Recovery
In an article recently published by Working Nation, journalist Victoria Lim explores a viable path to economic recovery and stability – short-term training and certificate programs offered by community colleges. "...community colleges are often focused on the resources and programs that not only get people to work, but upskilled for jobs of the future, in less time..." the article says.
Individuals with a Two-Year Degree Earn at least $6,500 more Annually
"During a lifetime, earnings increase by $300,000 for an associate degree... These numbers are certainly eye opening. But the value of higher education is deeper than financial gain. College graduates are more able to choose a career of their liking," writes Luzerne County Community College President Tom Leary in a recent submission to The Citizen's Voice.
PA College Nursing Program Ranks Among Best in Nation
Northampton Community College's associate degree in nursing has been ranked among the nation's best nursing schools for 2020. The college was within the top 15 nursing schools in the Northeast Region. NursingProcess.org scores each college based on NCLEX-RN Pass Rates as well as affordability, quality of education and outstanding reputation.
Continuing Coverage
PA Community Colleges Respond to COVID-19 as Situation Evolves
Pennsylvania community colleges continue to evaluate their response to COVID-19. As guidance changes, the most up-to-date information from each community college is available through the Commission's website.
Milestones & Congratulations
Congratulations to Dr. L. Joy Gates Black, President of Delaware County Community College, on being honored with the 2020 ATHENA Leadership Award by the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. A luncheon will be held Thursday, October 8 to honor this year's award recipients.

Congratulations to Susan Looney, J.D., Ed.D , President of Reading Area Community College, on recently being appointed Vice Chair of the Reading Hospital Board of Directors.
Birthday Wishes
Happy (belated) Birthday to Majority Leader Sen. Jake Corman, Sen. Kim Ward, Sen. Mike Regan, Sen. Katie Muth, Sen. Bob Mensch, Sen. Lindsey Williams, Sen. Christine Tartaglione, Rep. Stephen Samuelson, Rep. Tommy Sankey, Rep. Marty Flynn, Rep. Keith Gillespie, Rep. Jesse Topper, Rep. Mary Jo Daley, Rep. Brian Sims, Rep. Angel Cruz, Rep. Seth Grove, Rep. Melissa Shusterman, Rep. Torren Ecker, Rep. Jeff Pyle, Rep. Morgan Cephas, Rep. Rob Kauffman, Rep. Justin Simmons, Rep. Ryan Warner, and Rep. David Maloney, Sr. May it be the best year yet!