The Junior Leadership Hazleton (JLH) program officially commenced its new academic year with the opening session for the Class of 2025-26 on August 19, 2024, at the Penn State Hazleton Campus. Program Coordinator Michael Dougherty welcomed participants, expressing enthusiasm about the growth and development he anticipates throughout the year. “It is always a great experience to see the class grow and change throughout the JLH year,” Dougherty stated. He emphasized the program’s role in enhancing the knowledge and abilities of local youth as they explore their community.
Engaging Activities and Insightful Speakers
The opening session featured a series of engaging activities and presentations aimed at fostering team-building and career readiness. Dr. Barbara Conway, an adjunct faculty member at King’s College and Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit, initiated the day with a lively game of bingo, assisted by Dr. Keith “Jake” Boyer, a retired school superintendent. Following this, Conway led a discussion on effective team-building strategies.
Another highlight was a presentation by Sabrina Tomaskovic, associate director of admissions at the Penn State Hazleton Campus, who shared valuable insights on navigating the transition to college in her session titled “Seeking Success: A Guide for College and Beyond.” Meanwhile, Jane Dougherty from the Junior Leadership Hazleton team provided an overview of the significance of volunteering within the community.
Throughout the event, Dr. Jim Caggiano assisted in facilitating the presentations, ensuring that the day was both productive and enjoyable for all attendees.
Introducing the Class of 2025-26
The Class of 2025-26 comprises students from various local schools, including the Hazleton Area Academy of Science, Hazleton Area Career Center, and Marian Catholic High School. Notable participants include:
- Hazleton Area Academy of Science: Abigail Bachman, Viarys Dominguez, Jareyvi Elich Santiago, Raphael Hernandez, Yevhenii Hradil, Julia Kintzel, Gregory Kupsho, Eva Pasca, Luca Pasca, Kimberly Ramirez, and Jaelys Rivas-Mateo.
- Hazleton Area Career Center: Nashla Alvarado Grullon, Santino DeLorenzo, Rose Guzman, and Jessica Tatis.
- Hazleton Area Arts and Humanities Academy: Taryn Leonard, Xavier Perez, and Destiny Rodriguez Diaz.
- Hazleton Area High School: Yolianny Dominguez.
- Marian Catholic High School: Elyse Barletta, Maddison Malloy, and Griahnny Santos-Urena.
- Weatherly Area High School: Ben Kropp, Mary Portell, and Chance Stauffer.
- MMI Preparatory School: Christina Chrin, Alexa Fazio, and Ruhani Shah.
Students from the Class of 2024-25, including Kim Tejada, Kelly Reiner, Rose Fernandez, and Hiboni Balbuena-Marte, supported the program coordinator in various capacities during the session. The JLH team also includes members such as Joe Clark, Pat Korb, and Ted Sherrock.
The next session is scheduled for September 23, 2024, and will focus on “The History of Hazleton.” Junior Leadership Hazleton is dedicated to the memory of Dr. L. Edgar Dessen, founder of CAN DO, and is administered by Leadership Hazleton, an affiliate of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce. Funding for the program is partially provided by the CAN DO Community Foundation.
