Photo includes Kaye Fink (left), Penn Highlands Community College, accepting the award from Tammy Garrett (right), Penn State Extension.
The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College KEYS Program was presented with the “Friends of Extension” award by Penn State Extension. The award was given due to great collaborative efforts over the past years when providing additional training to the students within the program.
The KEYS program is designed to help TANF and Food Stamp recipients succeed in community college. It was developed in response to growing research that shows that individuals who earn a credit-bearing certificate or an associate degree are better able to get jobs at family-sustaining wages with benefits and opportunities for advancement.
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College announced its plans for renovations to its Central Park Center at a small gathering of business and industry leaders. Officials from Penn Highlands, along with Representative Bryan Barbin, unveiled the $60,000 project, which includes classroom space and a conference room.
“This project demonstrates the continued efforts made by local leaders to develop a strong educational presence in the downtown area,” stated Representative Barbin. “Beginning in January 2019, Penn Highlands will be providing a variety of educational and training opportunities designed to meet the needs of all students.”
The classroom will seat 30 people, giving residents of downtown Johnstown easy access to courses and other programs offered by Penn Highlands. The new conference room will seat 12 and provide businesses with a centrally located, comfortable space to hold meetings and other small events.
“We expect that our downtown center will have an impact on Johnstown’s economy,” stated Dr. Walter Asonevich, College President. “Our Central Park Center is just the beginning of a larger role that Penn Highlands hopes to play in Johnstown.”
Construction on this project is set to begin shortly, with completion of the project scheduled before December. Penn Highlands plans to open the new space to the public in January 2019.
Project Funding Details
This project is being partially funded by a Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) grant totaling $40,000. Representative Bryan Barbin initiated the DCED grant, with JARI providing assistance during the application process.
A $20,000 match was required for the grant. The matching funds were obtained from three sources. The Penn Highlands Community College Foundation contributed $8,000, Community Foundation for the Alleghenies grant contributed $7,000, and five local banks contributed $1,000 each (AmeriServ Financial, First Commonwealth, First National, Northwest Savings, and 1ST SUMMIT).
Fall is here and Halloween is almost upon us. Penn Highlands Community College knows how to celebrate the season with its annual family-friendly Community Trick or Treat, which will be held on Monday, October 29, from 5:30pm to 7pm, at the College’s Richland Campus.
This event, intended for families with children who are 12 years old and under, is an experience that is not easily forgotten. Faculty, staff, and current students will be on-hand to give out free treats and candy.
Our Community Trick or Treat will have special areas dedicated to creating Halloween crafts and for our “Haunted Hospital”. The “Haunted Hospital” is intended for those looking for a scare, and it will have different levels of scariness so children of all ages can get in on the fun.
Also, for the first time, the Starkiller Garrison will be joining us! The Starkiller Garrison is a part of the 501st Legion, the largest Star Wars costuming club in the world. Get your cameras ready and hang out with some of your favorite characters from the Star Wars universe.
Last year, we had over 700 happy visitors. This year, we are prepared for that number to continue to grow as we create not only a community tradition, but also a family tradition.
Further details can be obtained by contacting Pennsylvania Highlands Student Activities at 814.262.6463 or studentactivities@pennhighlands.edu.
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College will be hosting an open house on Monday, October 22 from 6pm to 7:30pm at each of our locations in Blair, Ebensburg, Huntingdon, Richland, and Somerset.
Individuals will learn about Penn Highlands and its opportunities, including degree programs and coursework, transfer options, and more. Information on student life, including clubs and activities, and financial assistance will also be presented by representatives. Faculty and alumni will be on-hand to discuss their experiences.
As an added bonus, prospective students will be eligible to win a 2019/2020 tuition voucher, good for a $250 discount, if they complete a survey while in attendance.
Penn Highlands has been serving the community with quality and affordable academic options for over 20 years. To learn more, stop by our open house at one of our facilities.
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College held its 11th Annual Black Bear 5K on Saturday, September 22nd, at the College’s Richland Campus. Organizers would like to thank Wessel & Company for serving as the main event sponsor. Proceeds from the Black Bear 5K support student scholarships, program development, and Penn Highlands initiatives.
