For over 25 years, Penn Highlands has helped students across the region find themselves and what is right for them. Take a peek at their journeys, see what they discovered; maybe it will inspire your own discovery.
Meet Hind Achouri, a multicultural student who found her calling at Penn Highlands. Attracted by the College’s combination of affordability and high-quality education, Hind flourished in its supportive environment. Even before graduation, Hind secured a full-time role in the marketing field. Discover how Penn Highlands became a life-changing chapter in her journey.
When Matthew’s son asked him a simple question, he knew words alone wouldn’t cut it. As a husband, father of two, and driven professional, Matthew enrolled at Penn Highlands to pursue his degree on his own terms. His son’s question became a defining moment; a reminder that it’s never too late to invest in yourself and lead by example.
Discover the journey of Trinity Hyatt, who found her passion and a supportive community in our Culinary Arts program. After exploring a couple of different majors, Trinity decided to switch to culinary and give it her all. She was welcomed with open arms into an environment where she felt comfortable to learn, grow, and pursue her calling.
Meet Michaela Detwiler, a single mother of two daughters who excelled while attending Penn Highlands Community College. For Michaela, Penn Highlands was both close to home and affordable, allowing her to focus on and raise her family while getting the education she deserved. Not having to worry about financial burdens was beneficial to her success.
Follow Kat Walker’s incredible journey from a passionate home cook, known for delighting friends and family, to a burgeoning culinary professional. After years of dreaming about a career in food, Kat took the leap and enrolled as a non-traditional student. Now, she is realizing her lifelong dream, mastering new techniques, and turning her passion into a profession.
Cass chose Penn Highlands Community College because it was the perfect fit for her goals. Growing up as a student at Richland High School, she saw Penn Highlands as the best option. The convenience of being close to home, flexible class schedules, and intimate class sizes made it a no-brainer.
Meet Shea Berrier, a student who came to Penn Highlands through the local CareerLink and overcame many obstacles to become a graduate. Penn Highlands changed Shea’s life because it opened doors and allowed him to accomplish many things. He obtained a National Certified Peer Support Specialist certification and a bachelor’s in Behavioral Science with a minor in Social Work. He is now an Intensive Case Manager who works with the Problem Solving Courts of Blair County.
Meet Angel Raehl, a recent graduate whose journey at Penn Highlands Community College led her to discover her career path and passion. As an inaugural cadet class member of the Penn Highlands Police Academy, Angel graduated in September 2023. Following her graduation, Angel was hired by the Ferndale Borough Police Department.
Meet Austin Thomas, a recent graduate whose journey at Penn Highlands led him to discover his career path and passion. As an inaugural cadet class member of the Penn Highlands Police Academy, Thomas graduated in September 2023. Following his graduation, the Conemaugh Township Police Department hired Austin.
Penn Highlands Community College gave Hunter Connor the path forward that he wanted. He was able to earn a degree debt-free while maintaining a full-time job throughout his studies. At Penn Highlands, he built a strong foundation for his education and career path.
Adrianna chose Penn Highlands because it was close to home. The class sizes were very small and she knew she would not just be a number. Penn Highlands was a good fit because everyone was so comforting and the professors treat you as more than just a student.
Dontae Lilly is a successful graduate that earned his associate degree in Business Management and then moved on to complete his bachelor’s degree. After his military career, Dontae and his family moved back to Pennsylvania. Upon his return to the area, he started visiting local colleges and universities to see what they had to offer, and ended up choosing Penn Highlands. Dontae attributes Penn Highlands with helping his transition from military life to his now successful post-military career.
Meet Alex Ashcom, a lifelong resident of Johnstown who went on to become a first-generation college graduate. After high school, Alex planned to enter the military but was convinced by a friend to take some classes.
Meet Brooke James, a first-generation college graduate who jump-started her collegiate career with dual enrollment courses. She continued her studies at Penn Highlands and earned an associate degree, saving thousands of dollars along the way.
Bill started his educational journey at the age of 47. Six years later, he graduated Magna Cum Laude. Supported by his wife, children, and grandchildren, he had the support he needed to work full-time while attending college at night.
Sydney planned to attend a four-year university, but the pandemic changed her world and she chose Penn Highlands. Sydney quickly discovered that Penn Highlands would save her thousands of dollars and keep her closer to family and friends.
After graduating from Conemaugh Valley High School, Leah got the education she needed from Penn Highlands to have a successful career. In order to become a radiologic technologist, Leah had to pass a board-certified exam first.
Casey formed his company (Assett Conventions, LLC) shortly after he earned a Business Management degree from Pennsylvania Highlands in 2011.
Liz never thought of attending a community college before. In fact, she started at a large university where she promptly dropped out. Liz took two years off before trying college again, this time she gave Penn Highlands a try.
After high school, Sadie wasn’t prepared to attend a large institution. Instead, she was the first in her family to attend a community college. Sadie fell in love with the small class sizes and personal one-on-one interaction with professors and staff.
Mike spent many years going down a path that just didn’t work out the way he imagined. After barely making ends meet, he pretty much gave up on the prospect of a better life. Mike later realized he wanted to strive for more. Through this revelation, he decided to pursue his passions through higher education.
Tara Brodish is a proud graduate. After earning her associate’s degree, she moved on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Now, with her education and experiences guiding her, she is inspiring young minds as a local school teacher.
Dan Dabbs is a graduate of the Criminal Justice program. After earning his associate’s degree, he moved on to earn his bachelor’s degree and is pursuing his master’s degree. With his enjoyable experience at Penn Highlands guiding him, he is making the most of his return to school.
After earning his associate’s degree, Grant Speigle moved on to become a state trooper. His experiences in the classroom and on the basketball court helped him become the ambitious person he is today.