The Voice of Vibrancy Vol.2 | Issue 7

The Voice of Vibrancy

Letter From the President

Dear Members and Stakeholders,

There is something special about a Butler County summer

Maybe it's an evening spent around a campfire, a hike through one of our beautiful parks, an afternoon on Lake Arthur, a concert in one of our downtowns, or simply taking the scenic route home with the windows down. Summer has a way of reminding us to slow down, appreciate where we live, and reconnect with the people and places that make this community so extraordinary.

As I travel throughout Butler County each day, I'm continually reminded that our greatest assets aren’t just our businesses or our economic momentum it's the incredible quality of life we enjoy. From our rolling farmland and wooded trails to our thriving main streets and welcoming neighborhoods, Butler County offers something for everyone. We are fortunate to live in a place where natural beauty and economic opportunity exist side by side.

This time of year also provides countless opportunities to support local. Whether you ' re grabbing dinner at a locally owned restaurant, attending a community festival, shopping at a neighborhood boutique, visiting one of our parks, or exploring attractions you ' ve never experienced before, every dollar spent locally strengthens the businesses and organizations that make Butler County such a vibrant place to call home.

The Chamber has had the privilege of celebrating many of those success stories this summer through ribbon cuttings, networking events, educational programs, and community partnerships. Behind every event is another entrepreneur chasing a dream, another nonprofit making a difference, another employer investing in their workforce, and another volunteer giving their time to improve our community Those stories deserve to be celebrated because they represent the spirit of Butler County.

As we move through the remainder of the summer, I encourage you to take advantage of everything our county has to offer. Visit somewhere new. Attend a local event. Invite friends and family to experience Butler County Support a small business you ' ve never visited before. Sometimes the best adventures are right in our own backyard.

Thank you for your continued investment in the Butler County Chamber of Commerce and in the future of our community. Together, we ' r climate—we're creating a place where people want to raise a family, and enjoy life.

Have a wonderful summer, and I'll see you around B

Jordan Grady

President of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce

Important Information

Advertising opportunities coming soon! As part of our E-Newsletter, we are currently gathering essential data to accurately determine our rates.

To feature your good news in our monthly newsletter, please submit it to the Chamber of Commerce by the 15th of each month. Don't forget to include a high-resolution logo!

Our email list reaches nearly 5,000 active subscribers, boasting open and click rates well above the national industry average! Each email blast is packed with everything Chamber, along with submitted content and resources designed to help you expand your network. BC

Featured Small Business

Green Climate Energy Solutions

Helping Butler County Businesses Navigate the Energy Transition

In just a few short years, Green Climate Energy Consulting has established itself as one of Western Pennsylvania's most trusted independent energy advisory firms, combining decades of industry expertise with a community-first philosophy. Founded in 2021 by Butler County native Dave Grupp, the Cranberry Township-based company has experienced remarkable growth by helping commercial and industrial organizations make smarter decisions about one of their largest operating expenses: energy.

Today, Green Climate serves businesses throughout Pennsylvania and across the United States, advising clients on electricity and natural gas procurement, energy efficiency, renewable energy, distributed generation, and comprehensive energy management. The firm's mission is simple yet increasingly important: energy should be affordable, reliable, and sustainable.

A Founder Built on Decades of Industry Leadership

Green Climate was born from founder Dave Grupp's vision that businesses deserve an experienced advocate working solely in their best interests. After a 15-year career in mechanical engineering with Robinson Industries in Zelienople, Dave spent the past two decades in the competitive retail energy industry His engineering and project management background, combined with extensive energy experience, gave him a deep understanding of how organizations can manage energy as an asset rather than simply a cost.

Throughout his career, Grupp has advised Fortune 500 companies, manufacturers, municipalities, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and small businesses on navigating complex energy markets. His expertise spans energy procurement, renewable and distributed energy development, and strategic consulting.

Green Climate Energy Consulting founder Dave Grupp

When he launched Green Climate in 2021, Grupp envisioned more than an energy brokerage. He wanted to build a consulting practice that educates customers, provides objective guidance, and develops customized solutions aligned with each organization's goals rather than offering one-size-fits-all products.

That client-focused philosophy has fueled Green Climate's rapid expansion and earned the company a reputation for transparency, responsiveness, and trusted expertise

Building Momentum with Stephanie Grenier

A major milestone came in early 2025 with the addition of Stephanie Grenier as Vice President of Operations. Bringing nearly three decades of experience in sales, marketing, operations, business development, and customer relationship management, Grenier has strengthened Green Climate's ability to serve a growing customer base while maintaining its personalized approach

Together, Grupp and Grenier bring more than five decades of combined energy experience, helping clients confidently navigate evolving energy markets while identifying opportunities to reduce costs and improve operational resilience.

Green Climate has also welcomed energy analyst Ryan Miller and continues supporting internships for local college students interested in energy, business, and finance.

Comprehensive Energy Solutions

While many firms focus only on electricity or natural gas supply, Green Climate takes a broader strategic approach. The company provides consulting services ranging from complex supply procurement to distributed generation solutions across multiple industries. Rather than simply securing contracts, Green Climate partners with clients

Dave Grupp (left) and Green Energy’s VP of Operations, Stephanie Grenier (right)

Featured Small Business

throughout the life of their energy strategy by monitoring markets, evaluating procurement timing, and adapting to changing conditions. This consultative approach helps organizations balance financial, operational, and environmental objectives while building long-term resilience.

Growing with Butler County

Although Green Climate serves customers across Western Pennsylvania and nationally, Butler County remains central to the company ' s identity.

Its continued investment in offices in historic downtown Zelienople and Cranberry Township reflects a commitment to growing alongside the local business community. The company actively participates in the Butler County Chamber of Commerce, the Southern Butler County Business Association, and regional economic development initiatives.

As the Butler County Chamber's exclusive affiliate energy partner, Green Climate has helped businesses save thousands of dollars in utility costs while generating proceeds that support local nonprofit and charitable organizations. The partnership demonstrates that smart business decisions and community impact can go hand in hand.

Giving Back Beyond Business

For Green Climate, success is measured by more than client growth. Community involvement is woven into the company ' s culture. Whether partnering with organizations like the Cranberry Foundation or supporting the Butler County Humane

Society, Green Climate believes businesses have a responsibility to strengthen the communities where they operate. Dave has also served on the board of Junior Achievement of Western PA for more than a decade, helping raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to support workforce readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship programs.

The company also participates in fundraising events and supports numerous community initiatives throughout Butler County and Western Pennsylvania.

Dave Grupp (Green Climate), Jordan Grady (Butler Chamber), Carrie Fox (YMCA), Chip Abramovic (Birddog Strategies)

Looking Ahead

As the energy industry evolves through AI data center growth, electrification, grid modernization, and emerging technologies including battery storage and small modular nuclear, Green Climate Energy Consulting is well positioned for continued growth.

The company continues expanding its expertise while remaining grounded in the principles that inspired its founding: honest advice, exceptional customer service, technical expertise, and meaningful community engagement.

Under the leadership of Dave Grupp and Stephanie Grenier, Green Climate has grown from a startup founded in 2021 into a respected regional consulting firm helping organizations navigate increasingly complex energy decisions with confidence.

For Butler County, Green Climate represents more than a successful business story. It demonstrates how local entrepreneurship, industry expertise, and a commitment to giving back can create lasting value for customers and the communities they serve.

Dave Grupp (left) and Jordan Grady (right) "Gold Paw" sponsors of the Butler County Humane Society Fur Ball

Featured Nonprofit Community Care Connections

Empowering People, Strengthening Communities

Since 1972, Community Care Connections (CCC) has been helping children and adults with disabilities live safely and independently in their homes, schools, neighborhoods, and communities. More than a service provider, CCC creates opportunities, fosters independence, and improves quality of life for individuals with disabilities and the families who support them. As a community-based nonprofit committed to inclusion, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live, learn, work, and participate fully in community life.

CCC provides supports tailored to individual needs throughout every stage of life. For our youngest participants, Early Intervention services help children from birth to age three reach critical developmental milestones. Qualified and licensed therapists work directly with children and their families in their homes, childcare centers, and community settings, helping build the foundation for future success.

One of CCC's most beloved programs is Camp Apple, an inclusive, friendship-building experience for children with and without disabilities. Thanks to support from Butler County Human Services and the United Way of Southwest Pennsylvania, Camp Apple is offered free of charge to participating families. Preschoolers attend Camp Appleseeds, school-aged children enjoy Camp Apple, and older youth participate in Teen Camp Apple. The program is designed so every camper can participate fully, build confidence, and develop meaningful friendships while enjoying a fun and welcoming environment.

For adults, CCC offers a wide range of services, including residential supports, independent living services, community and center-based activities, employment supports, homemaking services, and more. These programs promote dignity, choice, and meaningful engagement. Every day, our dedicated team works alongside the people we serve to build skills, foster relationships, obtain employment, access community resources, and achieve personal goals. Because success looks different for every individual, our personcentered approach honors each person ' s strengths, preferences, and aspirations.

Beyond direct services, CCC is committed to creating a more inclusive community. We partner with local businesses, schools, and community organizations to expand opportunities, increase awareness, and reduce barriers for people with disabilities. These collaborations strengthen our communities while helping individuals contribute their talents, abilities, and perspectives.

We are proud to be both a trusted service provider and an active community partner. Our work enhances the lives of the individuals and families we support while contributing to the social and economic vitality of the region. We are grateful for the support of our community, including local businesses and Chamber members who share our vision of a community where everyone is valued and included.

As we look to the future, CCC remains committed to innovation, excellence, and expanding opportunities for those we serve. We invite community members, businesses, and civic leaders to learn more about our work and join us in advancing inclusion, independence, and o t it f ll Vi it C it C C nnect.org to learn more.

Featured Affiliate

More Than a Business Association: Building Community in Slippery Rock

As a proud affiliate of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce, Slippery Rock Business Association (SRBA) exists to strengthen the Slippery Rock community by connecting businesses, supporting local organizations, and creating opportunities that benefit both our members and the community we call home. Founded in 2004, SRBA has grown into a diverse network of businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational partners, and community leaders who all share a common goal: helping Slippery Rock thrive. Our members understand that when local businesses succeed, the entire community benefits.

Throughout the year, SRBA brings people together through networking events, educational programs, and community initiatives designed to encourage collaboration and build meaningful relationships. Whether it's welcoming a new business to town, connecting entrepreneurs with valuable resources, or providing a forum for local leaders to discuss community priorities, SRBA serves as a bridge between business and community.

Community service is equally important to our mission. Through initiatives like our annual Thanks for Giving Luncheon benefiting Feed My Sheep, volunteer opportunities, and support of organizations such as Slippery Rock in Bloom, the Slippery Rock Community Library, the Salvation Army, and other local nonprofits, our members are committed to giving back in meaningful ways. Another important part of SRBA's work is fostering collaboration between the business community, local government, Slippery Rock University, and other community partners. By creating opportunities for open communication and shared problem-solving, we help ensure that Slippery Rock continues to grow while maintaining the welcoming, small-town atmosphere that makes it such a special place to live, work, and visit.

None of this would be possible without our dedicated members, volunteers, and Board of Directors, whose passion and commitment continue to move our mission forward. Every meeting attended, event sponsored, volunteer hour given, and new member welcomed strengthens not only our association but the entire Slippery Rock community. Whether you ' re an established business owner, a new entrepreneur, a nonprofit organization, or someone simply looking to become more involved in the community, we invite you to discover what SRBA is all about. Together, we ' re building more than business connections, we ' re building a stronger, more vibrant Slippery Rock.

T l b bership, upcoming events, or ways to get involved, visit ollow the Slippery ociation/.

Cool People Doing Cool Things

A Lifetime of Service: Karen Dunn, Supporting Veterans and the Butler Community

Giving back has always been a guiding principle in my life. My journey in volunteering began at a young age, starting with visits to nursing home residents, and has remained a constant thread through adulthood. Growing up in a family of Veterans my father, brother, uncles, and more instilled in me a deep respect and admiration for those who have served. When I moved to Butler County about 17 years ago, I became even more focused on supporting Veterans through meaningful volunteer opportunities. Since then, being an advocate for Veterans has truly become my passion.

In 2018, I founded the Butler, PA chapter of Guitars for Vets, an incredible 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing Veterans with the healing power of music. Through Guitars for Vets, local Veterans receive weekly guitar lessons from volunteer instructors, and after completing 10 lessons, each graduate receives a brand-new guitar and accessories to continue their musical and healing journey. I am proud to share that our Butler chapter has graduated 112 Veterans so far. Nationwide, as of June 2026, Guitars for Vets has 147 chapters across 40 states and has graduated over 12,000 Veterans. Being part of this organization one that supports Veterans every single day—is an honor I cherish.

I have also had the privilege of serving for several years on the board of Robin’s Home, a Butler-based nonprofit providing transitional housing for women Veterans and their children. My time with Robin’s Home allowed me to contribute in many different ways, supporting their mission to provide a safe haven where women Veterans can rebuild their lives. That experience remains incredibly meaningful to me.

As an advisor to the all-Veteran board of Butler County Veterans In Need (BCVIN), I have witnessed firsthand the difference compassionate support makes. BCVIN offers furniture donations and emergency financial assistance to local Veterans, all while fostering community through fundraising and outreach events. I especially enjoy helping with these events and capturing their impact through photography.

For the last few years, I have volunteered with the American Legion’s oratorical competition, serving as a timekeeper and tabulator for the judges. Watching students deliver impressive speeches about the Constitution has been inspiring, and it is rewarding to play a part in such a great opportunity for high school students.

Wreaths Across America is another nonprofit close to my heart. On several occasions, I have volunteered to photograph local wreath-laying ceremonies in Butler, capturing the touching moments where generations of volunteers honor those who have served. It really touches my heart to see a wreath on my father’s grave. One of the highlights of my volunteering has been with Honor Flight Pittsburgh. Over the past five years, I’ve joined 10 missions to Washington, D.C., serving as a nurse, guardian, photographer, and most recently, a bus leader. These trips are emotional and transformative for both Veterans and volunteers. Each journey is a day filled with gratitude, camaraderie, and profound respect it is a privilege I look forward to each time. I encourage everyone to get involved with Honor Flight Pittsburgh if you can; It is a truly unforgettable way to give back to Veterans.

While much of my service is dedicated to Veterans, I also love supporting the wider community. For more than a decade, I’ve served on the board of Leadership Butler County (will they ever let me leave. LOL!). As a proud graduate of the Leadership Butler County Class of 2013 widely known as the best class, if you ask Stan Kosciuszko I found the experience invaluable as I navigated my new hometown and established my roots. I remain on the board because I truly believe in the program ’ s ability to inspire leadership and give back, and I enjoy sharing my positive experience with each new class.

I also lend a hand to Kids Day America, a wonderful annual community event discovered through Care Chiropracti Supporting an event that benefits loc children and nonprofits is something I cann resist each year Kids Day America brings jo to our area and meaningful support organizations in need. And this year was ext special because I received a plaque for th Volunteer of the Year!

If you ’ re looking for ways to give back, yo don’t have to look far—opportunities are rig here in your own backyard. Volunteering fi my life with happiness and purpose. I believ in always being kind, telling the truth, an most of all, in giving the gift of time th most generous gift one can offer.

Featured Organization

Slippery Rock University has become a first-choice institution for a growing number of students

At a time when many colleges and universities across the nation are confronting enrollment declines and demographic headwinds, Slippery Rock University (SRU) continues to demonstrate that investing in student success produces measurable results.

Students and families are increasingly choosing SRU for its combination of affordability, academic quality and career outcomes. The University is ranked among the top public universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report, which also recognizes SRU as a Best Value School. The Wall Street Journal also ranked SRU higher than schools like Pitt and Penn State on its 2026 list of America’s Best Colleges.

That reputation is translating into growth. SRU enrolled 8,625 students in Fall 2025, a 2.75% increase over the previous year and the University's largest enrollment since 2020. Undergraduate enrollment increased 3.4%, marking SRU's largest single-year undergraduate enrollment gain in 20 years, while the incoming class of 1,549 first-year students was the University's largest since 2019.

"There is no secret to SRU's success, " President Karen Riley told members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives' Appropriations Committee during budget hearings in March. "We have to be nimble, we have to be quick, and we have to make sure that we are offering the programs necessary for a contemporary array for workforce development."

That approach has led SRU to rapidly expand programs aligned with employer demand. The University recently added construction management, completed its engineering offerings with electrical engineering, and launched new nursing pathways, including a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Applications to those three new programs alone totaled nearly 400, underscoring strong demand for career-focused academic offerings.

SRU's commitment to student success extends bey recruitment. The University recorded an 86.4% f year retention rate, the highest in its history and best among Pennsylvania's State System univers over the past decade. SRU also achieved a 58.3% fo year graduation rate, the highest in the State System the last 20 years. Among State System universitie western Pennsylvania, SRU graduates also have highest three-year and 10-year employment rate Pennsylvania and the highest average salaries am bachelor's degree recipients.

"We are committed to funding our students, to making sure that they have the highest quality education at the lowest possible cost," Riley said. Along with state and federal support, SRU has significantly expanded philanthropic giving, raising approximately $27 million over the past two and a half years to increase scholarships and remove financial barriers for students.

The University is also strengthening partnerships that improve both access and career preparation. Collaborations with employers provide internships, scholarships and handson learning opportunities, while partnerships with community colleges ensure that 99% of transferable credits apply directly toward an SRU degree. New initiatives are also helping transfer students become part of campus life before they enroll, creating stronger connections inside and outside the classroom

For more than 135 years, Slippery Rock University has prepared students for meaningful careers and engaged lives. By responding quickly to workforce needs, investing in student success and maintaining an unwavering commitment to affordability and opportunity, SRU continues to prove why it has become a first-choice destination for students across Pennsylvania and beyond.

Member News

SRU Safety Students Learn from Alumni During Field Trip

By Justin Zackal, Associate Director of University Marketing and Communication

on July 1, 2026

One of the many benefits of the safety management program at Slippery Rock University is opportunities for students to visit workplaces where alumni are applying what they are learning in the classroom.

Field trips like the one that SRU safety management students took earlier this year to the Vistra Nuclear Power Plant in Shippingport are a valuable extension of classroom learning, connecting theory to real-world practice.

Safety management alumna Jennie Stiefel, ’23, who is Vistra’s offsite emergency preparedness specialist, led a tour of the facility in Beaver County for students and faculty from SRU’s Haverlack College of Business.

“It’s very important to have that education and what Slippery Rock ends up teaching us prepares us for success in any industry,” Stiefel said.

“After doing this tour I was able to see the many different levels of management,” said Gallo, a junior safety management major from Canfield, Ohio (Columbiana HS).

“More than that, I was able to see how a positive attitude around the safety culture is able to further help make this place safe for all the workers. The Haverlack College of Business has prepared me, just from going to classes and labs will translate to the things I saw in the plant.”

“Field trips are a great way to apply classroom learning,” said Dave Renz, assistant professor of safety management. “Students get to see the equipment firsthand, they get to see operations and they have an opportunity to talk to professionals in the field and it’s a great way to learn about, in this particular case, nuclear energy. ”

More information about safety management at SRU is available at SRU.edu/Programs/Undergrad-Safety-Management.

Member News

Boozel Dining Hall Earns Certified Green

By SRU Office of University Marketing and Communication

Slippery Rock University’s Boozel Dining Hall has earned Certified Green Restaurant® certification from the Green Restaurant Association, recognizing the environmental steps the dining hall has implemented to become more sustainable.

Boozel Dining Hall has achieved more than 165 GreenPoints™ by implementing 39 environmental steps across the Green Restaurant Association’s rigorous certification standards. A key part of that effort is its comprehensive recycling program, which includes plastics, glass, aluminum, cardboard and paper. With the average restaurant producing 100,000 pounds of garbage each year, Boozel Dining Hall is diverting up to 50% of its waste from landfills, or approximately 50,000 pounds annually.

The Green Restaurant Association is a national nonprofit organization helping restaurants become more environmentally sustainable since 1990 through its transparent, science-based certification standards. Restaurants earn GreenPoints™ across seven environmental categories: Energy, Water, Waste, Reusables & Disposables, Chemicals & Pollution, Food, and Building & Furnishing. Each location must meet a minimum number of GreenPoints™ to achieve certification, providing a transparent measure of environmental accomplishments and a pathway to continued ptogress.

article was originally published at

In addition to its recycling efforts, Boozel Dining Hall has taken several steps to reduce waste and conserve resources. The dining hall provides a bottle filling station and does not offer bottled water. It also makes regular food bank donations, offers bulk condiments and uses reusable plates, cutlery, glasses, mugs and bowls, with no disposable options available. Boozel Dining Hall also reduces energy use through occupancy sensors in its office and storage closets and strip curtains on one of its walk-in coolers, which save enough energy to power a residential home for an entire year. With more than 50% of its main dishes being vegetarian or vegan, Boozel Dining Hall also offers sustainable food options for diners.

“I applaud Slippery Rock University on their dedication to reducing their environmental impact,” said Michael Oshman, CEO and founder of the Green Restaurant Association. “Boozel Dining Hall has set an example in Slippery Rock for restaurants across Pennsylvania and the nation to follow. By having a Certified Green Restaurant® on campus, this university is proving it’s possible for any college or university to change their environmental footprint right now. ”

“Earning Certified Green Restaurant® status reflects Slippery Rock University’s commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship of resources while delivering an exceptional dining experience for our students,” said Chris Cole, SRU’s assistant vice president for auxiliary operations and student services. “From reducing waste and conserving energy to expanding sustainable food options, the efforts at Boozel Dining Hall demonstrate how environmental responsibility and high-quality campus dining can go hand in hand. This recognition highlights the dedication of our University and our food vendor, Aramark, to creating a more sustainable future for our campus community.”

More information about Dining Services at SRU is available at SRU.edu/DiningServices. More information about the Green Restaurant Association is available at www.DineGreen.com.

BC

Member News

Slippery Rock University Alumnus Brady Crytzer Explores ‘The National Road’ in Eighth Book

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article was originally published at News.SRU.edu on June 25, 2026

Slippery Rock University alumnus Brady Crytzer, ’08, ’10M, is making headlines for his eighth professional publication, “The National Road: George Washington and America’s First Highway West.” Reflecting on the local impact of the historic route that goes through southwestern Pennsylvania, Crytzer shared how the project bridges the grand scale of American history with the

everyday lives of U.S. citizens.

“It’s very relevant for us, and most importantly for the people that read the book,” Crytzer said. “It gets them to look at where they live, a place they know really well, in a different way. ”

Crytzer, who earned his bachelor’s degree in education and master’s degree in history at SRU, noted that the book itself tells the story of America’s westward expansion in the period after the Revolutionary War. “The National Road” is the first narrative history of the federal project which connected the United States across the Alleghenies and into the western frontier.

“The book is all about the perspectives of the people that made it possible,” Crytzer said.

The national road is widely considered to be America’s first interstate highway, carrying years of history within its construction. For Crytzer, looking back at this massive undertaking offered a much-needed dose of modern inspiration.

“I think that there’s something to be said for doing something, making something, building something,” Crytzer said. “It’s important to believe that, as a country, we can achieve great things still. I think a lot of people are feeling down on that these days, like things can’t get better and it’s only worse from here. I don’t think that’s a very healthy way to look at things.”

With that perspective in mind, readers seem to crave that sense of inspiration. With reviews published in The Wall Street Journal and earned the “Editor’s Pick: Best History” by Amazon.com, , the overwhelmingly positive reception of “The National Road” has been fulfilling for Crytzer to see.

“It’s really gratifying,” Cryzter said. “When you write, it becomes a very lonely process. You have to lock yourself away in your writing and research, and that’s not a regular thing for people who are non-historians to do.”

For Crytzer, seeing the book make an impact brought a profound sense of relief and connection after months of research.

“As writers, we ’ re very much the outliers in society,” Crytzer noted, “ so just being able to see people reading and enjoying the book is such a great thing for me. ”

As Crytzer reflected on his process and reception, SRU’s impact on his professional career became readily apparent. He recalled arriving on campus with plenty of raw ambition, but very little direction.

“When I came to Slippery Rock, I knew I loved to write, research and investigate, but I didn’t really have a compass, ” Crytzer said. “I didn’t even like history all that much either because I didn’t grow up with it. But then I had a professor named David Dixon.”

BC

Dixon, ’76, ’83M, was a history professor at SRU from 1999 until he passed away in 2008.

“He was a professor like I had never had before,” Crytzer said. “His lectures were almost cinematic, and he carried such passion in what he did. Nothing was ever rehearsed; it all came from his heart. He was a purist, and he was also like my mentor. Sometimes I go back and read my old notes from his class. They still resonate with me. ”

This mentorship, as well as the educational support from SRU, ultimately acted as the catalyst for Crytzer’s career moving forward. Looking back, he credits the University as a major facet of his current success.

He is one of the leading experts in the frontier history of North America, he is the associate editor of the Journal of the American Revolution, and he regularly appears on Fox News, NBC Peacock, C-Span, and Sirius XM. In 2026, Crytzer was named a Fellow at the Royal Society of Arts in London. His work has been featured in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Sirius XM and USA Today. He also teaches history at Robert Morris University.“SRU is central to my academic journey, I wouldn’t be here without it,” Crytzer said.

More information about “The National Road” and its author can be found on Crytzer’s website, BradyCrytzer.com.

Member News

41 Butler County Residents Latest to Earn Diploma Through BC3

There was a time when Karina McKibbin felt like she had fallen behind everyone else. After leaving high school, she struggled to find work, questioned her place in the community and wondered if the future she imagined for herself had slipped away.

"I felt useless. I couldn't get many jobs. I didn't feel like I was part of society," McKibbin said. "I beat myself up a lot because I felt like I was behind all my peers. I felt horrible all the time."

On July 15, 2026, she stood before fellow graduates at Butler County Community College (BC3) as one of the student speakers for this year ' s Adult Literacy commencement ceremony: proof that one decision, one opportunity, and one community willing to help can change the course of a life.

McKibbin is one of 41 Butler County adults who earned a Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma through BC3's Adult Literacy program this year. The free program, celebrating its 40th anniversary, has helped thousands of adults open doors to new careers, higher education and greater confidence.

For many graduates, earning a diploma is about much more than a credential. "This milestone represents not only academic succ Director of BC3's Adult Literacy program, employment, higher education and personal gro we serve. "

Those opportunities are significant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, adults with a high school diploma earn substantially more over their lifetime than those without one. But graduates say the biggest transformation often happens long before the first paycheck.

Samantha Hartle, Grant Director, speaks at 2026 convocation.

"I am so proud," McKibbin said. "I see a new me every day. I can't believe that I actually did get my diploma. I feel so fantastic about being able to get out of my own way and build a future for myself."

Her story isn't the only one of success. Robin Hysong left high school after years of struggling to learn in both traditional classrooms and online settings. "I had a very negative attitude about school," she said, "and it did not help me. "

After learning about BC3's Adult Literacy program through a relative, Hysong found something she hadn't experienced before: patient encouragement.

"They gave me a lot of encouragement," she said. "They would make their rounds and help me. They'd sit down with me and be patient with me as I needed help."

McKibbin found that same support. "[Instructor] Caris Doss was fantastic," she said. "She was positive. She did not make you feel bad if you did not understand things. She was very slow and understanding and explained things over and over if you needed it."

That environment is intentional. BC3's Adult Literacy instructors, tutors and volunteers work with students in mathematics, reading, writing,

McKibbin found that same support. "[Instructor] Caris Doss was fantastic," she said. "She was positive. She did not make you feel bad if you did not understand things. She was very slow and understanding and explained things over and over if you needed it."

Karina McKibben, Class of 2026

Robin Hysong, Class of 2026

That environment is intentional. BC3's Adult Literacy instructors, tutors and volunteers work with students in mathematics, reading, writing, science and social studies while also helping them overcome the personal barriers that often accompany returning to school.

"We try our best to address barriers," instructor Caris Doss said. Sometimes those barriers are practical. The program connects students with employment resources, addresses food insecurity, and introduces eligible students to BC3's Keystone Education Yields Success program, which provides academic support and assistance with expenses such as child care, transportation and textbooks.”

"We try our best to address barriers," instructor Caris Doss said. Sometimes those barriers are practical. The program connects students with employment resources, addresses food insecurity, and introduces eligible students to BC3's Keystone Education Yields Success program, which provides academic support and assistance with expenses such as child care, transportation and textbooks.”

Other barriers are harder to see. "A lot of students come in and feel like they have some kind of label as a dropout," Doss said. "The biggest things we want them to feel when they leave us is encouraged and confident about themselves and their education."

That confidence can be life changing. "I am very happy," Hysong said after passing her final exam. "I'm done. That's finally a chapter of my life that I don't have to worry about anymore. I couldn't have done it without their support."

Neither, McKibbin believes, could she. "I had no motivation to better myself or to do it myself," she said. "I was afraid and ashamed that I did not know anything."

Caris Doss, Adult Literacy Instructor

This year ' s graduates include students from throughout Butler County, including eight individuals who earned their diplomas while incarcerated at the Butler County Prison through classes taught by BC3. Others attended classes on BC3's main campus, at Pennsylvania CareerLink, or online, demonstrating that education can meet students wherever they are. Their accomplishments are also the result of a community that believes in second chances.

Organizations such as the Rotary Club of Butler PM have invested nearly $72,000 in the Adult Literacy program through its Luncheon for Literacy fundraisers, while state support helps fund both Adult Literacy and the Keystone Education Yields Success program. Those investments continue long after graduation. The BC3 Education Foundation will award eight scholarships next year to students whose qualifications include earning a Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma. A ninth scholarship the Jennifer R. Pullar Attorney at Law Scholarship, established by BC3 trustee Jennifer R. Pullar gives preference to a student who earned that diploma through BC3's Adult Literacy program.

For 41 graduates, it marks the end of one story—but more importantly, the beginning of another.

BC3 Diploma Recipients at Graduation

Top 7 Places Where People Are Moving To In Pennsylvania In 2026

By Sean Levinson

this article was originally published at WorldAtlas.com on June 17, 2026

Trade a Manhattan rent check for an apartment in the Lehigh Valley and the math changes in a hurry. Some version of that swap is what keeps turning up in Pennsylvania's recent move-in numbers. People are leaving the expensive places, New York, Philadelphia, downtown Pittsburgh, for mid-size cities and suburbs where a paycheck stretches further, the downtown has been fixed up instead of boarded up, and the big city is still a short drive away when they want it Lehigh, Cumberland, and Butler counties are catching a lot of that traffic Young professionals, new families, and retirees all seem to be after the same deal: a small-town feel without giving up city options. Here are seven places where they are landing.

1.Allentown

Allentown is Pennsylvania's third-largest it pulls off a neat trick: it sits in the he Lehigh Valley yet lands about 90 minu both Manhattan and Philadelphia. That l a big part of why its population has been since 2022 and now sits around 126, growth has spilled into the rest of Lehig which keeps drawing transplant neighboring Northampton County and f York, where the cost of living dwarfs an the Lehigh Valley

Allentown has earned some of that interest. Over the past decade, its Neighborhood Improvement Zone has funneled more than $1 billion into downtown, putting up office towers, apartments, and a science center where empty storefronts used to be, plus a federal grant to improve transit into Center City The entertainment district books national acts all year, and the Great Allentown Fair still pulls crowds north of 200,000 every summer for fair food, livestock judging, and concerts.

2. Bethlehem

Bethlehem is the Lehigh Valley's other anchor, and it has grown steadily, adding a few thousand residents since 2020 to push past 79,000. The city straddles Lehigh and Northampton counties, though most of it sits in Northampton, which has been pulling in newcomers from neighboring Lehigh County and from across the river in Warren County, New Jersey

What makes Bethlehem stick, especially for younger arrivals, is the mix: a genuinely good arts scene, walkable streets, and Lehigh University anchoring a roster of a dozen or so colleges. All those students explain the density of coffee shops, breweries, and restaurants. Work is close, too. Amazon and Chewy run facilities nearby, a small tech sector is taking root, and local factories still turn out Mack trucks a few towns over and the marshmallow Peeps that have been made right in Bethlehem for decades

3. Lancaster

Lancaster runs on a simple pitch: big-city amenities, small-city prices, and a calmer pace. That combination has drawn a steady stream of newcomers and nudged the population to around 58,000 A lot of them came from more built-up counties across the Susquehanna, places like York, Chester, and Berks, looking for a quieter life without cutting ties to the city. They do not have to cut them: the Lancaster Amtrak station runs direct trains to Philadelphia and New York City.

Lancaster is best known for the Amish farmland that wraps around it, all that open scenery plus a thick cluster of parks and preserves. The economy is sturdy, anchored by big employers like Lancaster General Health and Armstrong World Industries, which helps keep unemployment famously low. Lately the city has built a reputation for its theaters, galleries, and music venues, and First Friday, held on the first Friday of every month, turns the whole downtown into a gallery walk

4. Camp Hill

Camp Hill is tiny, about 8,200 people, and it routinely lands near the top of best-placesto-live lists for Cumberland County, mostly on the strength of its schools and its tightknit, family-first feel As Cumberland County draws people out of neighboring Dauphin and York counties, plenty are after exactly that: somewhere calmer and safer that is still only about fifteen minutes from the state capital, Harrisburg.

It helps that Camp Hill sits near the meeting point of Interstates 81 and 83, so the big employers and the Capital City Mall are an easy hop Weekends tend to happen at Siebert Park, which has trails, a pool, and lighted courts, or over at Negley Willow. The town leans hard into the young-family thing: streets full of four-way stops, and schools close enough that plenty of kids just walk.

BC

6. Phoenixville

Phoenixville is a comeback story. The old steel-and-factory town has reinvented itself as the dining-and-arts hub of Chester County, adding a couple thousand residents since 2020 to climb past 20,000. Most of the newcomers came from Montgomery, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties, which reads like a slow drift away from the Philadelphia metro.

The heart of it is Bridge Street, lined with antique shops, boutiques, breweries, and farmto-table spots. Phoenixville also sits on the Schuylkill River, a short drive from Valley Forge National Historical Park, so the trails, biking, and kayaking are right there. And King of Prussia, one of the region's biggest job centers, is only 15 to 25 minutes off, which is a large part of the draw for commuters

7. CRANBERRYTOWNSH

Cranberry Township has one of the most coveted Pittsburgh orbit. As people County, plenty are moving County, and Cranberry's grown to around 35,000. T Seneca Valley School Dis pick for the top of Pennsylv

Cranberry is also a serious own right, home to m businesses, including the of Westinghouse Electric C it is only about half an hour

Pittsburgh and sits right where Interstate 79 meets the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The other local point of pride is the parks: a carefully planned system that includes Graham Park, Cranberry Community Park, North Boundary Park, and the Cranberry Highlands Golf Course.

MECHANICSBURG

Mechanicsburg keeps showing up on lists of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing suburbs and best places to retire, and the numbers support the growth: the population rose about 8% since 2020 to push past 10,000, even as the town added housing developments and shopping centers without shedding its small-town feel.

Families come for the well-reg Cumberland Valley School District Comm like the easy reach to job hubs in Harri and Hershey by way of Interstates 81 an and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Day-t errands are simple, with groceries, pharm restaurants, and doctors' offices spread sen around town And there is a real event cale including Earth Day Fest, Community Da Pennsylvania Tea Festival, and the big Jubilee Day, billed as the largest and lon running one-day street fair on the East C drawing up to 70,000 people every June 1923

What This Means for Pennsylvania's Future

Add it up and the direction is hard to miss. The momentum in Pennsylvania is draining out of the big urban cores and pooling in the quieter suburbs, the Lehigh Valley, Cumberland County, Chester County, and a few pockets of Butler County That is great if you already own a house in one of them, and a little ominous if you are about to shop for one, because this kind of demand drags housing prices, school enrollment, and rush-hour traffic up right along with it. The real question now is which of these towns can keep growing without sanding off the small-town character that made people want in. Pennsylvanians have clearly figured out where the good suburbs are. Give it a little time, and the rest of the country will catch on too.

-

Member News

The Butler Family Medicine Residency Program Celebrates New

Location With an Open House, Ribbon-Cutting

Independence Health System’s Butler Family Medicine Residency (BFMR) program marked the opening of its new permanent location at 480 E. Jefferson St. with a ribbon-cutting and open house.

The clinic, which welcomed its inaugural class in July 2025 will welcome its second class on July 1 bringing the progra training.

“This beautiful new space represents more than updated facilities it reflects our long-term commitment to training future physicians and delivering high-quality care to patients in Butler,” said Dr. Joseph Dougherty, program director. “It’s a modern environment where residents can develop the skills needed to provide compassionate, full-spectrum care. ”

The clinic includes 21 exam rooms organized into four clinical pods, each featuring decor inspired by Butler’s local history. The space also includes two osteopathic manipulative treatment rooms, a procedure room, a precepting office, a lactation room, laboratory space, and medication and vaccination storage. Additional features include an updated kitchen, eight faculty offices, and administrative space. Renovations included new flooring, furniture, lighting, electrical upgrades, fresh paint, and replacement ceiling tiles.

“The Butler Family Medicine Residency program represents a long-term investment in the health of our community,” said Dr. Michael Fiorina, chief medical officer of Independence Health System. “By training physicians here in Butler, we are building a pipeline of providers who are developing a strong understanding of the unique needs of our patients and are well prepared to deliver high-quality, expert care in the years ahead.”

Residents train alongside experienced physicians across a broad range of specialties, gaining exposure to both inpatient and outpatient care. Rotations include ambulatory family medicine, hospitalist medicine, obstetrics, women ’ s health, pediatrics, cardiology, and intensive care, among others. The program also connects residents with community-based initiatives to support a well-rounded training experience.

Residents see patients throughout the week in the family medicine clinical setting, including evening hours, by appointment. Services include preventive care, treatment of common illnesses, care for minor injuries, and management of chronic conditions.

Beginning this fall, the clinic plans to extend evening hours to additional weekdays and introduce specialty clinics focused on sports medicine, musculoskeletal care, dermatology, and hypertension.

To learn more about the residency program or to schedule an appointment, visit Independence.health or call 833-604-0435.

Member News

Investing in Butler County's Future, One Student at a Time

Communities don't build strong local economies by chance. They do it by investing in people students willing to work hard, educators committed to opening doors, and organizations that recognize talent before careers begin.

This summer, three Butler County Community College (BC3) students took another step toward becoming the next generation of financial professionals when they each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Pennsylvania CPA Foundation. For Jenna Frankenstein of Zelienople, Denver Ott of Sarver, and Peter Zulick of Renfrew, the award recognizes the commitment and academic success preparing them for careers that will strengthen businesses and communities throughout western Pennsylvania.

Presented in partnership with the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs, the scholarships recognize students pursuing accounting careers who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. Over the past three years, 12 BC3 students and recent graduates have earned the awards, reflecting both student achievement and the strength of the college's business programs.

Different Paths, Shared Goals

Although each student's path to BC3 is unique, they share a common goal: building meaningful careers while creating opportunities for themselves and their communities. After graduating from Seneca Valley High School in 2020, Jenna Frankenstein spent several years balancing full-time work as a retail supervisor and helping her husband through the immigration process before deciding to pursue her education.

"I decided it was finally time to pursue my educational goals," she said "BC3 had always been on my mind because of its affordability and accessibility." Enrolled in BC3's online accounting program, Frankenstein said the college's flexibility, affordable tuition, and strong reputation made it possible to pursue a Leadership Begins Early

For Denver Ott, accounting represents leadership as much as numbers. A 2025 Knoch High School graduate, Eagle Scout, and president of the Premier Livestock Club in Herman, Ott has also spent five years working at a Butler County healthcare provider.

"I strive to be a leader in whatever environment I'm in," Ott said. "Because accounting is such an integral part of business, I thought it would be a good pathway to get into that leadership that I crave. "

ACareerwith Purpose

Peter Zulick discovered his interest in accounting during high school and sees it as a path to a stable, rewarding career. While attending BC3, he has balanced full-time coursework with parttime employment.

A visit to the Pittsburgh offices of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) gave Zulick firsthand exposure to the profession.

"That was really cool," he said. "You hear stories about it and you learn about it in class, but that was real life."

Experiences like these help students connect classroom learning with future careers.

BuildingTalent for Local Business

Demand for accounting professionals continues to grow, making BC3's accredited business and accounting programs increasingly valuable for regional employers. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty with industry experience, and opportunities to connect directly with business leaders.

Whether introducing scholarship opportunities, organizing employer visits, or mentoring future CPAs, BC3 faculty help students prepare for careers beyond graduation.

Affordable Education with Lasting Impact

BC3's combination of affordable tuition, financial aid, and scholarships continues to reduce financial barriers. The college reports that 82% of its Class of 2026 graduated debt-free, allowing students to transfer or enter the workforce without significant student loan debt.

Frankenstein, Ott, and Zulick all expect to graduate debt-free next spring before transferring to pursue bachelor's degrees in accounting or business administration with an accounting concentration.

ACommunity Investment

Scholarships like those awarded by the Pennsylvania CPA Foundation represent more than financial assistance. They demonstrate what can happen when educational institutions, professional organizations, and communities work together to develop local talent. Today's scholarship recipients are tomorrow's accountants and community leaders an investment in Butler County's future that will pay dividends for years to come.

Overcash Discovers Culture and Community in Ireland

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News.SRU.edu on June 29, 2026

Some lessons can only be learned by stepping beyond the classroom and into the world. For Slippery Rock University student Shaina Overcash, a sophomore biology major from Greencastle (Greencastle-Antrim HS), as well as 18 other SRU students, were able to experience this firsthand as they embarked on a faculty-led study abroad program to Ireland, May 11-19, discovering new cultures, lifelong friendships and a global perspective.

“This was my first time leaving the country, so this was a very new thing for me, ” Overcash said.

Stepping onto foreign soil for the first time can be daunting, but study abroad programs at SRU are designed to ease that transition. The University offers students the chance to explore the world in a safe, structured environment, fully supported by dedicated SRU faculty and staff who guide them every step of the way.

Led by Kristie Abbs and Bonnie Marsh, assistant professors of social work, this safety net allows students to step out of their comfort zones and fully immerse themselves in the experience, both academically and socially.

“Students traveling abroad used their skill sets to learn about themselves, others and expand their understanding of how the world fits into their personal and professional goals,”Abbs said.

When in Ireland, Overcash found herself in a unique position. While this trip abroad specialized in experiences for social work majors, Overcash studies biology. However, this difference did not place her at a disadvantage.

“Despite it not focusing on my area of study, I still learned a lot about the major and I think it’s important to be well-rounded,” Overcash said. “I don’t think you should just have one path, so I recommend this experience to other students, even if it’s not specifically what they are doing. You learn about things you probably would never be exposed to.”

While the group ’ s stayed in historic Dublin, Overcash found herself captivated by the broader Irish landscape. Overcash and her classmates spent much of their time out in the scenic countryside, sightseeing and engaging with local traditions. The sheer variety of experiences made it impossible to pick just one favorite moment.

“When I got home, my family asked me what my favorite part of the trip was, and I honestly couldn’t tell them because I had a highlight from every single day,” Overcash said. “We did a lot of traveling and would spend most of the day going out to the countryside. There are a lot of popular sites to see, like the Cliffs of Moher. They were beautiful. We went to castles and had great tour guides who were well educated about their culture.”

Another highlight mentioned by Overcash featured a visit to the Glengowla Mines and Family Farm, a culturally rich experience which brought students closer to the land they were visiting. At the mines and farm, SRU students had the opportunity to experience an underground mine tour, sheep herding, as well as traditional Irish turf cutting demonstrations.

“Exploring the different activities at the Glengowla Mines and Family Farm provided the students a chance to learn how people uphold their Irish culture and traditions,” Abbs said.

While the landscapes and history were breathtaking, and the experiences were ripe with traditional background, the connections built along the way created the deepest impact. One of the most meaningful takeaways for Overcash was the tight-knit community built among the SRU students during their travels.

“I made a lot of new friends, and that’s really special because now I’ll get to see them on campus, and I’ll be able to know that we shared an experience together,” Overcash said. “We all bonded, and I was able to make a lot of really close friends that I will continue to talk to, even after being back for a few weeks.”

Overcash’s journey serves as a testament to the power of global education and how studying abroad expands students’ perspectives, strengthen connections and create lasting personal growth.

Overcash was one of more than 160 SRU students to travel abroad this year as part of the University’s study abroad programs. They include eight short-terms programs led by faculty members and administrators, like the one Overcash benefitted from, but there’s also monthlong or semester-long programs where students earn academic credit at partner institutions that are applied to their SRU degree. Additionally, more than 20 education majors completed their student-teaching requirements in Spain. All told, SRU students learned in 30 different countries last year.

“Students can study abroad from any major, for any length of time, in any place in the world it is self-designed,” said Jenny Kawata, SRU’s director of global exchanges and partnerships. “Many of our students who travel abroad say that it is the most impactful experience that they’ve had during their time in college. It makes a big difference for attracting and retaining students, and, most importantly, setting them up to succeed.”

Member News

Leitera Finds Creative Inspiration and Cultural Connection in Japan

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News.SRU.edu on July 1, 2026

Studying abroad teaches students how shared connection bridges the gap between cultures. Slippery Rock University student Michael Leitera, a senior English literature major from New Castle (Shenango HS), as well as 19 others, were able to experience this firsthand when studying abroad in Japan from May 11-21.

“The idea of studying abroad, whether it be for a few weeks or a full semester, was always appealing to me, ” said Leitera. “To have such a great opportunity to travel and then having that collide that with our academic careers and classes, it really allowed us students to expand our horizons and see things that we might never have been able to.”

Led by Yukako Ishimaru and Nicholas Katsiadas, faculty members in the Languages, Literatures, Cultures, and Writing Department, SRU students had the opportunity to participate in the faculty-led study abroad program in Japan. Since 2016, this program has emphasized the importance of international education, enduring relationships and creating a sense of community that can exist anywhere in the world.

SRU’s study abroad program in Japan continues to build upon a partnership established with Saga University. This partnership has developed greatly since 2012, as students from SU have also had the opportunity to travel to the United States and take classes at SRU.

“What makes the SRU-Saga partnership unique is the many layers of exchange that extend far beyond a single visit abroad,” Ishimaru said. “Relationships begin long before students arrive in Japan, deepen through shared experiences during the program and continue long after participants return home.”

The impact of these connections was apparent through the trip to Japan, as SRU students were often visited and welcomed by students from SU who previously studied in the United States, like Ryusei Fukushima and Minamo Kajiwara, who were students at SRU during the 2022-23 academic year.

To further highlight the reciprocal nature of the partnership, 52 current SU students volunteered as conversation partners for the 20 SRU students visiting in May, sparking meaningful intercultural discussions and lifelong friendships.

In addition to building bonds on campus, SRU students experienced daily Japanese life firsthand through homestays. Leitera spent two days living alongside a local family, giving him a deeper appreciation for the country’s culture.

“That was like another level of actually getting to follow the day-to-day life to some extent,” Leitera said. “The family I stayed with had two younger kids, and we would spend the day hanging out, watching television and such.”

Leitera noted that his most profound takeaway from the homestay was realizing how similar people are, despite cultural differences.

“It was really interesting getting to speak with the parents and have in-depth discussions about my experiences as a student in America versus what they had experienced in Japan,” said Leitera. “It was great spending some time with them and seeing how they live their lives, because in America, we do things differently, but at the end of the day we are still doing the same thing. It’s just like a different expression of the same idea.”

Beyond the homestay, the group also visited Nagasaki, the city in Japan that the U.S. struck with an atomic bomb during World War II.

For the SRU students, this became one of the most meaningful and solemn moments of the trip. Saga University students led the day’s itinerary, working alongside their American peers to explore themes of peace, remembrance and global citizenship.

“Nagasaki was the most impactful experience for me, ” Leitera said. “We were able to experience a totally new perspective on something that we may have already developed some sort of belief system around. But to have that perspective be offered, and to immerse yourself in it fully, it really makes you think about the humanity that underscores any situation like Nagasaki. We should be able to explore and share cultures. We should focus on the things that can connect us and help us find similarities among us. ”

The study-abroad program also inspired English majors like Leitera, who found Japan to be the perfect backdrop for his creative writing, broadening the potential for his future professional career plans.

“A lot of my passions and dreams lie within the creative field and other artistic pursuits, and I think that Japan has a strong culture built around storytelling,” Leitera said. “Getting to explore their world of art, entertainment and media was incredibly fascinating, as well as inspirational.”

Navigating a foreign country was made seamless by Ishimaru and Katsiadas, both experienced international travelers.

“Sensei Ishimaru and Dr. Katsiadas were both phenomenal leaders, representatives, and friends,” said Leitera. “Sensei was very helpful in translating and leading us through things, and Dr. Katsiadas is a professor who adds a level of comfort when needed. They both helped greatly with the transition into a foreign country.”

Leitera was one of more than 160 SRU students to travel abroad this year as part of the University’s study abroad programs. They include eight short-terms programs led by faculty members and administrators, like the one Leitera benefitted from, but there’s also month-long or semester-long programs where students earn academic credit at partner institutions that are applied to their SRU degree. Additionally, more than 20 education majors completed their student-teaching requirements in Spain. All told, SRU students learned in 30 different countries last year.

“Students can study abroad from any major, for any length of time, in any place in the world — it is self-designed,” said Jenny Kawata, SRU’s director of global exchanges and partnerships. “Many of our students who travel abroad say that it is the most impactful experience that they’ve had during their time in college. It makes a big difference for attracting and retaining students, and, most importantly, setting them up to succeed.”

More information about study abroad programs at SRU is available at SRU.edu/Academics/Study-Abroad or by calling (724)738-2057.

Member News

Pittsburgh Business Times

2026 Best Places to Work

Awards

This month, six Butler County companies earned recognition as 2026 Best Place to Work by the Pittsburgh Business Times. The annual awards honor organizations that foster exceptional workplace cultures, with rankings based on confidential employee feedback on job satisfaction, leadership, communication, workplace culture, and overall employee experience.

The Butler County Chamber of Commerce congratulates each of these outstanding companies on this well-deserved achievement. Their commitment to creating positive workplaces not only benefits their employees but also strengthens our local business community and contributes to Butler County's continued growth and success.

Member Spotlight

One of the greatest strengths of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce is the success of our members. Every day, businesses and organizations across the county reach new milestones, celebrate achievements, give back to their communities, and make Butler County an exceptional place to live, work, and do business.

In this section, we are proud to highlight our members' accomplishments, recognitions, and positive impact. Join us in celebrating their successes and the many ways they continue to strengthen our local business community.

Butler County Commissioners Get Loan for Infrastructure Projects

Butler County Commissioners plan to borrow a little more than $9 million to lend to three municipalities to help pay for five infrastructure projects through the Butler County Infrastructure Bank program.

Member Spotlight

Weddings By Jeff Double and Thompson Miller Funeral Hom Partner Together

Weddings By Jeff Double and Thompson Miller Fu have officially partnered to assist the community an their time of need and to show their respect for tho passed on.

Congratulations to Julie Colton on Her Election to The ACBA

Congratulations to Obermayer Family Law partner Julie Colton on her election to the Allegheny County Bar Association (ACBA) Board of Governors! Julie will be returning for a three-year term to help guide ACBA's strategic direction.

United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania to Raise $40 Million

The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is campaigning to raise $40 million to put into an endowment fund for the organization’s 100 anniversary in 2027 after receiving a “tremendous number of requests” in this three-year funding cycle.

3 Butler Golden Tornadoes Selected in 2026 MLB Draft

Big news for Butler baseball fans: three of the pitchers (both current and former) for the Butler Golden Tornadoes have been selected in the MLB draft. David Leslie was selected in the ninth round by the New York Yankees, Kyle Casteel was selected in the eleventh round by the Chicago White Sox, and Madden Clement, son of former All-Star Matt Clement, was selected in the fifteenth round by the Kansas City Royals. Congratulations to these players on this huge accomplishment and the exciting futures ahead of them!

New Wegmans Coming to

Cranberry Township

A new Wegmans is to break ground this month in Cranberry Township after Wegmans Food Market secured construction permits in June.

Concordia Visiting Nurses Named Best Home Care Services

Congratulations to the Concordia Visiting Nurses on being named Best Home Health Care Services by the Best of the Valley Community’s Choice Awards. The hard work and dedication of the Concordia Home and Community Services family have not gone unnoticed.

Member Spotlight

Slippery Rock University Recognized for Online Master’ Degree Program

Seven of Slippery Rock University’s (SRU) onlin degree programs were ranked within the T OnlineMasters com ’ s 2026 rankings, including taking for Best Online Master’s in Social Studies Degree This underscores SRU’s commitment to makin education accessible, engaging, and career-focused learners.

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PD Recognized in Chambers and Partners USA 2026 Guide

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC had 32 of its attorneys and 16 of the firm’s practice areas recognized in the Chambers and Partners USA 2026 Guide.

Congratulations, Sylvia Maxwell, on Graduating from Pennsylvania Association of Realtors

Congratulations to Sylvia Maxwell for graduating from the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors (PAR) LeadershipPAR program! Your commitment to showing up and doing the work will help create a stronger future for those you serve.

More Parking for Pullman Recreation Complex Planned

More parking space for the Pullman Recreation Complex is planned for construction on land across Hansen Avenue from the recreation complex.

Congratulations, Samantha Capriotti, on Placing in Ms. Dance of America 2026

Samantha Capriotti, 17, of Butler Township, recently placed in the national Ms. Dance of America 2026 competition as a top 10 finalist.

Congratulations, Sheriff Michael Slupe, on Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

Butler County Sheriff Michael Slupe was recognized with the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award.

Member Spotlight

Concordia Welcomes New Addition

Concordia is excited to welcome another addition to the Concordia family of services officially: Concordia at Kennedy located in Kennedy Twp., PA. This expansion expands their faithbased mission in the greater Pittsburgh region.

Congratulations to SRU’s Safety Management Student Organization

Congratulations to Slippery Rock University’s safety management student organization, which the American Society of Safety Professionals recognized with the Outstanding Student Section of the Year Award at the ASSP’s conference in Anaheim, California!

Congratulations to Penn United Technologies, Inc. On 55 Years!

Congratulations to Penn United Technologies, Inc, for celebrating 55 years of shaping what’s possible through precision, innovation, and integrity! The hard work of the employeeowners, valued partners, and supportive community is at the heart of this milestone.

MSA Safety Secures Acquisition with Autronica Fire and Safety

MSA Safety, a Cranberry Township-based company, has officially secured a $555 million acquisition with Autronica Fire and Safety. The merger was approved on Monday, July 6, by the borough council after an hour-long public hearing. This exciting partnership will be a major step towards regional growth for both the borough and Adams Township.

Slippery Rock High School Awarded $20,000 Grant

Slippery Rock High School was awarded a $20,000 grant to help the district develop programs that combine “ career exploration, instructional learning, and meaningful social experiences” to promote a career in special education. It is partnering with higher education institutions to create “sustainable educator pipelines.”

Welcome Mindy-Jo Maze to the L.E. Insurance, LLC Team

Welcome Mindy-Jo Maze to the I.E. Insurance, LLC team! Mindy will be helping clients with insurance needs once the state approves her license. With decades of customer experience, fantastic attention to detail, and a consistently friendly voice over the phone or via email, Mindy makes an excellent addition to the team.

Member Spotlig

Butler Senior High Sch

Selected for Flight 93 N Memorial Educator Sym

Mrs. Heather Porter, a teacher at Butler selected to participate alongside edu country in the inaugural Flight 93 Nat Symposium. The three-day experien ways to teach students about the even fostering civic responsibility, resilience,

Butler County Organizations Receive Funding

Butler County Organizations, including the Center for Community Resources, the Lighthouse Foundation, and Alliance for Nonprofit Resources, received funding from Watt Geer to address rural needs. Additional funding went toward Kid’s Innovation Playground for its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programming.

SRU Welcomes Master Builder’s Association of Western Pennsylvania

Slippery Rock University welcomed representatives from the Master Builders’ Association of Western Pennsylvania for a tour of their engineering facilities, conversations with faculty and University leaders, and the presentation of a $100,000 gift to support equipment for the new construction management “dirty lab” and other student support.

Congratulations Experience Butler County’s New Board Members

Congratulations to the following individuals who were welcomed onto the Experience Butler County Board:

Carrie Fox (Rose E. Schneider FamilyYMCA), Chairperson

Jessica Sanzotti (Butler Musical Theatre Guild), Arts & Culture (replacing Pat Stagno)

Christie Massari (Grist House Beer Crib), Breweries, Wineries & Distilleries (replacing Neil Glausier)

Welcome, Kristin Murphy, to the Edward Jones Team

Welcome, Kristin Murphy, to the Edward Jones team! Kristin brings a wealth of experience that will enhance the team’s ability to deliver a first-class client experience. With an extensive background in the events space, she will be invaluable in helping clients continue to deliver First-Class Financial Wellness and Social events that enhance their overall experience.

Congratulations, Kim Tillotson Fleming and Craig Tillotson!

Congratulations to Kim Tillotson Fleming, vice chair of Baird, and Craig Tillotson, Managing Director and Family Wealth Advisor with the Tillotson Chamberland Hook Group, on receiving Baird’s Brenton H. Rupple Citizenship Award! Kim and Craig have been committed to strengthening our communities for years and deserve the recognition as individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to giving back.

Member Spotlight

CCR Awarded Capacity-Building Grant By Staunton Farms

Center for Community Resources was awarded a capacitybuilding grant by the Staunton Farm Foundation to support its Cultivating Compliance Capacity project. This will help them fund two years of “The Guard,” a healthcare compliance platform that streamlines compliance processes, reduces administrative burden, and allows CCR to dedicate resources to its mission and to the individuals and families it serves.

Congratulations Experience

Butler County’s New Board Members

UPMC Passavant has surpassed 10,000 robotic-assisted surgeries, a testament to the expertise of our surgical teams and physicians. With three surgical robots, Passavant continues to advance surgical care across specialties including urology, gynecology, surgical oncology, colorectal, general, thoracic, and cardiac surgery.

Local 449 Celebrates Apprenticeship Class of 2026

Congratulations to the Local 449 Steamfitters Apprenticeship Class of 2026! The dedication and drive put into this apprenticeship will follow this future generation of Steamfitters into their work.

made of the ne 18. nging, new top ation their

FAA Approves Flight Tower in Butler

The FAA has approved a flight control tower in Butler, PA, as a candidate for its federal contract tower program. This would allow for certified air traffic controllers to staff the tower and be paid by the FAA.

Member News

Rony Writes Book Highlighting

Importance of Civil Discourse

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News SRU edu on June 18, 2026

Whenlookingatauniversitycurriculum,civildiscoursestandsasanincrediblyimpactfultopic that is often overlooked. Nazmul Rony, a Slippery Rock University associate professor of strategiccommunicationandmedia,ischallengingthatprecedentbyauthoringhislatestbook, “CivilDiscourseinAction.”

“There is a lack of focus on the topic of civil discourse in the world,” Rony said. “We don’t talk aboutethicalandcriticalthinkingenoughasweshould.Iseethatasabigproblem.”

Since beginning his tenure at SRU in 2018, Ronyhas been educating students on the practices ofeffectivecommunication.Atthetimeofhisarrival,thedepartmentwasundergoingamajor curricular shift, moving its foundational focus away from traditional public speaking and towardfosteringprofessionalcommunicationthroughthelensofcivildiscourse.

“We needed to address other important issues besides public speaking, so the program was redesigned,”Ronysaid.“Iwasfortunatetostartrightafterthatchange,soIhadtheopportunity tointegratematerialsintothenewcourseoncivildiscourse.”

Despite this positive change, Rony quickly encountered a roadblock: finding an appropriate textbook forhis classes.To Rony, most available texts eitherglossed overthe core components of civil discourse entirely or analyzed them in a way that felt far too complex for beginners. Thisgapineducationalresourcesultimatelyinspiredhimtowritehisownbook.

BC

“Eversince[2018],I’vebeentryingtofindagoodbookformystudents,andIneverfoundone,” Rony said. “Not many books have topics that cover critical thinking, ethical thinking, media literacy and other things of that nature. If a book is going to have a chapter about ethics, it’s probably going to be at the end, and students assume they can safely ignore that. That idea is themainreasonwhyIwrote‘CivilDiscourseinAction.’Wecannotaffordtoignorethesetopics, andthisismysmallattempttofillthatgap.”

“Civil Discourse in Action”serves as an informative theory and practice book, generally geared toward undergraduate college students, but is not exclusively applicable to them. Rony champions this book as an accessible introduction to the concepts of civil discourse forits easily digestiblenature,makingitaperfectsteppingstoneforanyreader.

“It’s a book that anybody can read, not just undergrad students,” Rony said. “I used very layman language, so that nobody feels like, ‘Oh, this book is so theory heavy.’ I would even say that high schoolstudentscanmakesenseofit.Anybodycanmakeuseofthetopicsaddressedinthebook, andit’senoughtoprepareyouforyourday-to-dayconversationsinacivilmanner.”

More information about the strategic communication and mediaprogram at SRU can be found on the program ’swebpage. More information about Rony’s book can be found on the Cognella AcademicPublishingwebsite.

Nazmul Rony, an SRU associate professor of strategic communications and media (portrait photo by Hannah Slope), has authored a new book titled “Civil Discourse in Action ”

Member News

SRU Business Instructor Achieves Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award

By Justin Zackal, Associate Director of University Marketing and Communication

this article and was originally published at News.SRU.edu on June 23, 2026

Joveline Pettus, a Slippery Rock University instructor of business, received the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award for the 2026-27 academic year from the U.S. DepartmentofStateandtheFulbrightForeignScholarshipBoard.

AspartoftheFulbrightinternationalacademicexchangeprogram,Pettuswilldesignandteach graduate-level coursework in digital ethics, leadership and strategic communication at Makerere University in Uganda. The goal of her project is to strengthen digital ethics and responsible leadership education in East Africa and equip students with frameworks for navigating online safety, misinformation, AI ethics and data governance. The project will also fostercollaborationbetweenU.S.andUgandanfacultyoninterdisciplinarycurriculumdesign.

“Digital harm doesn’t respect borders, and neither should the conversation about how we prevent it,” Pettus said. “I’m honored that Fulbright gave me a chance to do this work in Uganda,tolearnasmuchasIteach,andtobringnewperspectivesbacktomystudentsandmy field.”

Anative of Pittsburgh, Pettus is apart-time facultymemberwithin SRU’s HaverlackCollege of Businesswhoisacandidateforadoctoraldegreeininformationsystemsandcommunications atRobertMorrisUniversity.

“Myresearchandteachingsitattheintersectionofcybersecurity,digitalharm,andAIethics fieldswhere the questions are global but the conversation is often shaped byonlya handful of voices,”Pettussaid.“TheFulbrightScholarProgramofferedawaytowidenthatconversation.I hope to contribute to the dialogue around digital safety, responsible AI, and protecting vulnerable users in fast digitizing societies and to build collaborations and friendships that outlast the grant year. The best Fulbright outcomes aren’t one way; they’re the relationships andideasthatkeepworkinglongafteryoucomehome.”

Pettus’ doctoral dissertation examines cyberstalking, digital harassment and deepfakes. She teaches courses on ethics and AI, computer technology and database management at SRU throughtheUniversity’spartnershipwithQuanzhouUniversityofInformationEngineeringin China.Shehasmorethan20yearsofexperienceasaseniorhumanresourcesexecutive.

Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has supported more than 500,000 award recipients, including 62 Nobel Laureates, 98 Pulitzer Prize winners, 82 MacArthur Fellows, 44 heads of state or government, and thousands of leaders across the private, public, and non-profit sectors.Participatinggovernmentsandhostinstitutions,corporations,andfoundationsaround the world also provide direct and indirect support to the program, which operates in more than160countries.

SRU faculty member Joveline Pettus was awarded a Fulbright U.S. Scholarship to teach at Makerere University in Uganda.

Member News

Sheetz Family’s Gift Fuels Mentorship Program and Nursing Lab at SRU

By Justin Zackal, Associate Director of University Marketing and Communication

this article and was originally published at News.SRU.edu on June 16, 2026

A prominent Slippery Rock University alumnus and his wife are making an additional meaningfulinvestmentinthenextgenerationofSRUstudents.CharlieSheetz’74andhiswife, Gail, have committed significant support to SRU that will strengthen student success and expand academic excellence. Their generosity establishes the Charlie Sheetz ’74 Mentorship Program and the Charlie ’74 and Gail Sheetz Nursing Skills Lab — two strategic initiatives designedtopreparestudentstolead,achieve,andthriveinhigh-demandcareers.

Sheetz, whose family-owned company operates more than 830 convenience stores across a seven-state footprint, credits his SRU experience as foundational to his personal and professionaljourney.

“My education at Slippery Rock University helped shape my work ethic, my leadership style and my belief in the power of opportunity,” said Charlie Sheetz, who earned his degree in elementary education. “Gail and I believe strongly in investing in people, and SRU is a place that consistently develops talented, driven graduates We’re proud to support programs that willempowerstudentstosucceedandmakeadifference.”

These new investments are in addition to the Charles Sheetz Scholarship created in 1998 to supportincomingRockstudentsfromBlairCountywithfinancialneed.

MentorshipProgramElevatesCareerReadiness

Launchinginfall2026,theCharlieSheetzMentorshipProgramisdesignedtopreparejunior andseniorSRUbusinessstudentsfromanymajorforprofessionalsuccessthroughmeaningful alumniengagementandcareer-focusedprogramming.Duringthepilotyear,asmanyas100 studentswillbepairedwith30-40alumnimentorswhocanguide,challengeandsupporttheir journeybasedonsharedinterestsandcareergoals.Programmingwillalsoincludenetworking events,workshopsandotherengagementopportunitiesfocusedoncareerreadiness.

TheSheetzinvestmentwillfundtheprogramforfiveyears.Itemergedfromstrategicinitiatives establishedinSRU’sHaverlackCollegeofBusiness.

“The Charlie Sheetz Mentorship Program brings together the best of what we aim to provide ourstudents,meaningfulrelationshipsandreal-worldpreparation,”saidPrasadVemala,deanof theHaverlackCollegeofBusiness.“Wearegratefulforthesupportbehindthisinitiative,which allows our students to gain confidence, strengthen communication skills, and develop the professionaljudgmentneededtosuccessfullytransitionintotheircareersandbeyond.”

NursingSkillsLabAdvancesHands-OnLearning

The Charlie ’74 and Gail Sheetz Nursing Skills Lab will provide state-of-the-art, immersive trainingenvironmentsthatreplicatereal-worldclinicalsettings.Thelabwillconsistof10stations with hospital-grade equipment, patient beds, functional headwalls, medication carts and vital signmonitors.

Gail and Charlie ’74 Sheetz have made a meaningful investment in Slippery Rock University that establishes two new resources that will shape the future of learning at The Rock

AsSRUlaunchesanewfour-year,pre-licensureBachelorofScienceinNursingprograminfall 2026, renovations are being made to incorporate lab space for when the first cohort reaches theirsecondyearwhenon-campusnursing-specificskillstraininginsimulationlabsbegin.

“Thanks to the generous support of Charlie and Gail Sheetz, SRU’s Nursing Skills Lab will accelerate hands on learning and elevate clinical readiness for every nursing student,” said Christine Karshin, dean of the SRU College of Health Professions. “With hospital grade technology and collaborative practice spaces, students will practice, problem solve and build confidence under the guidance of expert faculty long before they step into real clinical environments.”

Nursingskillslabactivitiesprovideasafe,hands-onenvironmentforstudentstomasterclinical competencies using mannequins, task trainers and simulation. Key activities include assessing vital signs, wound care, medication administration and sterile procedures designed to build confidencebeforeclinicalpractice.

“This gift doesn’t just enhance a lab,” Karshin added. “It strengthens the pipeline of skilled, practicereadynurseswhowillmakeanimmediatedifferenceinthecommunitiestheyserve.”

MeaningfulGivingDrivesSRUMomentum

The Sheetz family’s gift builds on SRU’s forward momentum, where strategic investments are advancingstudentsuccess,academicinnovationandworkforcereadiness.

“We are deeply grateful to Charlie and Gail Sheetz for their extraordinary generosity and their belief in Slippery Rock University,” said Karen Riley, SRU president. “Their support creates lasting opportunities for our students and strengthens programs that address critical workforce needs. This gift reflects the impact of SRU graduates and positions the University to continue delivering lasting excellence and forward-thinking achievements that will benefit our students foryearstocome.”

BC

Member News

Seaton Recognized by National Writing Association

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News.SRU.edu on July 6, 2026

Slippery Rock University alumna Lydia Seaton, ’26, recently achieved national recognition through the Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) for her creative work. Nominated by Patrick McGinty, associate professor of languages, literatures, cultures, and writing, Seaton’s psychological fiction piece “Kintsugi” was named a finalist and earned an honorable mention in the AWP Intro Journals Project.

“This opportunity was very surreal,” Seaton said. “I was incredibly flattered, and it feels great to receive this recognition and know that there are people who have connected with my writing.”

“Kintsugi,” which Seaton wrote as a project in one of McGinty’s creative fiction courses, explores themes of heavy emotions through a traditional form of Japanese art that involves repairing and mending broken pieces of pottery or glass.

BC

“This story was inspired by my own anxiety, the feeling of losing family or being alone,” Seaton said. “One night, I was sewing up my dog’s toy, and I was thinking about repairing things instead of just throwing them away. The idea of mending came into my head, and that idea compounded with that fear of losing family and not wanting to let something go. ”

While the title suggests a sense of healing or growth, “Kintsugi” takes a dark, horrific turn.

“That concept led me to this idea of a woman who lost her family and is not coping well,” Seaton explained. “In my story, she keeps her family in her basement and is ‘saving’ them in refrigerated states, repairing them until the day she can bring them back. This piece is about anxiety and family connections; I tend to isolate these very basic human emotions and then turn the dial up to one hundred in my work.”

For Seaton, the validation from the AWP was a welcome reward for the persistence required in the literary field. Seaton, a native of Emlenton (Allegheny-Clarion Valley HS), graduated in May with a degree in English writing.

“Writing can be a pretty hopeless process, ” Seaton said. “You constantly deal with rejection after rejection, but to know that someone connected with my writing is really nice. When you are rejected, people often say, ‘The writing isn’t bad, it’s just not for me. ’ So, being able to find a certain niche where my writing actually was for someone was very validating.”

The AWP Intro Journals Project is a prestigious competition for the discovery and publication of undergraduate and graduate student creative work. The AWP was established in 1967 as a nonprofit organization, with a focus on supporting the growing number of literary writers in higher education. Winners of the project have their creative pieces included in high-profile literary journals from across the country.

More information about the AWP can be found on the association’s webpage, and more information about the English program at SRU can be found on the program ’ s webpage.

A Business Podcast from the Butler County Chamber of Commerce

Butler County is one of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing counties and the number one county in the state for incoming private investment. The Ballad of Butler County brings you the stories behind that growth.

Host Jordan Grady sits down with the entrepreneurs, executives, and community leaders who are shaping Butler County's future, one conversation at a time.

Member News

John Anthony Represents SRU at ‘Jimi Hendrix Way’ Unveiling in NYC

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News SRU edu on June 11, 2026

SlipperyRockUniversitymusicinstructorandalumnuswasamongtheinvitedguestsata ceremonytounveilthenamingofastreetinNewYorkCityinhonorofrocklegendJimi Hendrix.JohnAnthony,’10,anSRUinstructorofmusic,wasrecognizedforhisworkwith TeachRockbyExperienceHendrix,thefamily-ownedcompanythatmanagestheHendrix estate,June10,asastreetwasofficiallyrenamed“JimiHendrixWay.”

Anthony,apart-timefacultymemberatSRU,isalsoaprofessionalguitaristandrockband teacheratAustintownLocalSchoolsinOhio.HeisanadvocateforTeachRock,afreenational curriculumthatemphasizescoreschoolsubjectswiththepowerofmusicandpopularculture.

AnthonycuratedalessonbasedonJimiHendrix,titled“JimiHendrix:Rock’sTrailblazing InnovatorandInfluentialGuitarist,”thatencouragesstudentstoanalyzeHendrix’slifeasa musician.FromHendrix’srootsasabluesandR&Bartisttohisrevolutionaryreinventionof rockmusic,liveperformanceandsounddesign,studentscanuseAnthony’slessontoexamine thechangingnatureofHendrix’screativeidentityandhislastingimpactonglobalmusic culture.

Anthonyattendedtheexclusiveeventasanhonoredguestalongsideastellarlineupofmusic icons,includingVernonReidofLivingColour,songwriterValerieSimpson,guitaristFelicia CollinsandEddieKramer,thehistoricengineerandproducerwhoworkedintimatelywith Hendrixtoshapehissignaturesound.

Theunveilingservedasawaytohonorthelegacyofthelatemusician,whilealsobeinga platformforTeachRocktoannounceanewofficialpartnershipwithExperienceHendrix.

FoundedbyStevieVanZandt,TeachRockisdesignedbybothmusiciansandeducators, creatingaspacethatallowsstudentstofosterstrongerconnectionswiththecurriculumand worldaroundthemthroughlessonsthatfeelpersonal,curatedandengaging.Across50states, TeachRockhashelpedover80,000educatorsreframetheirclassroomsthroughculturally relevant,specified,lessonplans.

Anthony’sparticipationinthiseventemphasizeshiseffortstobridgethegapbetween professionalmusichistoryandtheclassroom.ByrepresentingSRUattheunveiling,Anthony notonlycelebratedthelifeofanicon,butalsohighlightedthevitalrolethatengagingin culturallyrelevanteducationplaysinkeepingmusicallegaciesaliveforfuturegenerations.

MoreinformationabouttheeventandTeachRockisavailableonline. -

From left, Vernon Reid, from the rock band Living Colour, and SRU music instructor John Anthony were honored guests at the naming ceremony in New York City, June 10, for Jimi Hendrix Way Experience Hendrix, the family-owned company that manages the Hendrix Estate, invited Anthony for his work developing Jimi Hendrix inspired curriculum through TeachRock

Butler County Chamber Energy Program

Since launching last summer, our energy program has delivered... thousands in cost savings for our members and reinvested hundreds more into the community investment fund. Let our local energy experts help you uncover costsaving opportunities for your business today!

MEET

With 50 years of combined experience in the energy industry, Dave Grupp and Stephanie Grenier help our members in making the right choice for their business.

To learn more about our program or get a free price quote, scan the QR code or click HERE to visit our ‘Energy’ program page.

SRU Librarians Showcase Research at National LOEX Conferencehip Lens

By Maxwell Hildebrand, Student Writer

this article and was originally published at News SRU edu on June 9, 2026

Slippery Rock University faculty members Alessia Zanin-Yost, associate professor and health sciences librarian, and Allison Brungard, assistant professor and STEM librarian, recently took center stage at a major national conference, highlighting the University’s growing impact on libraryinstructionandinformationliteracy.

ThespecializedSRUlibrarianspresentedtheircollectionofresearchattheLOEXConferencein Norfolk, Virginia, May 7-9. LOEX is one of the most respected and prestigious peer-reviewed information,literacyandinstructionconferencesforlibrariansinNorthAmerica.

“It was a privilege to present at LOEX, a highly competitive national conference with a 34% acceptancerate,”saidZanin-Yost “Seeingoursessionrankedamongthetop20inattendanceand engaginginsuchrichdialoguewithcolleagueswasbothenergizingandaffirming.It’sgratifying toseeourworkatSRUresonatesostronglywithcolleagues.”

Zanin-Yost and Brungard’s session, titled “Investigating the Disappearance of Student Engagement with Library Research Guides,” explored why students often overlook research guides as their first stop for research, and highlighted strategies to improve visibility and engagement. ZaninYost and Brungard received aprofessionaldevelopmentgrantlastyearfrom Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Educationthatsupportedtheirresearch.

MoreinformationaboutSRU’sBaileyLibraryis availableonthelibrary’swebpage.

-

From left, SRU librarians Alessia Zanin-Yost and Allison Brungard presented their research, titled “Investigating the Disappearance of Student Engagement with Library Research Guides,” at the LOEX Conference in Norfolk, Virginia

Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Jimmy Chua Joins Independence Health System

InfectiousdiseasespecialistJimmyChua,MD,hasjoinedthemedical staff at Independence Health System Butler Memorial and Clarion hospitals, where he will serve as the medical director of infectious diseases, provide consultations for inpatient care and establish an outpatientclinictoexpandaccesstospecializedcare.

An award-winning, board-certified infectious disease specialist, Dr. Chua treats a wide range of complex clinical conditions, including surgical infections; complicated skin and soft tissue infections; HIV and other sexually transmitted infections; pneumonia; endocarditis; osteomyelitis; meningitis; sepsis; viral hepatitis and other liverrelated infections, as well as infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungiandparasites

Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Dr. Chua earned his medical degree from the University of Santo Tomas, recognized as the oldest university in Asia. After practicing in Manila, he relocated to Marshfield, Wisconsin, where he completed an internal medicine residency at Marshfield Clinic, followed by fellowships in infectious diseases and clinical microbiology at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio Dr Chua is a fellow of the American College of Physicians, the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

In 2001, Dr. Chua founded the annual “What’s New in Medicine” regional medical education conference for practitioners in southeastern Washington. His leadership and clinical work have earned him multiple honors, including the Washington chapter of the American College of Physicians’ (ACP) Internist of the Year Award in 2005 and 2023, and the ACP Laureate Award in 2013 an honor reserved for senior physicians recognized for excellence and peer approval in thefieldofinternalmedicine.

Dr. Chua enjoys swimming, traveling with his family, caring for his aquarium, tending to his garden, listening to audiobooks and playing chess. He speaks English, Tagalog, Mandarin, HokkienandSpanish.

BC

“JoiningIndependenceHealthSystemismeaningfultomebothprofessionallyandpersonally,as it allows me to provide expert care for patients in the region while practicing medicine closer to mychildren,”Chuasaid.

To learn more about Independence Health System’s programs and services, visit Independence.health.

Butler Memorial Hospital Expands AFib Treatment with New Pulsed Field Ablation Technology

Independence Health System’s Butler Memorial Hospital is expanding treatment options for patientswithatrialfibrillation(AFib)byofferinganewtypeofcardiacablationtherapydesigned tohelpreducecomplicationsandsupportfasterrecovery.

Electrophysiologists (heart rhythm specialists) at the hospital are now performing procedures using Abbott’s Volt™ Pulsed Field Ablation System, a next-generation technology that treats irregularheartrhythmswithoutusingextremeheatorcold.

The first procedures using the system in Pennsylvania were performed in early June at Butler MemorialHospital.

Keeping expert care local, Independence Health System’s electrophysiology program provides comprehensive care for patients with complex heart rhythm disorders. Patients have access to advanced diagnostic testing and minimally invasive treatment options, provided by a multidisciplinary cardiac care team, guided by evidence-based practices and a strong focus on patientsafety.

“Atrial fibrillation and other cardiac arrhythmias can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and increase the risk of serious complications, including stroke,” Virginia Singla, M.D., electrophysiologistatButlerMemorialHospital,said.“Offeringpulsedfieldablationexpandsthe treatment options available in our community and helps patients return to their daily activities morequickly”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 12 million people in the United States will be living with AFib by 2050. People with AFib face a fivefold increasedriskofstroke,makingearlydiagnosisandtreatmentcritical

When medication and other treatment options for AFib are unsuccessful, many patients rely on cardiac ablation, a minimally invasive procedure used to restore normal heart rhythm. Pulsed field ablation is an alternative to traditional thermal ablation. Instead, pulsed field ablation uses high-energy electrical pulses, rather than extreme temperatures, to target the cardiac tissue responsibleforcausingAFibwhilereducingtheriskofdamagetosurroundingtissues.

Symptoms of AFib can include a rapid or irregular heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest discomfort, according to the American Heart Association. Some people may notexperiencesymptoms,whichiswhyroutinecheck-upswitha healthcareproviderremainimportant

For more information about the award-winning cardiology services offered at Independence Health System’s programs and services,visitIndependence.health.

Member News

South College Pittsburgh Celebrates

More than 150 Healthcare

Graduates

South College Pittsburgh held commencement ceremonies on June 19 to celebrate students graduating from its growing healthcare education programs. Approximately 153 students crossed the stage and celebrated the milestone with loved ones after successfully completing programs including Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nursing, Radiography, Respiratory Therapy and Surgical Technology.

“The Pittsburgh area is a major hub for the healthcare industry, and we pride ourselves on preparing our graduates to be highly skilled employees,” South College Pittsburgh President Dr Anne Petrella said “The students at the 2026 commencement ceremony believed in themselves and demonstrated the commitment to achieve their goals. I want to congratulate all our graduates and wish them continued professional success. ”

The ceremony took place at Steamfitters Event Center and included remarks from Ethan Nicholas, president of the Pittsburgh Business Exchange.

Located in Pittsburgh’s North Hills community in Cranberry Township, the South College campus offers a variety of healthcare programs, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing and healthcare-centric Associate of Science programs in Surgical Technology, Nursing, Health Science (Pre-Nursing), Radiography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Respiratory Therapy, along with certificate programs in Practical Nursing and other related programs.

The campus offers modern laboratories for surgical technology, ultrasound, radiography and nursing; lecture classrooms with smart technology; a student break room; and a resource center For additional information about South College Pittsburgh, visit South edu/Pittsburgh

Across its national footprint, South College offers more than 150 academic programs and concentrations in business, education, healthcare and other fields. The institution was founded in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1882 and now includes 10 physical campuses, online learning and Competency-Based Education (CBE). To learn more about South College, visit South.edu.

South College serves more than 20,000 students and is proud of its more than 20,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and Competency-Based Education (CBE). South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them

South College holds commencement June 19, 2026, at Steamfitters Event Center in Pittsburgh to celebrate approximately 153 graduates.

Member News

South College Adds New Pathway to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Through Flexible Competency-Based Education (CBE)

South College has expanded its Competency-Based Education (CBE) programs with a pathway for BSN RNs to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, further enhancing access to advanced degrees and professional growth.

The BSN-to-DNP program track through CBE, available in August 2026, creates a pathway for those with a with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and RN license to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) through CBE delivery, which allows professionals to advance through the curriculum online by demonstrating content mastery.

“The CBE model has become a proven way for nursing professionals to earn an advanced degree and develop new skills and expertise, while maintaining their current healthcare career, ” said Dr. Michael Patrick, South College CBE president. “By offering the BSN-to-DNP program track at South College, we are reaching professionals where they are in their work and personal lives with a path that meets their needs.”

Like other CBE models, the program is structured for working professionals balancing multiple responsibilities. Students can progress at their own pace by demonstrating mastery of familiar course material while devoting more time to new and complex topics.

The program is aligned with the April 2026 edition of The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education, which is prepared by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and reflects current national standards.

“We expect the BSN-to-DNP CBE program track to draw a lot of interest from nursing professionals because it provides a clear path to a doctorate from a bachelor’s degree,” Patrick said. “A DNP offers the opportunity for professional growth such as advanced clinical roles, executive leadership, college professor positions and options in nursing research and policy fields.”

In addition, baccalaureate-prepared nurses will have a seamless path to doctoral-level expertise through an efficient curriculum that moves from foundational knowledge to advanced practice readiness. The credit hours reflect expanded content depth, greater academic rigor and alignment with accreditation standards and competency expectations.

South College offers monthly start dates for CBE programs. Students may enroll in a six-month subscription-based model and progress at their own pace with the benefit of a faculty mentor and an interactive online environment that fosters collaboration.

South College offers multiple CBE programs, including master’s, doctoral and postdoctoral certificates in areas such as nursing; business and technology; education; criminal justice; and ministry. For more information and to apply, visit South.edu/CBE.

South College also offers more than 150 academic programs and concentrations at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida; as well as Online and through Competency-Based Education (CBE).

To learn more about South College, visit South.edu. -

BC

Member News

Former DA First New BC3 Trustee in 6 Years

Commissioners appoint attorney today to complete five-year term of

late board member

Sheryle Long helped patients as a critical-care nurse in cities such as Los Angeles, established a first-responder program at a higher education institution near Miami, earned a law degree, was elected as Butler County’s first female district attorney and today became the first appointment to Butler County Community College’s board of trustees in nearly six years.

Commissioners Leslie Osche, Kimberly Geyer and Kevin Boozel voted unanimously today to select the Renfrew resident to complete the remaining five years of the term of Glenn T. Miller, who at the time of his passing in January was the college’s longestserving active trustee at nearly 28 years.

“The community college means so much to Butler County and even surrounding counties,” said Osche, chair of the commissioners. “The college contributes to the community not only through education but by building a workforce for the future. So it is really important to have trustees who bring experience, knowledge and commitment to the table.

“It takes folks who have built a life of service, and who have a vast understanding of so many different topics. This is perhaps the most critical of all the board appointments that the commissioners make.”

BC3’s board is a policymaking body that provides direction and guidance to the college’s president and administration. Trustees’ primary functions include establishing basic policy, appointing the president and overseeing financial control of BC3, which in addition to its main campus in Butler Township has additional locations in Armstrong, Butler, Jefferson and Lawrence counties.

Sheryle Long

Commissioners’ most-recent appointment was that of Robi Lombardo, who in October 2020 was chosen to complete the term of Nancy H. Staible, a retired physician assistant who stepped down after serving nearly eight years as a trustee.

“Going on to BC3’s board, I know there is continuity with people who understand longterm plans and have the best interest of the college at heart,” Long said. “I have the opportunity to offer insight as someone who is just looking into the inner workings of the college.

“It’s important to have people there with history and understanding. But it is just as important to have someone go on the board and says, ‘Have you looked in this direction? Or what about over here?’ And always working as a team.”

The native of Dothan, Ala., was raised in South Florida. She attended East Los Angeles College in Monterey Park, Calif., earned an associate degree in registered nursing and later worked in emergency rooms in Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Kubit said.

Long attained a bachelor’s degree in registered nursing from Florida International University in Miami She became interested in “the interface of law and health care, ” achieved a law degree from what is now Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale and later created an emergency medical technician and paramedic program at nearby Broward College.

She moved to Butler County in the late 1980s, co-founded in 1989 the law firm of Schenck and Long, which is limited to medical malpractice, products liability and personal injury, and served as district attorney from 19921995.

Former Gov. Tom Ridge in 2000 appointed Long as a trustee at what was then Clarion University of Pennsylvania, a role she served for two years.

“Sheryle brings a unique combination of legal expertise, leadership experience and public service to our board,” said Megan M Coval, BC3’s president “As an attorney, former district attorney and former university trustee, she understands both the responsibilities of governance and the importance of serving the public good.

“Sheryle brings a unique combination of legal expertise, leadership experience and public service to our board,” said Megan M. Coval, BC3’s president. “As an attorney, former district attorney and former university trustee, she understands both the responsibilities of governance and the importance of serving the public good.

“Her experience navigating complex issues, building consensus and thinking strategically will be a tremendous asset to her fellow trustees and to the college. Just as importantly, she brings a forward-thinking perspective and a strong belief in the mission of BC3 that will help us continue creating opportunities for students and strengthening our communities.”

BC

Among those Long will join as a trustee is board chairman Joseph E. Kubit, a Butler County judge.

Joseph E. Kubit, chair of Butler County Community College’s board of trustees, a BC3 distinguished alumni and Butler County judge, addresses the college’s Class of 2026 inside the Field House on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township during commencement Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Sheryle Long, a former Butler County district attorney appointed Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to BC3’s board “is highly respected and multi-talented,”

“Sheryle,” Kubit said, “is highly respected and multi-talented. Having been a registered critical-care nurse prior to entering the legal profession where she is held in high esteem, Sheryle misses no opportunity to share her wisdom, knowledge and broad skills in serving and helping others.

Long relocated to Butler County when her husband, Clark, accepted a position at what is now UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. Their daughters Mykie and Ashley attended and graduated from BC3, where Long briefly taught courses to students in the college’s registered nursing program

“Lecturing on medical, legal and nursing topics,” Long said. “What really amazed me when I walked into the classroom was that I wasn’t speaking to just 18- or 19-year-olds. Many of them were adults who raised their families and were coming back to school. And we were going to take some people with life experience who were becoming registered nurses and place them out there. That, to me, was exciting.”

The average age of 2026 graduates of BC3’s registered nursing program on its main campus and at BC3 @ Brockway in Jefferson County was 29 years, nine months.

About 40 percent of graduates in BC3’s Class of 2026 were at least 25 years of age.

County judge, speaks from the stage inside the Field House on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township during commencement Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Sheryle Long, a former Butler County district attorney appointed Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to BC3’s board “is highly respected and multi-talented,” Kubit said

Glenn T Miller, right, greets Butler County Community College graduate Steven Pander, of Portersville, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township before commencement At left is Jenn Loue, BC3’s director of student access and success. Miller was BC3’s longest-serving active trustee at 28 years at the time of his death in January Sheryle Long, a former Butler County district attorney, was appointed to BC3’s board Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to complete the remaining five years of Miller’s six-year term

“BC3 is important to me because it provides a means for anyone, at any age, to continue their education, and to go on for advanced degrees or to go into the workforce with a technical degree,” Long said.

“There is so much the community can do with BC3. It is a community-driven institution in that people of all ages can find something that fits their needs in terms of education or relationships.”

Long’s selection was announced today at the trustees’ meeting at BC3 @ Armstrong in Ford City.

Nearly 110 community members have served as a BC3 trustee since the first board was appointed June 15, 1965. The board has 15 members and a Butler County commissioner who serves in an ex-officio role.

Geyer, the ex-officio member and vice chair of the commissioners, said Long has a wealth of expertise in health care and in law and that they have had “substantial” conversations since first meeting.

“Everything from the importance of good governance, leadership issues, nursing and health care issues, what students need to know, the community and many other issues,” Geyer said. “I always leave those conversations having learned something new We are pleased to have her join the BC3 board of trustees and help lead our community’s institution of higher education as we forge into the future.”

Long’s familiarity with businesses, families and community organizations, and her professional background, “will provide a lot of benefits to the board,” said Boozel, secretary of the commissioners and like Geyer and Kubit a BC3 distinguished alumni.

Robi Lombardo, left, a Butler County Community College trustee, is shown Wednesday, May 13, 2026, before commencement inside the Field House on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township The West Penn Power/Penn Power regional external affairs consultant’s appointment to BC3’s board in October 2020 was the most recent until Sheryle Long, a former Butler County district attorney, was selected Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

“Thinking about Glenn Miller and all of the things he did and all of the people he knew brought something unique,” Boozel said. “It’s all about our communities. If I’ve heard it once I’ve heard it a thousand times, and it’s true It’s the community’s college ”

Long will join on BC3’s board Kubit; Geyer; Dr. William A. DiCuccio, M.D., board vice chair and medical director, Sunnyview Nursing Home; Scott A. McDowell, board treasurer and chief financial officer, Blair Strip Steel; Kenneth DeFurio, president and chief executive officer, Independence Health System; and Vicki Hinterberger, retired president and general manager, Butler Radio Network

She also joins Lombardo, regional external affairs, West Penn Power/Penn Power; Gordon L. Marburger, dairy farmer; Brian K. McCafferty, coowner, Rooster’s Coffee Bar; Gail A. Paserba, chief executive officer, International Quality Consultants; and Jennifer R. Pullar, attorney, Paragon Legal.

BC3’s board also includes Dr. Bruce Russell, dean emeritus, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania; Carmine A Scotece, chief population health officer, Southwest Behavioral Health Management; Joe Taylor, vice president and general manager, Armstrong Groups of Companies; and Nadine Tripodi, owner and chief executive officer, Butler Technologies.

Glenn Miller

Butler County Community College Announces President’s and Dean’s Lists, Graduates for Spring 2026

Butler County Community College is proud to announce the names of students who have made the president’s or dean’s lists for the spring 2026 semester, as well as the names of those who have graduated recently.

Graduates - Spring 2026

Sabrina Meanor, Bruin

Maggie Alexander, Butler

Molly Andrews, Butler

Emma Barkley, Butler

John Barkus, Butler

Logun Beck, Butler

Braden Bergbigler, Butler

Jessie Boggs, Butler

Jack Bosa, Butler

Taylor Campbell, Butler

Maxwell Channells, Butler

Ashley Chikosky, Butler

Noah Coachman, Butler

Kaia Conerty, Butler

David Cribbs, Butler

Elizabeth Daugherty, Butler

Rachel Decker, Butler

Ryan Desantis Jr., Butler

Mikayla Emery, Butler

Tammy Gatto, Butler

Ian Goldstein, Butler

Paige Hampe, Butler

Della Harvey, Butler

Steve Hassler, Butler

Lilly Herko, Butler

Lily Hillard, Butler

Serena Horstman, Butler

Katrina Hovanec, Butler

Samantha Johnson, Butler

Karolina Karner, Butler

Samantha Klemz, Butler

Ella Link, Butler

Kaela Malis, Butler

Frances Martin, Butler

Blake McDeavitt, Butler

Mindy Miller, Butler

Stormie Milligan, Butler

Savannah Morris, Butler

Shaelynn Nagle, Butler

Ashton Neely, Butler

Angelena Neff, Butler

McKenna O’Brien, Butler

Libro Oniboni, Butler

Andrew Pegg, Butler

Raven Priester, Butler

Makenzie Reay, Butler

Gina Rhoades, Butler

Sydni Rodgers, Butler

Brittney Schoonover, Butler

Chester Schwalm, Butler

Damon Sheakley, Butler

Nichole Sico, Butler

Paul Simon, Butler

Payton Slagle, Butler

Andrew Slywczuk, Butler

Eban Smith, Butler

Teaghan Steighner, Butler

Ryley Strengari, Butler

Seth Windsor, Butler

Jenna Worsley, Butler

Gavin Yomes, Butler

Renee Young, Butler

Jessica Burgard, Cabot

Devon Norris, Cabot

Andrew Olczak, Cabot

Annabelle Reid, Cabot

Taylor Scott, Cabot

Kerstin Cypher, Chicora

Elizabeth DeRose, Chicora

Emma Ellenberger, Chicora

Emily Hillwig, Chicora

Madelynn McCloskey, Chicora

Ireland O’Donnell, Chicora

Hannah Cress, Cranberry Township

Dylan Corbin, Cranberry Township

Lily Chubeck, Cranberry Township

Stefany Garcia, Cranberry Township

Alex Kovac, Cranberry Township

Nicole Lashure, Cranberry Township

Emma Lee, Cranberry Township

Anna Savianok, Cranberry Township

Emily Sigmund, Cranberry Township

Raegan Walker, Cranberry Township

Christopher Williams, Cranberry Township

Sada Winters, Cranberry Township

Stanjaro Druh Coronado, East Brady

Leah Barnes, East Butler

Kayla Giesler, East Butler

Pennapa Ali, Evans City

Aiden Baker-Mobley, Evans City

Sean Hauserman, Evans City

Keilyn Pagonis, Evans City

Abigail Luppe, Fenelton

Mason Tynan, Fenelton

Jacob Marquardt, Harmony

Gabrielle Hartle, Harrisville

James Hendell, Karns City

Blake Smith, Karns City

Alex Davis, Lyndora

Augustus Aubrecht, Mars

Isabella Bennett, Mars

Hanna Chamberlain, Mars

Cooper Courson, Mars

Olivia Gamber, Mars

Megan McSwain, Mars

Makenna Melnyk, Mars

Paige Stafford, Mars

Eric Steffler, Mars

Madyson Fields, Petrolia

Tyler Hutchison, Petrolia

Zachary McClaine, Petrolia

Lila Fox, Portersville

Olivia Tiche, Portersville

Macy Workman, Portersville

Joseph Calderone, Prospect

Layne Drew, Prospect

Lori Pollock, Prospect

Kadeon Austin, Renfrew

Kerri Nagel, Renfrew

Isabella Begenwald, Sarver

Ryan Claypool, Sarver

Sophia Hanson, Sarver

Liam Kaper, Sarver

Jackson Snow, Sarver

Marilyn Fink, Saxonburg

John Iole, Saxonburg

Chloe Rial, Saxonburg

Nina Szymanski, Saxonburg

Isabella Nagel, Seven Fields

Alyssa Riddle, Slippery Rock

Mia Caruso, Valencia

Isabella Abbruzzese, Zelienople

Molly Bissell, Zelienople

Noah Hazy, Zelienople

Wyatt Hufnagel, Zelienople

President’s List - Spring 2026

Students who have achieved a cumulative GPA (grade-point average) of 3.75 or higher are named to the president’s list following completion of at least 12 semester hours or upon completion of degree requirements.

Sabrina Meanor, Bruin

Grace Ambuske, Butler

Wyatt Anke, Butler

Ava Ball, Butler

Emma Barkley, Butler

Griffin Bauer, Butler

Jadyn Baxter, Butler

Kristen Bayer, Butler

Braden Bergbigler, Butler

Carter Blystone Jr., Butler

Rylie Blystone, Butler

Noah Bocian, Butler

Henry Bortmes, Butler

Blake Boulanger, Butler

Allyson Braun, Butler

Klayre Brown, Butler

Logan Brown, Butler

Alexis Buck, Butler

Jillian Cairns, Butler

Jessica Calhoun, Butler

Taylor Campbell, Butler

Maxwell Channells, Butler

Grace Christy, Butler

Noah Coachman, Butler

Omariawna Collins, Butler

Kaia Conerty, Butler

Samantha Cooper, Butler

Sophia Cornetti, Butler

Joshua Cumberland, Butler

Alaina Daily, Butler

Ava Davis, Butler

Ryan Desantis Jr , Butler

Alano DiCerbo, Butler

Morgan Drake, Butler

Samantha Eddy, Butler

Brook Ellis, Butler

Gene Fend, Butler

Silas Fisher, Butler

Jackson Froilan, Butler

Cohen Gamble, Butler

Tobias Geibel, Butler

Trinity Gowens, Butler

Lilly Herko, Butler

Emily Hile, Butler

Sarah Hile, Butler

Serena Horstman, Butler

Mason Huey, Butler

Marissa Hull, Butler

Jennifer Iman, Butler

Deanika Jolly, Butler

Maiya Kamerer, Butler

Karolina Karner, Butler

Mallory Kendrick, Butler

Halayna King, Butler

Kaylee Krchnak, Butler

Miles Lavery, Butler

Maggie Lucas, Butler

Kaela Malis, Butler

Lucas Martin, Butler

Mackenzie Mathers, Butler

Taylor Miller, Butler

Ivey Moore, Butler

1 Savannah Morris, Butler

Sarah Munko, Butler

Julia Neff, Butler

McKenna O’Brien, Butler

Libro Oniboni, Butler

Grant Ordy, Butler

Brielle Pinto, Butler

Olivia Porneluzi, Butler

Leah Poskin, Butler

Julia Reynolds, Butler

Gina Rhoades, Butler

Lyla Rodgers, Butler

Jon Schnur, Butler

Chester Schwalm, Butler

Arianna Seth, Butler

Delaney Shorts, Butler

Taylor Simon, Butler

Andrew Slywczuk, Butler

Ryan Smith, Butler

Teaghan Steighner, Butler

Vanessa Sweeney, Butler

Madison Thornton, Butler

Georgi Tonini, Butler

Cullen Tritt, Butler

Amelia Turner, Butler

Mikayla Turner, Butler

Colten Vietmeier, Butler

Cecelia Wolford, Butler

Annette Woller, Butler

Parker Worsley, Butler

Kaylen Yaracs, Butler

Ty Young, Butler

Ivan Zhivkov, Butler

Devon Norris, Cabot

Ashley Colonello, Chicora

Brianna Covert, Chicora

Madison Folk, Chicora

Wheeler Gamble, Chicora

Emily Hillwig, Chicora

Adele Hohn, Chicora

Leah Karenbauer, Chicora

Colin Leitem, Chicora

Madelynn McCloskey, Chicora

Julia Acker, Cranberry Township

Keith Burris, Cranberry Township

Nicolette Greco, Cranberry Township

Rron Hysenaj, Cranberry Township

Alana Jensen, Cranberry Township

Peter McHenry, Cranberry Township

Brandi Ruiz, Cranberry Township

Max Wagstaff, Cranberry Township

Trevor Weigand, Cranberry Township

Gianna Barbarino, Cranberry Township

Emily Hatt, Cranberry Township

Shealtreece Rabychund, Cranberry Township

Jocelyn Repas, Cranberry Township

Samantha Wain, Cranberry Township

Caitlin Cross, Cranberry Township

Kayla Giesler, East Butler

Daleen Paulsen, East Butler

Melissa Arcuri, Evans City

Robert Arcuri, Evans City

Arundhati Bagchi, Evans City

Halle Karns, Evans City

Natalie Miller, Evans City

Emma Mauthe, Fenelton

Christianna Wright, Fenelton

Samantha Liput, Freeport

Mallory Farah, Harmony

Zachary Kennedy, Harmony

Sarah Swartz, Harmony

Jenna Blauser, Karns City

Constance Long, Karns City

Alexander Beggs, Lyndora

Alex Davis, Lyndora

Augustus Aubrecht, Mars

Makenna Melnyk, Mars

Luc Papakalos, Mars

Jacob Remboldt, Mars

Gavin Wagner, Mars

Nathaniel Washington, Mars

Tyler Hutchison, Petrolia

Lila Fox, Portersville

Dylan Freehling, Prospect

Delaney Jamison, Prospect

Lexis Bowser, Renfrew

Charles Boyle, Renfrew

Ayden Dally, Renfrew

Shayna Fleeger, Renfrew

Rylee Jack, Renfrew

Makenna Lydon, Renfrew

Micah Schirra, Renfrew

Faith Schnur, Renfrew

Timothy Wolfe Jr , Renfrew

Peter Zulick, Renfrew

Isabella Begenwald, Sarver

Morgan Croney, Sarver

Brea Grant, Sarver

Sophia Hanson, Sarver

Denver Ott, Sarver

Jacksen Reiser, Sarver

Brock Villella, Sarver

Noah Waldenville, Sarver

Lillian Canel, Saxonburg

Lillian Daniels, Saxonburg

Tiffany Dolmayer, Saxonburg

Zachary Thompson, Saxonburg

Kaiana Dean, Slippery Rock

Makenna Kellerman, Slippery Rock

Graci Kniess, Slippery Rock

Alyssa Lamenza, Slippery Rock

Anora Robare, Slippery Rock

Delaney Staab, Slippery Rock

Megan Watkins, Slippery Rock

Katelyn Watters, Slippery Rock

Kalley Caughey, Valencia

Sarah Ebel, Valencia

Ryan Garver, Valencia

Tessa Jenkins, Valencia

Kelley Kozesky, Valencia

Leah McClellan, Valencia

Joseph Vivirito, Valencia

Sydney Bayless, West Sunbury

Taylor Voloch, West Sunbury

Jacob Glass, Zelienople

Hannah Wehner, Zelienople

*Names shown are only the recipients from Butler County

Dean’s List - Spring 2026

Students who have achieved a cumulative GPA (grade-point average) of 3.5 to 3.74 are named to the dean’s list following completion of at least 12 semester hours or upon completion of degree requirements.

Regis Pint, Bruin

Hope Pletcher, Bruin

Lauren Beggs, Butler

Chris Biondo, Butler

Ashley Chikosky, Butler

Ashley Daily, Butler

Haley Gruseck, Butler

Julie Gustafson, Butler

Emma Jarvis, Butler

Aidan Jones, Butler

Mckenzie McCorry Jr., Butler

Blake McDeavitt, Butler

Lucy McFall, Butler

Nicolas Monteleone, Butler

Angelena Neff, Butler

Andrew Pegg, Butler

Leah Radwanski, Butler

Lily Ruth, Butler

Sophia Shakely, Butler

Liza Wick, Butler

Rowan Follstaedt, Butler

Kayla Bohn, Cabot

Jessica Bowser, Cabot

McKenna Boyle, Chicora

Alyssa Cornell Sr., Chicora

Autumn Crawford, Chicora

Franklin Elliott, Chicora

Karley Schaefers, Cranberry Township

Dat Bright, Cranberry Township

Tri Tran, Cranberry Township

Madisen Newton, Cranberry Township

Joseph Richards, Cranberry Township

Ashley Shever, Cranberry Township

Randall Tamilia, Cranberry Township

Raegan Walker, Cranberry Township

Andrew Wasko, Cranberry Township

Dillon Fassinger, Evans City

Richard Tutich Jr , Evans City

Jose Diaz IV, Evans City

Benjamin Horstman, Fenelton

Maxwell Weiland, Fenelton

Mei McGinnis, Karns City

Autumn Stenzel, Karns City

Brianna Reed, Lyndora

Hanna Chamberlain, Mars

Zachary Rozman, Mars

Sarunas Sarocka, Mars

Elizabeth Lowery, Portersville

Wyatt McLaughlin, Portersville

Jocelyn Plaisted, Prospect

Willow Donnel, Renfrew

Courtney Feil, Renfrew

Ryan Claypool, Sarver

Gavin Croney, Sarver

Malena Doerr, Sarver

Shane Seagriff, Sarver

Sierra Wise, Saxonburg

Kaitlyn Bane, Slippery Rock

Faith Derr, Slippery Rock

Mary Fritz, Slippery Rock

Molly Helman, Slippery Rock

Ellayna Henricks, Slippery Rock

Allen Matz, Slippery Rock

Luke Friday, Valencia

Hannah Grunden, Valencia

Joshua Queen, West Sunbury

Roger Wright, Worthington

Isabella Abbruzzese, Zelienople

Christin Buchanan, Zelienople

Diyora Qahorova, Zelienople

*Names

Volunteer Portal

Member News

Butler County Commuity College Foundation

Executive Director Thanks Donors

In a letter to supporters of Butler County Community College Education Foundation Executive Director, Mikayla Moretti reflects on the student community that is empowered by generosity:

Dear BC3 Supporters,

As we close another academic year at Butler County Community College, we are grateful for your generosity and the opportunities it creates for our students and our communities.

Because of donors like you, another class of pioneers has crossed the commencement stage and begun their next chapter. The BC3 Class of 2026 includes:

488 graduates

82% who graduated debt-free

More than $263,000 in scholarships awarded Graduates ranging in age from 17 to 69

Students entering the workforce, transferring to four-year institutions, and serving communities throughout our region

These numbers tell an important story, but behind each one is a person whose life has been changed through education, opportunity, and the support of a community that believes in their potential.

Every gift to the BC3 Education Foundation helps create opportunities for students to learn, grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals. Whether you support scholarships, workforce programs, the Pioneer Pantry, campus improvements, or unrestricted opportunities, your investment makes a meaningful difference

Mikayla Moretti, executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations.

One graduate who embodies the determination and resilience of our students is this year ' s commencement speaker, Gina Rhoades. After experiencing the tragic loss of her brother, Gina persevered through significant personal challenges while pursuing her education. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA and inspired her fellow graduates with a message of kindness and courage.

Gina's story reminds us that every graduate's journey is unique, and that a caring community of supporters helps ensure students have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed

I invite you to read Gina's inspiring story here: Resilience at heart of BC3 student

On behalf of the BC3 Education Foundation and the students whose lives you touch, thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the success of our students. As we celebrate 60 Years of Pioneers, we look forward to sharing more stories of impact and continuing this important work together.

Mikayla Moretti

Gina Rhoades, of Butler, is shown Wednesday, May 5, 2026, in the Heaton Family Learning Commons on Butler County Community College’s main campus in Butler Township. Submitted Photo

Member News

Record 328 Students Apply for Record 166 BC3 Scholarships

as

July 1 Deadline Nears

Italian Society of Butler County’s $15K endowment establishes perpetual financial award.

The 125-year-old Italian Society of Butler County will perpetually support students pursuing criminology or registered nursing degrees at Butler County Community College.

The 400-member social club’s $15,500 gift to the BC3 Education Foundation establishes an endowment and brings the number of financial awards available to BC3 students in the 2026-2027 academic year to a record 166.

Students registered in associate degree, certificate or workplace certificate programs at BC3 this fall can view scholarships and complete one application at BC3.edu/Scholarships until July 1, said Bobbi Jo Cornetti, the BC3 Education Foundation’s scholarship and development coordinator.

A record 328 students have applied for a scholarship as of June 23, Cornetti said, adding that recipients will be notified by Aug. 3.

Scholarships created at or that reach $15,000 be

The Italian Society of Butler County’s financial award will debut this fall along with the Leanne Heaton Memorial Scholarship, the Richard P. and Linda L. Musko Scholarship; the Sharon A. Cooper Memorial Scholarship; and the American Legion Riders Lyndora Chapter 778 Veterans Scholarship – all endowed – and the annual BC3 Project Pink for Hope Scholarship.

Financial awards are available to students enrolled at BC3’s main campus in Butler Township, at BC3 @ Armstrong in Ford City, BC3 @ Brockway in Brockway, BC3 @ Cranberry in Cranberry Township or BC3 @ Lawrence in Shenango Township; in online courses or in the college’s virtual programs, Cornetti said

Italian Society of Butler County officers and Butler County Community College administrators are shown Thursday, May 21, 2026, on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township after the 125-year-old social club created an endowed scholarship with a $15,500 gift to the BC3 Education Foundation

From left, Jason Delano, vice president of the Italian Society of Butler County; Chris Lascuola, treasurer; James Lascuola, secretary; Mikayla Moretti, executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations; Bobbi Jo Cornetti, the foundation’s scholarship and development coordinator; D.J. Trombatt, president of the social club; and Dan Palombo, a social club trustee.

BC3 Education Foundation scholarships in 2026-2027 will range from $300 to $5,000 and average $500, Cornetti said. The foundation distributed to BC3 students from Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Cambria, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Erie, Jefferson, Lawrence, Mercer and Venango counties a thenrecord 164 financial awards in 2025-2026 and totaling $295,210, Cornetti said.

BC3’s affordability, financial aid options and BC3 Education Foundation scholarships enabled 82 percent of the college’s Class of 2026 to graduate debt-free.

“That’s an incredible thing for these students,” Cornetti said. “There are so many colleges and universities where the tuition leaves a lot of students in huge debt when they are starting out in their careers It’s wonderful that they can leave here with a two-year degree debt-free and be able to focus on preparing for their careers. Graduating debt-free makes a huge difference in their lives.”

Society of Butler County officers and Butler County Community College administrators are shown Thursday, May 21, 2026, on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township after the 125year-old social club created an endowed scholarship with a $15,500 gift to the BC3 Education Foundation From left, D J Trombatt, Dan Palombo, James Lascuola, Chris Lascuola, Mikayla Moretti, Jason Delano and Bobbi Jo Cornetti Trombatt is president of the Italian Society of Butler County; Palombo is a trustee; James Lascuola is secretary; Chris Lascuola is treasurer; Moretti is executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations; Delano is vice president of the social club and Cornetti is the foundation’s scholarship and development coordinator

Foundation At right is Mikayla Moretti, executive director of the foundation and external relations.

BC3 is the only institution of higher education for which the Italian Society of Butler County has created a scholarship, social club trustee Dan Palombo and president D.J. Trombatt said.

“We support a tremendous number of organizations in the Butler area, ” Palombo said. “We felt it was appropriate it would go to BC3 where we could have some impact on those students matriculating into higher education.

“We know the importance of health care in particular and the need for people who are pursuing health care education,” Palombo said “Obviously BC3 has a great nursing program We were aware of that. Nursing is a critical need in the area, and, quite frankly, in the country. We need many, many more nurses.

“From a criminology standpoint, students who get that degree can pursue jobs at local police departments, state police departments. They can choose forensics. There are a number of things they can do with that degree that will support the greater community ”

BC

Health care providers and government were among the Top 10 employers in Butler County as of October, according to the most recent report from the state Department of Labor & Industry’s Center for Workforce Information and Analysis.

Dan Palombo, left, a trustee with the Italian Society of Butler County, is shown Thursday, May 21, 2026, in an office on Butler County Community College’s main campus in Butler Township before his 125-year-old social club created an endowed scholarship with a $15,500 gift to the BC3 Education

Italian

D

Trombatt

development

and Trombatt, president.

The Italian Society of Butler County raises funds from the sale of rip tickets, Palombo and Trombatt said Officers discuss which organizations will receive 60 percent of the revenue from sales

“BC3,” Trombatt said, “provides for everybody in the county. Whenever we started talking about who we could give it to, it really hit with a lot of the guys with BC3’s nursing and criminology. Everyone said, ‘Those people are protecting us and saving our lives.’ So everybody said, ‘That’s what we want to do.’

“A lot of the graduates do stay in the local area and provide their services for the people who helped with their education and who live in the community.”

The BC3 Education Foundation was established in 1985 as a charitable organization that acquires and manages private funds for the benefit of BC3 The foundation administers scholarships created by businesses, college alumni and employees, fraternal and other nonprofit organizations, and private individuals.

BC

Its number of scholarships has increased 12 percent in the past five years.

Dan Palombo, right, a trustee with the Italian Society of Butler County, is shown Thursday, May 21, 2026, in an office on Butler County Community College’s main campus in Butler Township before his 125-year-old social club created an endowed scholarship with a $15,500 gift to the foundation From left, Mikayla Moretti, Bobbi Jo Cornetti, Jason Delano, James Lascuola, Chris Lascuola and

J

Moretti is the executive director of the BC3 Education Foundation and external relations and Cornetti is the foundation’s scholarship and

coordinator Delano is vice president of the Italian Society of Butler County; James Lascuola is secretary; Chris Lascuola is treasurer

“We are the community’s college,” Cornetti said “Scholarships give back to BC3 and to the community and invest in students. Organizations like the Italian Society of Butler County want to give back to the community. They want to help.”

Heaton Scholarship, Others to Debut

The Leanne Heaton scholarship was established through a legacy gift from her estate. She and her father, the late Robert R. Heaton, were longtime supporters of BC3.

Robert R Heaton in 2014 became the first of seven individuals or organizations to contribute at least $1 million to the BC3 Education Foundation. His gift helped to fund the Heaton Family Learning Commons, an academic and community library that opened on the college’s main campus in August 2016.

The Musko scholarship is intended to support students in accounting or business programs; the Cooper award, for students in health care programs; the American Legion Riders scholarship, to an honorably discharged U S veteran; and the Project Pink award, to a student who survived cancer or who has cared for another battling the disease.

The Muskos said they established the scholarship in part to recognize former BC3 President Dr. Nick Neupauer for his friendship and outstanding contributions to the college and to the community.

Cooper created the financial award in honor of his wife, whom he said dedicated her life to a career in nursing Cooper, who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and graduated from BC3 in 1972, said he credits BC3’s veterans services for helping him to transition from military life into a successful college experience.

Members of the Legion Riders said they established their scholarship to recognize student-veterans for their dedication and patriotism to the United States

Butler County Community College students and Butler residents Cullen Tritt, left, and Madison Briere, are shown Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, during a Project Pink campaign event on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township Melissa Philson, a BC3 psychology professor and breastcancer survivor, matched contributions up to a total of $500 in October to create the BC3 Project Pink for Hope Scholarship, which debuts this fall.

Melissa Philson, a Butler County Community College psychology professor and breast-cancer survivor, is shown Wednesday, Oct 29, 2025, during a Project Pink campaign event on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township Philson matched contributions up to a total of $500 in October to create the BC3 Project Pink for Hope Scholarship, which debuts this fall.

Melissa Philson, a breast cancer survivor, Greenville resident and BC3 professor, created the Project Pink award because, she said, she is deeply committed to helping others who have been affected by cancer to continue their education. Philson matched contributions up to a total of $500 in October to launch the scholarship, which will be funded in part by the Project Pink campaign organized annually by BC3’s social awareness club

Tuition and fees for Butler County residents pursuing 15 credits per semester in 2026-2027 for in-person courses at BC3 are expected to cost $3,165; and for residents of Pennsylvania counties other than Butler, $4,710.

Tuition and fees for Pennsylvanians pursuing 15 credits per semester in 2025-2026 at regional four-year state universities ranged from $5,453 04 to $6,037 50; and for state-related universities, from $6,784 to $11,368

Butler County residents seeking 15 credits each semester in 2026-2027 can receive up to an estimated $10,453 in federal and state grants, according to Juli Louttit, BC3’s director of student financial services.

Residents of Pennsylvania counties other than Butler seeking 15 credits each semester in 20262027 can receive up to an estimated $12,289 in federal and state grants.

A member of the American Legion Riders Chapter 778, Lyndora, is

July 1, 2024, on Butler County Community College’s main campus in

after presenting a check to the BC3 Education Foundation to create a scholarship for BC3’s student-veterans The American Legion Riders Lyndora Chapter 778 Veterans Scholarship has reached endowment status and will debut this fall

shown Monday,

Butler Township

Leanne Heaton, left, and her father, Robert R Heaton, are shown Monday, Oct 14, 2019, with their Ford Thunderbirds outside the Heaton Family Learning Commons on Butler County Community College’s main campus in Butler Township Robert R Heaton passed away in 2021 and his daughter, in 2023 The Leanne Heaton Memorial Scholarship will debut this fall.

Member News

STEP Award for Kiley Critchlow

It is with great pleasure the PA CareerLink® Butler County nominate Kiley Critchlow for the STEP Award. Kiley’s journey reflects exceptional determination, resilience, and a strong commitment to achieving long-term self-sufficiency. Her rapid progress and outstanding accomplishments make her a truly deserving candidate for this recognition. Please pay attention to this very short timeline, with very big results.

Kiley first connected with the PA CareerLink’s Title I program, Career TRACK in September 2025 and officially enrolled on October 31, 2025. She actively participated in WRAP sessions, engaged in job searching, and secured employment with the PA CareerLink as a youth worker in the Career Resource Center on December 11, 2025. At the end of the day on December 11th, all we had to say was WOW! She is going to go places! We need to keep her! What a great first impression!!

Kiley asked questions, wasn’t shying away from suggestions and by January 5, 2026, Kiley was also working with EARN and of course the case manager with EARN states “Kiley’s progress has been remarkable!” Since enrolling in January, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to achieving her goals. At the time of enrollment, she was participating in the Career TRACK Youth Paid Work Experience Program and exploring career options in administrative or service-oriented roles. Through consistent engagement with PA CareerLink® services, she built valuable skills and developed a clear path forward.

Kiley achieved several significant milestones within just three months On March 1, 2026, she secured permanent housing for herself and her daughter without subsidies, reflecting her determination to establish stability and independence. By March 30, 2026, she obtained full-time employment as a Career Advisor at the Career TRACK office a role that aligns with her long-term career goals and provides meaningful professional growth. By June 1, 2026, she was successfully managing a full caseload an impressive milestone in such a short timeframe. She has already made contact with the PA CareerLink for another youth worker to replace her at the PA CareerLink and the youth worker started two weeks ago!

In addition, Kiley addressed transportation barriers by obtaining assistance to have her vehicle inspected, ensuring reliable access to work and supporting her ongoing progress. Kiley’s success is a testament to her resilience, her commitment to personal and professional development, and her ability to fully utilize the resources available to her through EARN, PA CareerLink®, and community partnerships. She not only met but exceeded expectations, emerging as a model of what can be achieved through dedication and persistence.

Now that you paid attention to Kiley’s short journey wit big results……..how long was her journey, starting wit enrollment until she was full time employed wit permanent housing? FIVE MONTHS!! Way to go Kiley Your journey serves as an inspiration to others participatin in workforce development programs, demonstrating tha with determination and consistent effort, long-term stability and self-sufficiency are attainable.

For these reasons, we are honored to nominate Kiley Critchlow for the STEP Award. Her accomplishments truly embody the spirit and purpose of this recognition. strong work ethic and dedication soon led to her being hired by Career TRACK on March 30, 2026. And Kiley…..Nala is so proud of her mommy.

-

Phil Tack, 1st Vice-Chair TCWIB Board of Directors (left) and Kiley Critchlow, STEPP Award Winner – June 2026 (right)

From left to right: Karen Diem, VP Butler Career TRACK, Inc ; Adina Luppe, Site Administrator, PA CareerLink Butler County; Kiley Critchlow, Award Winner; Barbara Calvert, Career Advisor, Butler County Career TRACK, Inc.

Member News Congratulations Lynne Nincke; PASBDC State Star Award Winner

Congratulations to Lynne Nincke, our 2026 State Star award winner! The State Star award recognizes outstanding individuals within the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Centers network who demonstrate exceptional performance, leadership, and impact in supporting small businesses across the Commonwealth. It is the highest individual recognition an employee can receive.

In fiscal year 2025, Lynne demonstrated remarkable achievement across every aspect of her role at the University of Pittsburgh SBDC. She supported 238 clients and delivered 1,500 hours of consulting services. Her work also exceeded capital infusion goals, by facilitating more than $9.2 million in deals across 34 transactions.

Beyond her client work, Lynne is a valued leader and team player within the Pittsburgh SBDC. She supports colleagues through cross-training, reviewing financial projections, sharing best practices, and is always eager to step in and volunteer on new initiatives for the Center. She also manages a team of student workers, networks with business plan reviewers, and helps advance deliverables for the Center of Excellence in Digital Marketing.

“Lynne’s expertise, professionalism, and collaborative approach make her an incredible asset to the PASBDC network. She consistently goes above and beyond to support both her colleagues and small business clients across the state, particularly through her work on SEO reports. What sets her apart is not just the quality of her insights, but her ability to translate complex information into clear, practical guidance that clients can understand and implement Her work strengthens both our internal capacity and the real-world impact we deliver to small businesses.” Lisa Hall Zielinski, Director, The University of Scranton SBDC

Lynne is a major contributor to the statewide Pennsylvania SBDC network as a collaborator in the Digital Marketing Center of Excellence (CoE). Through the CoE, she helps businesses strengthen their online presence by providing SEO reports and social media audits to clients across Pennsylvania. She facilitates indepth review meetings with fellow consultants and their clients to discuss findings, clarify recommendations, and identify actionable next steps. Her colleagues consistently value this hands-on collaboration.

In FY25, Lynne and her student team delivered:

277 comprehensive SEO reports

137 social media audits

101 collaborative review meetings with consultants and clients statewide

Because of her exceptional client impact, leadership, and meaningful contributions to both the Pittsburgh SBDC and the statewide Pennsylvania SBDC network, Lynne is the State Star award winner. Congratulations, Lynne! Thank you for all you do for our network and for small businesses across PA!

Your Monthly Butler County Fun Fact

A Close Call for George Washington Did you know?

Long before Butler County was established, the region was home to several Native American nations, including the Seneca, Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Tuscarora of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy). Their presence helped shape the area ' s early history and the network of trails used by explorers and settlers.

One of those travelers was 21-year-old George Washington. On December 27, 1753, while passing through present-day Butler County on a diplomatic mission, Washington narrowly escaped death when a Native guide allied with the French shot at him from close range and missed. Washington and his companion, Christopher Gist, disarmed the guide and continued their journey, a remarkable moment that historians often note could have changed the course of American history.

Business Resources

We provide free and confidential one-on-one business counseling by phone, email, and in-person in Southwestern Pittsburgh. We also conduct workshops for both start-up entrepreneurs and seasoned small business owners.

Contact Score

The mission of the Small Business Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh is to grow Western Pennsylvania’s economy by providing entrepreneurs with the education, information, and tools needed to build successful businesses.

Contact SBDC

Bloom Butler County is here for you! Get started on your business today. Find everything you need by scanning the QR code!

Grow Your Business with a Butler County Chamber of Commerce Membership

Since 1896, the Butler County Chamber of Commerce has been a trusted partner for businesses throughout our community. We connect business owners with opportunities, relationships, and resources that help them grow and succeed. When the Chamber promotes your business, it carries the credibility of an organization that has earned the trust of Butler County for more than a century.

Why Join?

Increase Your Visibility: Get your business noticed through Chamber marketing, events, and promotions.

Build Valuable Connections: Cultivate relationships with business leaders, elected officials, nonprofits, educators, and community partners.

Trusted Community Reputation: Gain credibility by aligning your business with one of the region's most respected organizations. Expand Your Network: Meet potential customers, partners, and referral sources.

Business Growth Support : Access resources, guidance, and opportunities designed to help your business succeed.

Be Part of Something Bigger: Join an organization dedicated to strengthening Butler County's business community and economic future.