2020-2021
COMMUNITY REPORT
01 President’s Message 03 Board of Trustees 04 Year in Review
TABLE OF CONTENTS
12 College Partnerships 14 Athletic Achievements 16 In The Community 22 Awards & Honors 26 College Foundation 28 Financials 29 Locations
MISSION STATEMENT
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College provides its students with affordable opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their work, in their day-to-day lives, and in their pursuit of lifelong learning in a supportive, student-oriented environment.
VISION
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College will be a dominant higher education provider in west central Pennsylvania – a catalyst for regional renewal – positioning our graduates to be recognized as highly competent, exceptional members of the community and workforce.
CORE VALUES
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College strives to be a community of learners where every student, employee, and community member is respected and supported. The College is deeply committed to the following values:
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Student Success Quality and Accountability Integrity and Ethics Collaboration and Collegiality Responsiveness to Diverse and Changing Community Needs
MESSAGE FROM DR. STEVE NUNEZ These “Reports to the Community” are an important reflection piece for the community college. It is a reminder of the great work that is being done, the challenges that were overcome and that lay ahead, and the tremendous support we have from the residents of our communities, our County Commissioners, and members of the Board of Trustees and Foundation Board. It is also a time to remember the community college mission, which is to provide accessible, affordable, and quality education to the citizens of Pennsylvania. If I, if we, stay focused on that mission, then we can continue to expect good things. Certainly, COVID-19 (“the global pandemic”) provided our biggest challenge as an institution of higher education. I am extremely proud of our employees and students as they persevered during these most difficult times. As mentioned in last year’s Report to the Community, “You learn a lot about an organization, about a team, when under a crisis. I can tell you this, the work that was done to deal with COVID-19 was difficult, but we pulled together as one family, found new efficiencies, learned innovative technology, and became more adept at working and teaching remotely.” I’m not sure I can say it better than that. I’m one proud President. We have many things to be proud of this year. Despite the challenges of 2020-2021, the College moved forward with its mission and made great strides. We held an in-person and virtual commencement ceremony where we saw over 300 students become college graduates. Many of these graduates may not have had an opportunity to attend college and earn a college credential if it wasn’t for Penn Highlands being in their backyard. The “college with no walls” is no more when we purchased the Richland Campus (167,000 square feet and 15 acres of property) from the Richland School District. I am thrilled that we control our own destiny and that we have a permanent home in Richland that provides easy access
for so many of our students. The Board of Trustees was integral to the negotiation process and the purchase wouldn’t have happened without them. Our Ebensburg Center was “right-sized” and remodeled. We have beautiful new outside signage that reflects the awesome renovations found inside. We’ve continued to expand our partnerships with local businesses and with institutions of higher education. Our university friends have been receptive to new and favorable articulation agreements for our students. Local business and industry have welcomed opportunities for expanded partnerships. Penn Highlands cannot complete its mission without these beneficial collaborations. I’ve always been a fan and a supporter of athletics. I think that is a great way to expand enrollment, but I also believe in the intangibles that being an athlete can bring. Having two sons who played college football taught me that athletics teaches valuable lessons about teamwork, sacrifice, grit, patience, and school pride – to name a few. We have expanded our athletic offerings at Penn Highlands this year to include eSports, softball, and golf. Go Black Bears! Our College Foundation continues to evolve and grow. They have landed on a major fundraising campaign that can be transformative to the College and to our community. More to come in 2021-2022. As I sign off, I’d like to once again thank our community, the Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board of Directors, and the County Commissioners for their continued support. And last but certainly not least, a thank you to all Penn Highlands employees who make all of this happen; we can’t achieve our mission without you.
Dr. Steve Nunez, President
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
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By the numbers
AVERAGE AGE: 24 | HEADCOUNT: 1,910 | GRADUATES: 345 These numbers do not reflect Dual Enrollment or Associate in High School students. 1,375 high school students took courses for college credit via Dual Enrollment and Associate in High School programs.
47% PT
FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME
53% FT
66% FEMALE | 34% MALE 10%
35% OF OUR STUDENTS ARE
FIRST GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS
OF OUR STUDENT POPULATION ARE MINORITIES.
ADDITIONAL FACTS Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has served more than 60,000 students from Pennsylvania and beyond since the College opened. 215 high school students concurrently earned associate degrees since 2014, saving those students more than $2,000,000 in tuition. Since 2013, students have earned 2,540 associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas at Penn Highlands. Students who began their education at Penn Highlands and successfully transferred have earned 4,584 bachelor’s degrees, 1,107 master’s degrees, and 32 Juris Doctor degrees.
OUR STUDENTS REPRESENT
43 PA COUNTIES & 9 STATES
82 students have become doctors in various healthcare fields since 2013.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MESSAGE Pennsylvania Highlands Community College has proudly served west central Pennsylvania for over 26 years. During that time, the College has served thousands of students and seen multitudes graduate with degrees and certificates. The Board of Trustees continue to be proud of the work and the accomplishments of the students and the employees who work at the College. I continue to be pleased with the direction of the College. This year saw the College purchase the Richland Campus – something that had been discussed for many years. The Ebensburg Center was remodeled and now has a more modern look – both inside and out. The Blair Center continues to have strong enrollment. The new Juniata College partnership will only elevate the College in Huntingdon County. And, the Somerset Center continues to recruit a significant number of students. The College’s Foundation, led by Board President Dave Mordan, has a clear focus and plan moving forward.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES2020-2021 Gregory Winger (Chairperson) Dr. Janet Grady (Vice Chairperson) Carl D. DeYulis (Secretary / Treasurer) James Foreman (Public Relations Officer) Alan Cashaw (At-Large) John Augustine Edwin Bowser Tyson Cook James Foster Carissa Itle Westrick Jacqueline Kulback Marc McCall Dr. Kathleen O’Rourke Mike Puruczky Linda Thomson Elizabeth Ruszkoski (Student Trustee)
Expect a major fundraising campaign to begin in a few years that will benefit the College, but more importantly benefit the College’s surrounding communities. The excitement and enthusiasm from the Board of Directors – now 14 members strong – continues to attract new Board members to the Foundation – welcome Michael Lynch of AmeriServ Financial. Jack Cavanaugh, a former Trustee, was awarded Trustee Emeritus in 2021 for his outstanding accomplishments as Trustee and community leader. The College certainly advanced its mission under the visionary leadership of Jack and other Trustees he served with. Congratulations to Jack for being named the College’s first Trustee Emeritus. I’d like to also thank my fellow Trustees on the Penn Highlands Board, the Foundation Board of Directors, the members of the advisory councils for the academic locations and programs, and the county Commissioners all who fully support the College and its mission. Certainly the 2020-2021 year was challenging for our country and local communities, including Penn Highlands. But, I appreciate the work of the College’s employees – they have stayed positive and focused on the College’s mission throughout. Finally, I would like to recognize our 2021 graduates and their families who supported them in their journey. Over 350 students earned degrees or certificates which will allow them to transfer to universities, earn a bachelor’s degree, or enter the workforce. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, my thanks to the graduates, their families, and to the faculty and staff of Penn Highlands Community College.
Gregory Winger, Board Chairperson
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Scan to watch our 2021 Commencement ceremonies.
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year in review
YEAR IN REVIEW
STUDENT SERVICES Over the year, Penn Highlands Community College made several changes related to our inability to be face-to-face with students. Recruiting efforts involved mostly ZOOM opportunities. A benefit of this was that we could schedule evening ZOOM sessions which could then involve parents/supporters. We were able to provide student placement testing and student advising virtually. We conducted some group advising virtually as well. Open house events and academic planning were limited to a certain number of students, which allowed for a more personal experience. We became creative once we were permitted to have limited numbers of students in the building by scheduling events during high school days off.
covid-19 response
Penn Highlands centralized the processing of student applications, thereby allowing staff to engage more often and directly with students rather than spending time processing paperwork during the pandemic. All will be incorporated into our on-going strategies to serve potential and current students as we received positive feedback on all. ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Penn Highlands converted many classes to a remote format for the Fall 2020 semester. These classes were offered at specific times, but ZOOM technology provided a remote environment as faculty and students were not in the same location. ZOOM allowed instructors to present content and classwork throughout the pandemic with ease, providing a safe, no-contact environment for those who needed to remain socially distant. The College also offered traditional face-to-face classes and online (asynchronous) classes. This allowed all students to partake in a learning environment that met their preferred style and safety needs. In November 2020, with COVID-19 cases rising, the College decided that all face-to-face classes would become remote for the remainder of the semester, allowing students to complete the semester without having to choose between their health and their education. The Spring 2021 semester started with all classes in a remote format; however, with the vaccine roll-out and cases decreasing, many classes returned to the traditional face-to-face format. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY / FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION To better navigate through the pandemic, Penn Highlands enhanced its technology and communication capabilities by implementing a new cloud phone system (RingCentral), a digital signing system (PandaDocs), and installing new ZOOM equipment in the classrooms for remote learning. All of this was done in addition to the new mobile app that was unveiled in the Fall 2020 semester.
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COLLEGE PURCHASES THE RICHLAND CAMPUS Pennsylvania Highlands Community College became the official owners of its first building: the Richland Campus facility located at 101 Community College Way in Johnstown, PA. As of April 29, 2021, this facility is now the College’s first and only owned property. The Richland facility has been considered the main campus of Penn Highlands Community College since the lease began in 2007. The facility houses 101 employees and an annual average of 1,390 part-time and full-time students. The finalized sale of the main campus building includes approximately 15 acres of property from the Richland School District for $6,000,000. The additional acreage purchase will allow Penn Highlands to expand the facility To help the College stay connected in today’s ever-changing and incorporate any future programming, if needed. world, Penn Highlands Community College launched the myPEAK mobile app for students, faculty, and staff.
MOBILE APP UNVEILED
The myPEAK mobile app provides quick and convenient access to student services, email, student learning system, and the self-service portal for class registration, grades, bill payments, and more. College President Dr. Steve Nunez (left) and Vice President of Finance and Administration Lorraine Donahue (right) sign the Richland Campus purchase agreement.
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YEAR IN REVIEW
The mobile app is a robust tool that continues to evolve and grow with the College.
facility renovations
EBENSBURG CENTER Renovations at the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Ebensburg Center include changes that “right-sized” the facility to create a more useable, inclusive workspace better equipped to ensure future success for students. These changes include a new student lounge, a work room for Education students to create their projects, and a new crime scene lab for Criminal Justice students. This major update also included new outdoor signage, providing a visible and vibrant display to those traveling on Route 22, and new furnishings throughout the facility. CENTRAL PARK CENTER Our Central Park Center in downtown Johnstown reopened in early 2021 after it closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent upgrades include modernized window signage that promote the Colleges many services. The Central Park Center serves as a drop-in location designed to improve access to educational programming. It includes services related to applications, testing, career planning, and workforce development. This location also features a Career Closet, which offers a limited supply of gently used interview attire free of charge for students.
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HONORS PROGRAM UNVEILED Pennsylvania Highlands Community College continued its commitment to academic excellence with the introduction of its Honors Program. The Honors Program allows students to explore cultural and societal issues through new, distinct, and challenging academic programming opportunities. Students will encounter enhanced experiential learning, seminars, interdisciplinary research, and community-engaged service projects. Honors students’ classes employ a collaborative and cross-disciplinary research approach. These courses fulfill core and major requirements across a variety of academic majors. Additionally, students will be challenged to think creatively and critically both inside and outside of the traditional classroom. “The Honors Program provides students with an academic experience enriched by working with faculty on projects that are of interest universally across all settings,” stated Robert Farinelli, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Penn Highlands Community College. The Honors Program is a testament to the quality and strong educational foundation Penn Highlands offers students throughout the region. This new distinction allows Penn Highlands to recognize and expand opportunities for the highest achieving students. Penn Highlands believes the new designation will add prestige to existing degrees, while enhancing current programming to create motivated life-long learners.
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Scan for full details on the Honors Program. PENNHIGHLANDS.EDU/HONORS
The objective of the Supporting Learning Communities grant is to provide individuals with resources to access education programs, leading to careers that pay family sustaining wages and offer opportunities for career advancement. “This grant program will help make a long-term impact on local individuals, families, and the region’s economy,” stated Debi Balog, Director of Workforce Development at JARI. “Building up our current and future workforce, that’s the vision for this program.” WEDNETPA PROGRAM The Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA) was created to make companies across Pennsylvania more competitive locally, nationally, and internationally, by updating and improving the skills of their employees to meet specific company needs. WEDnetPA brings training funds to qualified companies across Pennsylvania through a network of community colleges, state system universities, and other educational institutions.
PHLEBOTOMY REDESIGN Workforce Development staff redesigned the 10-week Phlebotomy program to better align with national testing, leading to a stronger, more confident program and educational opportunity. In doing so, Penn Highlands maintained tuition costs while condensing program hours, leading to a needed boost in Workforce Development revenue. Penn Highlands hired new instructors and assistants at different levels so less experienced ones can learn from the more experienced professionals, creating a qualified and capable pool of individuals to teach. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM To best serve our communities, Pennsylvania Highlands Community College hosted a virtual Workforce Development Symposium in mid-May 2021. Over eighty (80) business, industry, and community leaders took part in a discussion on how Penn Highlands could best serve our region. Topics included technical training opportunities, soft skill training opportunities, customized short-term certificates and two-year degree programs that can quickly provide skilled labor, and mutually beneficial partnerships that are synergistic in nature and boost our overall effectiveness. Sheila Ireland, PA Deputy Secretary of Workforce Development, served as the keynote speaker.
Penn Highlands provided $24,347 in customized training through the WEDnetPA program. Our invoicing rate for 2020-2021 was 99%, which is exceeding standards. Screenshot: Workforce Development Symposium
workforce development
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, with support from JARI through the Supporting Learning Communities grant program, offered twelve (12) free training workshops to more than 300 participants. Various topics including communication, diversity, professional etiquette, computers, and more were covered.
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new hires & Promotions NEW HIRES Matthew Bodenschatz, Director of Recruiting and Admissions Robert Farinelli, Vice President of Academic Affairs Jeff Dick, Head Coach of Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Ashley Krinjeck, Director of Student Financial Services Adrianne Kuhar, Student Engagement Specialist Quan Britt, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Shannon Miller, Procurement Services Manager Mary Fleck, Student Services Coordinator, Blair Troy Bugosh, Visual Communication and Marketing Manager Matthew Gallagher, Network Administrator Derek Leach, Head Golf Coach Cory Shay, Head Softball Coach PROMOTIONS Rob Sekerak, Regional Center Director Landon Loya, Director, Somerset Center Steve Bender, Systems Administrator Rob Obetts, Application Support Analyst & Head eSports Coach
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YEAR IN REVIEW
Robert Farinelli Vice President of Academic Affairs Mr. Farinelli has over 30 years of experience in higher education. Prior to Penn Highlands, he was the Dean of Academic Affairs and Student Services at Three Rivers Community College in Norwich, CT. He also held the positions of Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, STEM Director, and Division Chair (Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering) at the College of Southern Maryland. He was also a Professor of Mathematics at the Community College of Allegheny County, in Pittsburgh, PA. Mr. Farinelli holds an M.S. in Education from Capella University, an M.A. in Mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh, and a B.S. in Mathematics from Penn State University.
black bear cafe under new management
The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Black Bear Cafe, located on our Richland Campus, is now under new management. Penn Highlands has partnered with A. Thomas Management Company (operator of the Thomahawk Deli & Grill in Davidsville, PA) to provide excellent dining for all students, faculty, staff, and guests.
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October 2020: Congressman Glenn Thompson hosted an agriculture roundtable centering on the challenges agricultural 2020-2021 producers were facing during COVID-19. This photo was taken as SECTION he toured the agriculture lab at our Richland Campus.
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college partnerships
JUNIATA COLLEGE Penn Highlands Community College and Juniata College signed a transfer agreement that includes a goal to admit at least ten (10) transfer students from Penn Highlands to Juniata College each year. Juniata College will provide Penn Highlands transfer students up to $28,000 per year via a merit-based scholarship. The signing of the updated college pathways program agreement supports Penn Highlands associate degree graduates in Business Administration, Liberal Arts & Sciences, or Psychology as they pursue their bachelor’s degree at Juniata College in one of four program pathways: Business, Communication, Environmental Science, or Psychology.
Scan to view all transfer agreements. PENNHIGHLANDS.EDU/TRANSFER
SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY Pennsylvania Highlands Community College and Saint Francis University’s Francis Worldwide recently expanded its articulation agreement to now include fourteen (14) 3+1 and three (3) 2+2 pathway options. Graduates of Penn Highlands receive a 25% tuition discount for Francis Worldwide programs and courses included in the agreement. The updated agreement expands on existing Penn Highlands educational pathways and allows students to complete up to ninety-eight (98) credits prior to transferring into a corresponding bachelor’s degree program offered by Francis Worldwide.
SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY Pennsylvania Highlands Community College and Southern New Hampshire University expanded an articulation agreement to now include eight (8) transfer pathway options. The most recent addition includes the transfer of credits from an associate degree in Social Work to a bachelor’s degree in Human Services. Graduates of Penn Highlands receive a 10% tuition discount for Southern New Hampshire University programs and courses included in the agreement. The updated agreement expands on options already in place. It allows graduates from Penn Highlands Community College to transfer up to ninety (90) credits into a corresponding bachelor’s degree program at Southern New Hampshire University.
UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT JOHNSTOWN Students interested in completing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown now benefit from an expanded transfer agreement between Pennsylvania Highlands Community College and the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Students at Penn Highlands can easily transfer into a number of programs now through this expanded 2+2 agreement. This means that Penn Highlands graduates can start as a junior at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown within twenty-nine (29) program pathways.
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athletic achievements
BOWLING Ian Schrift from Somerset claimed the Western Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference Men’s Singles Championship with a 672 series (212, 246, and 214).
CROSS COUNTRY Cody Sral and Trinity Krause both finished second in their respective divisions in the 1st Spring Cross Country Scrimmage sponsored by Westmoreland County Community College featuring both two and fouryear institutions.
ESPORTS GAMING Pennsylvania Highlands Community College launched its newest co-ed athletic program, Black Bear eSports Gaming, in January of 2021. Studentathletes will compete as members of the National Junior College Athletic Association eSports (NJCAAE). Esports, or electronic sports, is a form of competitive multiplayer video gaming in which teams compete against each other in single games or tournament events. Gaming at Penn Highlands follows the “play anywhere using your own device” model, allowing student-athletes unlimited access to top titles like League of Legends, Overwatch, Fortnite, Super Smash Brothers, Rocket League, FIFA 20, and more. Every semester, eSports at Pennsylvania Highlands will be able to compete for collegiate national titles and other countless events.
MEN’S BASKETBALL The Black Bears, a NJCAA Division III member, upset Division II Potomac State in overtime, and for the first-time in school history, in the Region 20 Semi-Finals.
Scan to see our Athletic offerings. PENNHIGHLANDS.EDU/ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS
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in the community
SUPPORTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS
Morgan Dugan, Assistant Professor, with help from students and alumni, organized the Break Away 5K Run/Walk that took place on October 3. This event raised awareness for domestic violence and supported the family of alumna Amanda Boring, who was tragically lost to domestic violence.
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EBENSBURG STUDENT ACTIVITIES CLUB HOSTS MLB® HOME RUN DERBY™
The Penn Highlands Community College Ebensburg Student Activity Club hosted a free Major League Baseball® Jr. Home Run Derby™ Competition for area youth in June 2021 at the Northern Cambria Middle School. The Major League Baseball® Jr. Home Run Derby™, powered by @MLBdevelops, is a fun and exciting youth competition for talented youngsters to showcase their hitting abilities, with the opportunity of competing at the Finals during the World Series™. The local champions from both age divisions advanced to the Regional Level for a chance to reach the Finals, which took place at the 2021 World Series™. The Ebensburg Student Activity Club also held a food drive in conjunction with this event. All proceeds benefitted The Hope Center in Carrolltown, PA.
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ANNUAL HALLOWEEN DISPLAY AND TRUNK OR TREAT
Penn Highlands Community College partnered with the Discover Downtown Johnstown Partnership to add some pizzazz around their annual Halloween display. Students Emma Tavalsky & Ashley Boyle did a great job painting windows for Halloween around Central Park in downtown Johnstown, and the Black Bear Ambassadors Club worked hard on an entry into the annual scarecrow competition. Then, Assistant Professor Morgan Dugan, along with our Education students, passed out candy to happy and excited kids during the Discover Downtown Johnstown Partnership’s Trunk or Treat.
Out & About in Fall PENN HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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IN THE COMMUNITY
VOLUNTEERING AT THE WINDBER AREA COMMUNITY KITCHEN In November, our students volunteered at the Windber Area Community Kitchen, helping everyone have access to a nice home cooked meal. Then, our Black Bear Ambassadors Club delivered food to the local Women’s Help Center for their Thanksgiving Dinner.
SOCKSGIVING Our Black Bear Ambassadors Club took part in Socksgiving by donating new socks for men, women, children, and infants to the Women’s Help Center and the Martha and Mary House.
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clubs and students do work
HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS STROLL Penn Highlands Community College participated in the Hometown Christmas Stroll by setting up a display outside of our Central Park Center.
HOLIDAY CARD DISTRIBUTION The Black Bear Ambassadors Club collected and distributed holiday cards to eleven (11) long-term care facilities throughout our region.
READ ACROSS AMERICA Our Early Childhood Education students got together to do a virtual reading of their favorite books. These videos were viewed by kindergarteners and first/second graders at Richland Elementary for Read Across America. The videos were also shared with other local school districts and daycares in Cambria, Somerset, and Centre counties.
LOCAL LITTER CLEAN-UP Our Caring for Cubs Club, along with faculty members Mary Ann McCurdy, Morgan Dugan, and Marie Polka, led efforts for a litter pick-up in spring of 2021. They worked to clean up local playgrounds and parks to make the environment a clean and safe place.
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HEALTHY KIDS RUNNING SERIES
Penn Highlands hosted Black Bears Day at Highland Regional Park as part of the Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS). HKRS provided a 5-week running series for ages 2-14, designed for kids to get active, feel accomplished, and start a healthier lifestyle.
In May 2021, children of all ages had a great time at the Penn Highlands Central Park Center during “The Science of Food” Remake Learning Days event. Participants learned all about food through hands-on activities; they even got to make their own ice cream!
THE SCIENCE OF FOOD IN THE COMMUNITY
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COMMENCEMENT & DISTINGUINSHED GRADUATE Pennsylvania Highlands celebrated its Twenty-Sixth Graduating Class with a two-day, in-person event. Both ceremonies recognized over 300 graduates and were live streamed to meet COVID-19 safety guidelines. Isabella Nagy (2021 Psychology Graduate) was honored with the Distinguished Graduate Award at our Student Recognition Ceremony. Ms. Nagy graduated with a degree in Psychology. The Distinguished Graduate honor is awarded to a student that has contributed their time and efforts to the College and their community while maintaining a high level of academic performance. PENNHIGHLANDS.EDU/COMMENCEMENT/
ISABELLA NAGY
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awards & honors
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
board of trustees academic scholarship
The Board of Trustees Academic Scholarship recipients receive a $1,000 scholarship to attend Pennsylvania Highlands Community College to complete an associate degree. (Images are left to right, top to bottom.) Ashley Bubenko of Windber, PA (Windber Area High School) Paul Buriak of Johnstown, PA (Conemaugh Valley High School) Katelynn Carter of Roaring Spring, PA (Home School) Tyler Charney of Hastings, PA (Cambria Heights High School) Payton Colson of New Florence, PA (United High School) Ariel Dospoy of Northern Cambria, PA (Northern Cambria High School) Noah Drumm of Altoona, PA (Altoona Area High School) Sydnee Miller of Northern Cambria, PA (Northern Cambria High School) Makayla Price of Cherry Tree, PA (Harmony Area High School) Erin Pyle of Somerset, PA (Rockwood Area High School) Haley Rhine of Nanty-Glo, PA (Blacklick Valley High School) Chloe Schiffel of Mount Union, PA (Mount Union High School) Lauren Sichko of Northern Cambria, PA (Bishop Carroll High School) Samuel Sottile of Carrolltown, PA (Cambria Heights High School) MaKala Stafford of Hastings, PA (Cambria Heights High School) Emma Tavalsky of Ebensburg, PA (Central Cambria High School)
AWARDS & HONORS
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STUDENTS NAMED COCA-COLA LEADERS OF PROMISE SCHOLARS Congratulations to Madison Piatak (Portage, PA) and Sydney Wells (Indiana, PA) for being named 2020 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholars. The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs.
MADISON PIATEK
FACULTY MEMBERS GRANTED ADVANCEMENT IN RANK AND TENURE Three faculty members were awarded Advancement in Rank during the 2020-2021 academic year: Dr. Richard Bukoski, Daniella Cope, and Marie Polka. In addition, Marie Polka was granted tenure. Faculty members are granted tenure for, over time, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in teaching, advising, professional development, and service to Penn Highlands and the community. Their work with students is exemplary and serves as an inspiration to students and colleagues alike.
DR. RICHARD BUKOSKI
Associate Professor, Communication & Media Studies
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DANIELLA COPE
Professor, Human Services
AWARDS & HONORS
MARIE POLKA
Associate Professor of Mathematics
SYDNEY WELLS
Congratulations to the Black Bear Ambassadors Club on being named the 2020-2021 Club of the Year. This club promotes Black Bear Pride and provides mentorship integrating alumni, students, and dual enrollment students.
EMERITUS STATUS AWARDED FOR FIRST TIME
John (Jack) Cavanaugh was honored with Penn Highlands Community College’s first-ever Emeritus status. This honor bestowed upon former Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Trustees in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Pennsylvania Highlands and the region.
DR. STEVE NUNEZ
The team earned awards in the following categories: Television/Video Advertisement (silver), Social Media or Online Marketing Campaign (silver), Postcard (bronze), and Video Shorts (bronze), Three out of the four awards presented to Penn Highlands Community College focused on key messaging and delivery methods during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This was a unique year due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Raymond Weible, Jr., Director of Marketing & Communications. “Our strategies and messaging had to shift on a dime to meet the needs of Penn Highlands Community College and the community. These awards are a testament to our ability to adapt and persevere while showing the strengths and purpose of Penn Highlands as a premier institution.” Since 2015, Marketing & Communications has won a total of twenty-two (22) NCMPR Medallion and Paragon Awards. These awards recognize excellence in the marketing, design, and public relations field at two-year colleges.
JOHN (JACK) CAVANAUGH
AWARDS & HONORS
marketing & Communications Team awarded four regional medallions
BLACK BEAR AMBASSADORS NAMED CLUB OF THE YEAR
The Marketing & Communications Team was awarded four (4) NCMPR Medallion Awards in 2020-2021 from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR).
GREG WINGER
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PENNSYLVANIA HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
foundation Thank you to the Johnstown, Ebensburg, Somerset, Altoona, and Huntingdon communities for being a part of the Penn Highlands Community College Foundation’s mission each year. Our mission is vital to the longevity and growth of Penn Highlands Community College and we couldn’t accomplish any of our goals without your continued community support.
Writing a fiscal review of the Foundation was a bit challenging this year, primarily because all of our fundraisers were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon further reflection, I realized that the pandemic, with its negatives, has allowed the Foundation to step back and prioritize our future goals. Without having to plan and implement multiple fundraisers, our Foundation Board used this past year wisely to strategically plan for future fundraisers, increase board recruitment, increase alumni membership, and develop a major fundraising initiative. As a result of our thoughtful planning, the Foundation has recruited three new amazing board members this past July, surpassed our employee annual giving campaign goal with creative incentive prizes, took a deep dive into our fundraising return on investments to see what has worked and what hasn’t worked in the past, and finally have become part of the Black Bear Ambassadors Club to recruit current students as future alumni. This new club was named Club of the Year for 2020-2021 as well! As you review our financials, you will see that we have made a concerted effort to connect with our donors while at the same time continue to work together as a community to ensure the success of our regional students and workforce. The information shared in this report includes data from the Penn Highlands Community College Foundation’s EVENT UPDATES & GIVING OPTIONS foundation.pennhighlands.edu LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE facebook.com/PennHighlandsFoundation
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FOUNDATION
fiscal year, July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021. On behalf of the Foundation, thank you for all of your donations; they really do make a difference in our student’s lives and the future of Penn Highlands Community College!
Kathleen Morrell, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement
David Mordan, President, Foundation Board of Directors
OUR FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS2020-2021 David Mordan (President) Jeff Stopko (Vice President) John Dubnasky (Secretary) Roberta Ream (Treasurer) Ellis Griffith John Kubinsky Tim Leventry John Polacek Ed Porada Jeffrey Wood Alan Cashaw (Ex-Officio Trustee) Jim Foreman (Ex-Officio Trustee) Lorraine Donahue (Ex-Officio) Dr. Steve Nunez (Ex-Officio) Kathy Morrell (Ex-Officio)
FOUNDATION AWARDS OVER $22,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDENTS The Penn Highlands Community College Foundation distributed over $22,000 in scholarship money to students for the 2020-2021 academic year. These scholarships, sponsored by numerous businesses and area philanthropists, are fostered and maintained by the College Foundation. Foundation scholarships are vital in supporting aid to students in need within our region. Lauren Sichko accepting her JRISA Scholarship Award. Left to right: Kathleen Morrell, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement; Lauren Sichko, JRISA Scholarship Award Recipient; and Dr. Kamal Gella, Gella LLC and JRISA Scholarship Donor.
SCAN AND GIVE TO THE FOUNDATION TODAY.
THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS
On behalf of the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Foundation, thank you to the following generous donors that continue to support our mission by sponsoring annual fundraising events or contributing to our annual campaign at a higher level. We are eternally grateful. BUSINESSES 1ST SUMMIT BANK Ameriserv Financial Concurrent Technologies Corporation Fend Foundation Slovenian Savings & Loan Somerset Trust Spruce Street Animal Shelter 0.08% Wessel & Company 2.6%
PATRONS Buddy DeYulis Jim Foreman Jim Foster Ellis Griffith Jackie Kulback Kathy O’Rourke Jeffrey Stopko Linda Thomson Anna Weitz Jeffrey Wood
0.2 %
10.5% 21.6%
2.0% 0.5% 6%
DOLLARS ALLOCATED
37.6%
56.8%
DOLLARS RAISED
36.7%
5.9% 19.6%
Scholarships ($34,012)
Athletics Donation ($1,563)
Professional Expenses ($12,923)
Foundation Outreach ($1,178)
Scholarship Contributions & Fees ($28,442)
Lee Grant - Avatar ($6,283)
Fundraiser Expenses ($284)
Annual Campaign ($27,785)
EITC Scholarships ($3,560)
Professional Development ($50)
Employee Giving ($14,799) EITC Donations ($4,450) Sponsorships ($150)
FOUNDATION
27
2020-2021
PENNSYLVANIA HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
financials 51.5%
(IN THOUSANDS)
OTHER NON-OPERATING REVENUES ($77) OTHER INCOME ($74)
45.9%
5.9%
13.3%
SALARIES & WAGES ($6,586) EMPLOYEE BENEFITS ($2,805)
(IN THOUSANDS)
GOVERNMENT GRANTS - CAPITAL ($107)
1.0% 1.3% 3.4%
9.6%
REVENUE
0.7%
COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS ($1,365)
0.5%
GOVERNMENT GRANTS ($1,699)
0.5%
11.6%
STATE APPROPRIATIONS ($3,768)
9.3%
25.8%
EXPENSES
STUDENT TUITION & FEES - NET ($7,538)
LEASES & DEPRECIATION ($1,916) SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT REPAIRS ($1,916)
15,305
19.5% OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES ($853) PROFESSIONAL & PURCHASED SERVICES ($488) UTILITIES ($187) ADVERTISING ($149)
CREDIT HOURS BY SITE
14,561
Richland Campus / Other Online Blair Center Ebensburg Center
2,154 1,963
2020-2021
28
FINANCIALS
Somerset Center
918
398
Huntingdon Center
PENNSYLVANIA HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
locations
RICHLAND CAMPUS
101 Community College Way, Johnstown, PA 15904 814.262.6400 admissions@pennhighlands.edu
BLAIR CENTER
5580 Goods Lane (Logan Valley Mall), Altoona, PA 16602 814.201.2700 blair@pennhighlands.edu
CENTRAL PARK CENTER
425 Main Street, 1st Floor, Johnstown, PA 15901 814.254.4888 centralpark@pennhighlands.edu
EBENSBURG CENTER
881 Hills Plaza Drive, Suite 450, Ebensburg, PA 15931 814.471.0010 ebensburg@pennhighlands.edu
HUNTINGDON CENTER
6311 Margy Drive, Huntingdon, PA 16652 814.643.6200 huntingdon@pennhighlands.edu
SOMERSET CENTER
6024 Glades Pike, Suite 210, Somerset, PA 15501 814.443.2500 somerset@pennhighlands.edu
LOCATIONS
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2020-2021
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