Aug. 15, 2025 --Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan today met with students in Johnson College’s RISE (Readiness in Skilled Employment) Program. The college received $75,000 in job creation funding from the Lackawanna County Department of Planning and Economic Development to expand the transformative program. The funding will allow seven additional students, who were previously on a waiting list, to enroll in the program’s fifth cohort during the 2025-26 academic year. Funds will be used to cover tuition and basic needs.

RISE is a comprehensive workforce development program that serves residents of Lackawanna and Luzerne counties by providing access to technical training and vital support services. The program is designed to eliminate barriers — such as transportation, childcare, housing and food insecurity — that often prevent individuals from starting or completing their education.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Lackawanna County commissioners for their ongoing commitment to education and workforce development,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College. “This funding expands access to higher education and extends life-changing opportunities to even more students in our region.”

RISE was launched in 2021 through a partnership between Johnson College, the Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development, United Neighborhood Centers, and the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund. Over the past four years, 75 students have participated in the program, training for high-demand careers as medical assistants, welders, property maintenance technicians and computer support specialists.

Pictured are, from left, Karen Baker, Johnson College Senior Director of Grants and Foundation Relations; Dr. Katie Pittelli, Johnson College President & CEO; Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan; and Kellyn Williams, Johnson College Associate Vice President of Special Programs.