Celebrating Our Centers: Northumberland Regional Center

At Luzerne County Community College's Pittston Center, student support extends far beyond the classroom-and sometimes, it has four legs and a wagging tail.*

Since Spring 2024, the Pittston Center has welcomed monthly visits from Compassionate Canine Therapy Dogs, a tradition that quickly became one of the center's most loved student activities. Director Samantha Patterson-LaMark says the idea grew naturally from the center's commitment to creating a welcoming, home-like environment where students can manage stress and feel supported.

"We began our monthly therapy dog visits at the start of the Spring 2024 semester," she explains. "At the time, we were expanding student activities at the Pittston Center with the goal of creating a comfortable, home-like environment-one that helps reduce the anxiety and stress that can come with starting a new semester, taking exams, navigating a new space, or simply managing a long day."

Over the years, the Pittston Center has offered everything from yoga and sound therapy sessions through the YMCA Well-Being Initiative to daily creative outlets like painting and crafting. Students gather for theme nights, unwind in the lounge, or settle into the designated relaxation room during exam weeks. But through all of these offerings, Samantha says one thing remains constant: "Our therapy dog visits continue to be a consistent and beloved source of comfort and joy."

A Student Favorite-Even After Graduation

According to Samantha, the student response has been overwhelmingly positive.

"They absolutely love it!" she says. "We even have students who have graduated or are taking classes at the Main Campus return to Pittston to see the dogs. Many students return every month if their schedule allows, and a new person always pops in to meet the dogs for the first time."

The dogs bring an energy that instantly changes the atmosphere. "Compassionate Canine Therapy dogs bring a warm, friendly energy that puts everyone here at ease," Samantha explains. "They make it easier for students to connect, both with the dogs and with each other, which naturally builds a sense of community."

Promoting Wellness, One Wag at a Time

The therapy dogs don't just bring smiles-they help students stay emotionally grounded. Their presence "lightens the mood, breaks down barriers, and gives everyone a much-needed mental break so they can reset and feel a little more grounded," Samantha says.

The impact is felt across the entire center. "Whether an early college student arrives after a long day at school or another student comes straight from a full shift to take an exam, the dogs infuse the space with positivity almost instantlyâ??for our students, instructors, front desk staff, advising team, and security alike."

By encouraging genuine interactions, the visits help students build friendships and feel more connected to the campus community. "The dogs break down barriers, spark conversation, and create a sense of community that continues to grow and carry through each semester," Samantha adds.

Supporting the Whole Student

At the heart of these monthly visits is a message the Pittston Center wants every student to feel deeply: they matter.

"We want our students to genuinely feel how deeply we care about them, not just as learners or students here, but as whole people," Samantha says. "Their well-being, their feelings, and their lives outside the classroom matter just as much to us as their academics."

She notes that the staff sees how much students balance dailyâ??jobs, families, schoolwork, commutes. "Itâ??s inspiring, truly, but we know it can also be exhausting and stressful," she says. "Thatâ??s why we're constantly committed to supporting the whole person, offering whatever comfort, encouragement, or ease we can as they pursue their goals. Weâ??re here for them, fully and wholeheartedly."

Welcome to the Pittston Center

Located in a building donated by M&T Bank in 2017, the Pittston Center is an important part of downtown Pittston's revitalization-offering affordable, accessible higher education and contributing to the area's economic development.

The modern Main Street facility features:

Two computer labs with printers

A science lab

A welcoming lobby with vending options

Early College opportunities for high school students

Visiting student enrollment

Day and evening classes, both in-person and online

Students can complete General Education requirements or pursue coursework toward programs such as:

A.S. Biology

A.A.S. Business Management

A.A.S. Computer Information Systems

A.A.S. Criminal Justice

A.A.S. Early Childhood Education

A.A.S. Emergency Medical Services

A.S. General Studies

A.A.S. Nursing

A.S. Psychology

A.A.S. Respiratory Therapy

A.A.S. Surgical Technology

Student Support, Services, and Community Engagement

Pittston Center staff proudly assist students with:

Registering for courses

Applying for admission

Academic advising

Placement testing

Parking permits and student IDs

Tutoring

Accessing assistance and support programs

The center also serves as a community hub, offering:

Continuing education programs (pharmacy tech, phlebotomy, CPR, computer skills, photography, and more)

YMCA programs including Sound & Healing and Balanced Energy

A free food and clothing pantry

Book club events with Pittston Library

Student Activitiesâ??Supporting Students Year-Round

In addition to monthly therapy dog visits, students enjoy:

Student discounts to local businesses

Bingo, trivia, scavenger hunts

Holiday celebrations and decorating contests

Coffee & doughnut days

Gift card raffles

Career fairs

Community service drives and parade participation

Visits from transfer college admissions representatives

The center also hosts summer orientations and open houses, helping incoming students feel at home from day one.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Let us help you reach your educational goals.

Call the Pittston Center at (570) 740-0270 or 1-800-377-5222, ext. 7270.