President John Yudichak to Preside Over First Commencement as Luzerne County Community College's Eighth President
Ceremony Set for May 29 at Mohegan Arena, Marks a Year of Innovation and Regional Progress
When Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) hosts its 56th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 29 at 6 p.m. at Mohegan Arena, the moment will be a milestone not only for the hundreds of graduating students, but also for President John Yudichak - his first commencement as the College's new leader.*
Appointed as LCCC's eighth president on July 1, 2024, President Yudichak brought decades of public service, educational advocacy, and regional development experience to the institution he has long supported. A former Pennsylvania State Senator and longtime advocate for northeastern Pennsylvania, President Yudichak has quickly transformed his commitment into action during his first year at the helm of the region's largest and most accessible institution of higher learning.
A Vision of Opportunity and Regional Growth
Under President Yudichak's leadership, LCCC has launched a series of innovative partnerships designed to make higher education more affordable, accessible, and aligned with the workforce needs of northeastern Pennsylvania.
"Luzerne County Community College is more than a college--it is a lifeline to opportunity for so many in our communities," said President Yudichak. "Our mission is to ensure every student can go here, graduate here, and work here, right in their own backyard."
That mission has taken concrete form in the College's new articulation agreements with all 10 universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Spearheaded under the framework of Act 69 of 2024, these agreements guarantee LCCC graduates junior status at PASSHE institutions?dramatically reducing tuition costs and simplifying transfers.
In tandem, LCCC also expanded its Regional Articulation Agreements with local private colleges such as King's College, Misericordia University, and Wilkes University, opening new and flexible pathways for students to earn bachelor's and graduate degrees without leaving the region.
Tackling Workforce Gaps with Local Partnerships
Recognizing a critical regional labor shortage--especially in skilled trades and technology--President Yudichak has prioritized new partnerships with career and technical high schools. Through collaborations with the Hazleton Area Career Center, West Side CTC, and Wilkes-Barre Area CTC, LCCC now offers over 2,000 high school students a head start on trade certifications and college credits in high-demand fields.
A standout initiative is the launch of micro-credential certification programs tailored to urgent workforce needs, including a pioneering certificate in AI in Manufacturing.
LCCC has also taken strides in supporting students beyond academics. The AllOne Recovery Educational Institute (AREI), with support from Luzerne County Council and the AllOne Foundation, provides educational pathways for students in recovery from substance use disorders. Since its launch, AREI has already supported nearly 250 students.
Historic Education Partnership in Hazleton
Perhaps the most transformative highlight of Yudichak's first year came on May 1, when he announced a groundbreaking educational partnership between LCCC, Commonwealth University, and the Hazleton Area School District (HASD). This first-of-its-kind collaboration enables local students to earn a bachelor's degree in education for less than $29,000--an affordable alternative to the skyrocketing costs at many private institutions.
"For the first time in our history," said Yudichak during the announcement, "students can earn their degrees locally and contribute to our community by filling vital educational roles within the Hazleton Area School District."
The initiative is already being hailed as a model solution to Pennsylvania's growing teacher shortage.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
President Yudichak's forward momentum at LCCC builds upon a distinguished 24-year career in public service, where he served as both a State Senator and State Representative. His legislative record is defined by bipartisan coalition-building, economic revitalization projects, and landmark education initiatives, including support for LCCC's Culinary Institute, Public Safety Training Institute, and Health Sciences Center.
His dedication to community improvement is equally evident in his philanthropic work through the Yudichak Family Fund of the Luzerne Foundation, which has funded scholarships, youth programs, and libraries across the region.
Looking Ahead
As President Yudichak prepares to take the stage on May 29 to confer degrees upon the Class of 2025, he does so not only as a college president, but as a native son of northeastern Pennsylvania committed to building stronger communities through education.
"It is the honor of a lifetime to serve Luzerne County Community College," Yudichak said. "Every graduate walking across that stage represents the best of our region's potential?and the promise of a better future."