Chris Howe
What’s your current position?
I’m the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Friendship House. I’ve been in this role since April 2025. In short, I help support an incredible team that provides whole-person-centered behavioral health and autism services to children, adolescents, adults, and their families across Northeastern and Northcentral PA. My job is to make sure our team has the tools and resources they need so they can focus on what matters most.
What would you say most motivates you to do the work you do?
I’m most driven by making sure people get the help they need — especially those who might otherwise fall through the cracks. I care deeply about making care accessible, compassionate, and tailored to the individual. I’m also passionate about connecting people to the many great community resources we have here in Scranton. That kind of wraparound support is something Friendship House is known for — and something I’m proud to be part of.
Where did you grow up and did you go to a college/trade school after high school?
I grew up in Charleston, South Carolina. I started college at the College of Charleston but later transferred to the University of South Carolina, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master’s in Health Administration. Staying local for school and work was rewarding, but I always felt drawn to experience life beyond South Carolina.
I ended up in NEPA after taking a position with a national hospital company that relocated me to Scranton. I didn’t know a single person when I arrived — not one — but the community welcomed me with open arms. It didn’t take long to feel at home, and I haven’t looked back since.
4. Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are?
Absolutely. In high school, I was honestly headed down the wrong path — not focused, and at risk of dropping out. But I ended up meeting a new group of friends who shifted my outlook. Suddenly, doing well in school became something to be proud of, and that completely changed my trajectory.
Later in my career, I was fortunate to have a few strong mentors who encouraged me to think big and persevere through challenges. Their support shaped and influenced me to this day, and I try to pass that same kind of guidance on to others.
How did you learn about Leadership Lackawanna?
My employer recommended the Executive Program shortly after I moved to the area. The timing couldn’t have been better — it gave me a crash course in NEPA’s history, people, and opportunities. I made great connections through the program, many of whom I’m still in touch with both personally and professionally. It was the perfect way to get grounded in the community quickly.
Let’s get personal: tell us your favorite movie, favorite book, favorite TV show, favorite NEPA landmark, or favorite local restaurant!
Movie: The Shawshank Redemption – simply a classic.
Book: Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely – if you think you're the type of person who can never be fooled, you haven’t read this book.
TV Show: Seinfeld – I’m a simple person, and it’s a show about nothing.
NEPA Landmark: The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail – great place to run and clear your head.
Local Restaurant: Alfredo’s (the Gnocchi Blue)