Discover our story, strengthen your local network, and join an alumni community of leaders and change makers.
Welcome Scranton! is a 2½-day immersive experience designed to connect you with the people, places, and priorities shaping the Scranton region today. Through exclusive site visits, dynamic sessions, and conversations with top civic and business leaders, you'll gain firsthand insight into our economic growth, cultural vitality, and civic identity. Each day offers a fresh perspective—spanning business innovation, economic development, arts, recreation, and community engagement—highlighting how these elements come together to define our region’s unique character and future. By the end of the program, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the area, a stronger professional network, and clear, practical ways to get involved and make a lasting impact.
Welcome Scranton! is open to everyone, from newcomers and entry-level employees to area natives and executives. Click HERE to download the brochure.
Welcome Scranton! is proudly sponsored by:
Welcome to the Welcome Scranton! Spring 2026 Class
Edweana Alexis, Johnson College
Lewis Beavers, Penn East FCU
Emilie Gebert, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
Parker Dorsey , NeighborWorks Northeastern PA
Nathan Goberdon, Geisinger
Lily Hannon, Weis Pharmacy
Eric Idelfonso, City of Scranton
Justin Kucharski, Tobyhanna Army Depot
Bernard Nti, Covenant Presbyterian Church
Holly Ord, NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania
Kathleen Pearage, Tri-Star Academy
Grace Shaner, City of Scranton
Melissa Wicksnes, Peoples Security Bank and Trust
Sam Zavada, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
Why Attend WS!?
Exclusive access to influential leaders and iconic sites
Opportunities to build meaningful connections with engaged professionals
A comprehensive, insider’s perspective on the region’s growth, opportunities, and future potential
Upon competition of Welcome Scranton!, you’ll become part of the Leadership Lackawanna alumni network, connecting you to 2,700+ community members, leaders and changemakers
WS! Time Commitment & Tuition
Welcome Scranton! is a 2 ½ days (1 full day and 3 half days) program. Tuition is $620, which includes transportation, materials and a celebratory “graduation” event. A limited amount of partial scholarships are available based on need.
Who Should Attend WS!
Welcome Scranton! is a “gateway” experience to our area, from established leaders seeking more civic engagement to rising professionals ready to take their place as community leaders. Each Welcome Scranton! class is comprised of a diverse group of leaders including: executives, young professionals, managers, entry-level professionals, business owners, nonprofit directors and senior business officials.
New residents eager to build their network and expand their regional knowledge
lifelong residents interested in gaining a fresh perspective on the region
Community-minded professionals ready to engage more fully in our region
How Companies/Businesses/Organizations Can Benefit from participating in WS!:
This program is a unique way to train employees, as well as recognize and reward top talent.
Welcome Scranton! allows for a personal, hands-on way to introduce new (or seasoned) employees to all that Scranton and Lackawanna County have to offer.
Organizations will see increased visibility, as well as business opportunities, leads and referrals, all thanks to the enhanced connections participants gain as a result of this program.
Through successful and engaged completion of this program, employees will feel more connected to the community in which they live and work. This is a major retention benefit!
