Berwick, Columbia County, PA -
The Berwick Industrial Development Association (B.I.D.A.) and Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) are celebrating a remarkable 23-year partnership dedicated to expanding access to affordable higher education for Columbia County residents.*
As part of its longstanding commitment to education and workforce development, B.I.D.A. has provided an annual in-kind rental grant to support the College's Berwick Center. This year's contribution totals $19,018.90, marking the 23rd consecutive year of support.
B.I.D.A.'s annual investment enables Columbia County residents attending Luzerne County Community College's Berwick location to pay the College's Luzerne County resident tuition rate, making higher education more affordable and accessible while allowing students to pursue their educational goals close to home.
"B.I.D.A.'s commitment to Luzerne County Community College and the residents of Columbia County exemplifies what strong community partnerships can achieve," said LCCC President John Yudichak. "For more than two decades, this collaboration has helped expand educational access and economic opportunity throughout the region. Together, we are removing financial barriers for students while strengthening our local workforce and communities."
"For 23 years, B.I.D.A. has recognized that education is one of the strongest drivers of economic development," said Joe Scopelliti, President of the B.I.D.A. Board of Directors. "By helping make higher education more affordable for Columbia County residents, we're not only supporting individual students, but we're also strengthening our local workforce, empowering employers, and investing in the long-term success of our region. We are proud to continue this outstanding partnership with Luzerne County Community College and its commitment to serving our community."
The partnership reflects both organizations' shared commitment to supporting educational opportunities, workforce development, and regional economic growth. Through B.I.D.A.'s continued support over the past 23 years, countless Columbia County students have benefited from reduced tuition costs while pursuing associate degrees, workforce training, and career advancement opportunities at Luzerne County Community College.
Luzerne County Community College's Berwick location offers a variety of academic programs, workforce training, and continuing education courses designed to meet the educational and employment needs of Columbia County residents and local employers.
