[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 125 (Thursday, September 18, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1795-E1796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           LUZERNE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 30TH ANNIVERSARY

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                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 1997

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Luzerne 
County Community

[[Page E1796]]

College, which is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its founding this 
month. I am pleased and proud to have been asked to participate in this 
significant celebration.
  In 1965, the Luzerne County Board of Commissioners took a very bold 
step. They adopted a resolution to sponsor a 2 year college which would 
be affordable to all Luzerne County residents. A study was needed and 
the board called upon the County Board of School Directors to initiate 
planning of the project. In less than a year, an application was made 
to the Pennsylvania State Board of Education for permission to 
establish and operate a community college. The State board granted 
permission in September 1966.
  Two months later, Luzerne County Community College was officially in 
operation. A board of trustees was formed and a president was appointed 
to lead the college. On October 2, 1967 the college opened its doors 
for the first time in small quarters located next to the Hotel Sterling 
in downtown Wilkes-Barre. The college's first class of 195 students 
graduated in May 1969.
  Mr. Speaker, the foresight of the County Commissioners; Ed Wideman, 
William G. Goss and James B. Post, 30 years ago has made it possible 
for more than 13,000 young people to begin a college career or earn a 2 
year degree for professional advancement. Over 200 area businesses 
employ Luzerne County Community College alumni.
  In 1974, the college moved to its present impressive campus in 
Nanticoke, Pennsylvania. This modern campus includes an educational 
conference center, general academics building and two technical arts 
buildings with state of the art labs and classrooms. The campus also 
includes medical and dental arts facilities and the newest addition, 
the advanced technology center.
  Mr. Speaker, Luzerne County Community College has come a long way 
since its humble beginnings in downtown Wilkes-Barre 30 years ago. I am 
extremely proud to join with the community in commending the board of 
trustees, management, and staff of the college in providing educational 
opportunity to thousands of area residents. I would also like to 
recognize the Luzerne county commissioners who have continued to play 
an active role in supporting this important educational institution.
  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to bring the history of this fine 
institution to the attention of my colleagues and send my sincere best 
wishes for continued success.

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