Lewisburg, PA – Penn Highland’s Community College expanded into Centre County, opening a 5,500 sq. ft. educational facility in Bellefonte Borough last August.
Earlier this month, the college was awarded a $49,537 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant to support this expansion. The funds will be used to purchase equipment and furniture, enhancing the educational experience for 300-400 students. Additionally, the college aims to train 100 incumbent workers, enhancing their skill sets, over the next three years.
“We want to emphasize the positive impact this grant will have as we work to provide new types of quality, affordable educational opportunities to students in and around Centre County,” stated Omar Strohm, Associate Vice President of Finance. “We want our students to have the most impactful resources available at their disposal.”
The Appalachian Region Commission is an economic development partnership agency of the federal government and 13 state governments including Pennsylvania. PA’s Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) partners with ARC and the SEDA-COG Local Development District to identify and support projects that will build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in the Appalachian counties of Pennsylvania to reach socioeconomic parity with the nation.
The expansion of Penn Highlands into Centre County is a unique opportunity to improve access to higher education, particularly for economically disadvantaged individuals, first-generation students, working adults, parents, and those needing academic support. Penn Highlands’ mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and quality educational opportunities to the communities it serves. While other postsecondary institutions exist in Centre County, Penn Highlands complements—not competes with—them by offering unique programs and affordable pathways to degrees and certificates.
Penn Highlands Centre County emphasizes a select range of courses and academic programs, some designated as High Priority Occupations for Centre County, ensuring students are equipped for in-demand careers that align with local employers’ needs and boost the region’s economic growth.
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College is committed to delivering accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population, promoting both personal and professional development. Penn Highlands offers over 40 associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas to its entire service area and beyond. With options for in-person, blended, and online classes, students enjoy the flexibility needed to transition smoothly into the workforce or continue their education. Beyond credit programs, Penn Highlands provides various certificates, non-credit courses, and customized workforce development training, supporting workforce expansion.
SEDA-COG is a community and economic development agency in Lewisburg and is one of seven Local Development Districts in Pennsylvania. SEDA-COG enhances the quality of life and economic advantage for residents and businesses in the 11 central Pennsylvania counties through its vital partnerships and initiatives.