The Commonwealth Beat with Laura LeBeau - Episode 62 - 12/08/2024

The Commonwealth Beat with Laura LeBeau is a statewide Public Affairs program airing on all of the Seven Mountains Media Pennsylvania radio stations. For many high school seniors in the Keystone State, this is the time of year when they begin receiving early acceptance letters to college.  However, with the thought of college comes the reality of paying for it.  That's where many students struggle.  But there is an alternative, and it's called Community College.  Pennsylvania has 15 Community Colleges in the state, and they are no longer considered a choice of last resort.  Dr. John Siegielski, President of Harrisburg Area Community College will discuss how they've changed over the years, and why more and more highly qualified students are beginning their collegiate careers close to home at their local Community College.  In about 18 months, America will celebrate it's next milestone birthday, it's Semiquincentennial, or 250th birthday.  In recognition of this significant milestone, the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial was established in 2018 by an act of the general assembly, to plan, develop and coordinate events marking the 250th anniversary of the USA.  America250PA Executive Director Cassandra Coleman will discuss how the Commonwealth is gearing up for this event.