Laurel Institute of Technology first opened its doors in May 2023 as the newest addition to its growing network of locations. Currently located at 127 Ben Casey Drive, Suite 101, the facility welcomed the first group of students in the fall of 2023. Thanks to strong support from the community the campus is set to expand to a newly built 9,500 square feet of instructional and lab space in the same Gipson Office Park complex in Fort Mill. The school plans new programs and expanded enrollment as the new facility opens its doors. The facility renovations should be completed in late summer 2024.

“Laurel’s aim is to become part of the fabric in the communities we serve to build sustainable educational programming that meets the needs of both the employers and our students,” states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of Laurel Institutes, “we look forward to training qualified graduates to meet the local growing workforce, and we know that this move with be vital to that.”

Laurel Institute of Technology currently offers a 16-month Cardiovascular Technology diploma program. Laurel has designed the courses to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people – helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field. This program, along with the on-site simulation experience, is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified technicians in local areas.

“We have researched and seen the needs of trained technicians in this sector of healthcare,” states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of Laurel Institutes, “The Cardiovascular Technology program will train students to be vital contributors to the health and well-being of our communities, which we feel is so important right now.”

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Conveniently located in Fort Mill, SC, Laurel Institute of Technology is a short drive from Interstate I-77 (Exits 88 or 85) off of Highway 160 in the new One Sixty West II Medical Building. For more information, visit laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.

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Beginning September, 4th 2024, Laurel will offer a newly re-designed 8-month Nail Technician program as an evening option. The program teaches students comprehensive knowledge and instruction in the understanding of nail care and design. The program also provides students skill development in areas such as natural manicuring, pedicuring, nail design, and artistry! Laurel also included instruction in traditional and contemporary techniques for nail enhancements and nail extensions! With classes held three days a week, Tuesday through Thursday, in the evenings from 5 PM – 9:30 PM, students will complete the state required 400 hours of theory instruction and skill practice.

Laurel has designed the curriculum to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people – helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field.The Nail Technician program offers real-life experience in our on-site Student Cosmetology Clinic, used for student training and skill development. Laurel is a Redken Premier partner school, which is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified professionals in our area.

Laurel College of Technology believes in providing career and professional education with specialized associate degrees, diploma programs, and professional certifications for a variety of industries. For further information, visit www.laurel.edu, send an email to contactform@laurel.edu, or contact the Morgantown campus directly at 304-381-4097.

 

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Please join Laurel in congratulating Lauren Chaney on her recent promotion to Campus President at the Hermitage, PA campus! Lauren began her journey at Laurel as a Human Resources Assistant and shortly after moved to Director of Education, then Assistant Campus Director.

Lauren has been a wonderful, and helpful representative of Laurel for all employees and students. She has taken on a variety of high-level challenges already in her young career, such as reaccreditation visits, PDE reviews, new program submissions, and student issues, and she’s more than ready for the next chapter. Lauren holds a Master of Education degree, and was recognized by the Shenango Valley in the 30 under 40 awards in the spring of 2023. Laurel is excited to offer our congratulations and thanks!

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Laurel College of Technology held their annual Week of Service on June 10th through the 14th at their Morgantown campus, located at 200 Wedgewood Drive in Morgantown, WV, just off of Van Voorhis Road.

Laurel got the community involved as they dedicate this week to raising funds for Animal Friends of North Central WV and the WVU Children’s Hospital Radiothon hosted by WVAQ & WKKW later this fall. Laurel had a great week of events, including raffle ticket drawings, student salon services, on-site food trucks, STEM projects for children in the community, and live on location appearance from WKKW and their boombox! “It’s always great to see this week come to fruition, our staff and students do a great job and we are always excited to see members of the community.” says Doug Decker, VP of Operations at Laurel. “We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came out to support us here at Laurel, as always, we appreciate how involved this community is when it comes to giving back.”

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Laurel Business Institute is pleased to announce our Dean’s List recipients for the Spring 2024 Semester:

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 4.0 TO 3.8 TO BE ON THE HIGHEST HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Ariana Angelo – Cosmetology
• Hannah Barron – Cosmetology
• Bonnie Benco – Cosmetology
• Anthony Beveloque-Roll – Computer Network Security Technician
• McKena Bolish – Cosmetology
• Hunter Brangard – Welding & Fabrication
• Emily Brestensky – Cosmetology
• Brooke Clark – Welding & Fabrication
• Rashidi Dennis – Welding & Fabrication
• Madison Gibson – Cosmetology
• Benjamin Ginnelly – Welding & Fabrication
• Jonathan Hanson – Electrical Technician
• Bryce Harn – Computer Network Security Technician
• Chasity Horne – Cosmetology
• Lillyann Horvath – Cosmetology
• Holly Huffine – Electrical Technician
• Riley Jenkins – Computer Network Security Technician
• Joel LeBlanc – Welding & Fabrication
• Brandee Malone – Cosmetology
• Luke McCullah – Welding & Fabrication
• McKenna Mitchell – Cosmetology
• Matalyn Mowry – Welding & Fabrication
• Alaina Petrosky – Esthetic/Nail Technician
• Heath Randolph – Welding & Fabrication
• Amber Ravenscroft – Esthetic/Nail Technician
• Trevor Sipe – Electrical Technician
• Braydon Smith – Welding & Fabrication
• Mason Snyder – Electrical Technician
• Christie Specht – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Cassidy Zelasko – Cosmetology

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 3.79 TO 3.5 TO BE ON THE HIGH HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Alexander Abadejos – Network Administration & Security
• Salena DeLuca – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Sara Dodson – Cosmetology
• Michael Evans – Computer Network Security Technician
• Olivia Fairbee – Welding & Fabrication
• McKenna Hilling – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Ross Kowing – Computer Network Security Technician
• Timothy Miller – Electrical Technician
• Kyle Piroch – Electrical Technician
• Samatha Provident – Cosmetology
• Eric Reed – Computer Network Security Technician
• Alicia Rimbey – Esthetic/Nail Technician
• Jacob Robison – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Madison Vojtkofsky – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Elizabeth Warnick – Cosmetology

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 3.49 TO 3.25 TO BE ON THE HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Matthew DeSimone – Respiratory Therapy
• Noah Friday – Electrical Technician
• Caden Maskil – Electrical Technician
• Nikolas Swarz – Electrical Technician
• Gabrielle Sellers – Cosmetology
• Adalina Zolbrod – Cosmetology

Several students also received the following awards:

HAVING EARNED PERFECT ATTENDANCE:

• Adriana Angelo – Cosmetology
• Bonnie Benco – Cosmetology
• Hunter Brangard – Welding & Fabrication
• Emily Brestensky – Cosmetology
• Brooke Clark – Welding & Fabrication
• Sarah Clites – Respiratory Therapy
• Matthew DeSimone – Respiratory Therapy
• Madison Gibson – Cosmetology
• Kaylee Gluvna – Respiratory Therapy
• Jonathan Hanson – Electrical Technician
• Riley Jenkins – Computer Network Security Technician
• Brandee Malone – Cosmetology
• Caden Maskil – Electrical Technician
• Luke McCullah – Welding & Fabrication
• Kevin Morrison – Respiratory Therapy
• Nikolas Schwarz – Electrical Technician
• Trevor Sipe – Electrical Technician
• Christie Specht – Clinical Medical Assistant
• Whitney Wise – Respiratory Therapy

HAVING EARNED COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS:

• Michael Evans – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician
• Bryce Harn – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician
• Riley Jenkins – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician
• Jesse Leone – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician
• Eric Reed – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician
• Brayden Tajc – 1 hour – Computer Network Security Technician

Congratulations to these hardworking students!

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 4,800 alumni across approximately 25 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

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Laurel Technical Institute is pleased to announce our Dean’s List recipients for the Spring 2024 Semester:

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 4.0 TO 3.8 TO BE ON THE HIGHEST HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Contessa Adamo – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Jenna Argiro – Welding & Fabrication
• Izabelle Beichner – Cosmetology
• Wesley Brantner – Welding & Fabrication
• Benjamin Brown – Electrical Technician
• Malaiah Burns – Welding & Fabrication
• Kayla Chmelik – Respiratory Therapy
• Hannah Coyer – Cosmetology
• Sierra Crawford – Cosmetology
• Aaron Dennis – Network Administration & Security
• Maureen Dora – Welding & Fabrication
• Jennilyn Ferguson – Respiratory Therapy
• Tegan Frampton – Network Administration & Security
• Anthony Frasure – Electrical Technician
• Ella Gallo – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Shaye Graham – Cardiovascular Technology
• Nathan Grubb – Welding & Fabrication
• Rowan Hall – Cosmetology
• Jayla Ham – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Taylor Heriger – Cosmetology
• Savannah Hinkle – Welding & Fabrication
• Hayley Hites – Respiratory Therapy
• Robin Howells – Respiratory Therapy
• Madison Kreider – Cosmetology
• Scott Kurtz – Welding & Fabrication
• Blair Langos – Master Teacher of Cosmetology
• Anna Mailliard – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Michelle Martin – Welding & Fabrication
• Peyton Mazzant – Cosmetology
• Kylee McIntyre – Respiratory Therapy
• Jonathan Melhorn – Electrical Technician
• Madison Moody – Cosmetology
• Zoei O’Brien – Culinary Arts
• Alexander Rice – Welding & Fabrication
• Maegan Russell – Cosmetology
• Bryan Sinkus – Electrical Technician
• Hailee Stinedurf – Cosmetology
• Michael Vallas – Network Administration & Security
• Michael Wade – Electrical Technician
• Kendall Wansack – Cosmetology
• Tyler Welsh – Network Administration & Security
• John Zawacki – Electrical Technician

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 3.79 TO 3.5 TO BE ON THE HIGH HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Joseph Arana – Electrical Technician
• Marissa Austin – Culinary Arts
• William Bork – Computer Network Security Technician
• Brooke Bryson – Welding & Fabrication
• Victoria Delgado – Culinary Arts
• Sydney Evanko – Respiratory Therapy
• David Heaberlin – Electrical Technician
• Jacob Kytchak – Computer Network Security Technician
• Ja’Kendra Langford – Electrical Technician
• Noel McMuldren – Network Administration & Security
• Dajunonna Mikulin – Cardiovascular Technology
• Luke Mild – Electrical Technician
• Autumn Mills – Cosmetology
• Alana Myers – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Kenneth Nalepa – Culinary Arts
• Erin Phibbs – Respiratory Therapy
• Madison Pipes – Respiratory Therapy
• Zhanna Ray – Cosmetology
• Allison Sauerwein – Respiratory Therapy
• Oriana Smith – Cosmetology
• Maxwell Tiber – Computer Network Security Technician

HAVING EARNED A GRADE POINT AVERAGE OF 3.49 TO 3.25 TO BE ON THE HONORS DEAN’S LIST:

• Callie Adams – Cardiovascular Technology
• Danielle Brubaker – Respiratory Therapy
• Arabella Cook – Respiratory Therapy
• Mackenzie Davis – Cardiovascular Technology
• Aahleyah Diffenbacher – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Madisyn Duck – Cardiovascular Technology
• Breanna Hanley – Cardiovascular Technology
• Kelvin Henry – Electrical Technician
• Jessica Hunt – Respiratory Therapy
• Bailey Lindauer – Respiratory Therapy
• Jeremiah Marol – Welding & Fabrication
• Alexis McLoskey – Esthetics/Nail Technician
• Ava Mott – Cardiovascular Technology
• Melvin Osorto – Culinary Arts
• Leticia Rea – Respiratory Therapy
• Caidence Sloss – Cosmetology
• Madison Soukovich – Cardiovascular Technology
• Kelly Vanepps – Esthetic/Nail Technician
• Anthony Yauger – Respiratory Therapy

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

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Bottom Row (right to left): Cordell Aldrich, Karen Kern, Ashlee Dalton, Chane Thompson, Kathryn Barch, Phillip Steve, Heather Rodeheaver, Kenzie Whipkey, Nicholas Michael, Heather Yoder, Mayla Berrios, Rodney Ohler, Autumn Shaulis, Samantha Tarr, Ellie Suich, Kendall Snyder, Morgan Holloway, Cheyenne Deal, Jennifer Shumar, Danielle Booker, Sara Stroder, Maranda Hanlin

Middle Row (right to left): Amanda Thompson, Brittany Jackson, Renee Dingle, Miranda Kleitz, Kylah Richardson, Rebecca Mattoon, Christina Upton, Kima Harris, Avory Pratt

Top Row (right to left): Jayda Johson, Adrienne Sisler, Chayse DaCosta, Bria Lewis, Celene Gowton, Holly Lesko, Ariona Woods, Jessica Rice, Erika Keffer, Natasha Young. Victoria Robinson, Deeva Ritz

Laurel Business Institute held graduation on May 23, 2024, at the State Theater in Uniontown, PA. Opening comments were given by Nancy Decker, President and CEO of Laurel Institutes, “Graduation is one of my favorite parts of the year, because I know that it took hard work and dedication for you each to get here, and I enjoy celebrating this moment of new beginnings with you!”

Campus President, Bonnie Marsh, recognized the class Valedictorians, Mayla Berrios, Rodney Ohler, Autumn Shaulis, Emilie Wilson, and Heather Yoder. Salutatorians we also recognized, Nicholas Michael, Kenzie Whipkey, and Heather Rodenheaver. Next to be recognized were the May 2024 Distinguished Graduates, Kenzie Whipkey, Mayla Berrios, Karen Kern, Philip Steve, Ellie Suich, and Smantha Tarr. Laurel Business Insitute’s Director of Education, McKenna Gower, then presented the Degree and Diplomas to the graduates. The Career Services department reported that 42% of the May 2024 graduating class have accepted employment offers within their program of study.

The following students were awarded Specialized Associate Degrees and Diplomas in the following programs:

Degree Programs:

Accounting & Business Administration

• Jessica Craig
• Issak Schon
• Alene Smith
• Kenzie Elizabeth Whipkey

Early Childhood Education

• Chayse Landon DaCosta

Electrical Technician

• Mayla Berrios
• Nicholas Michael

Network Administration & Security

• Emmanuel Reed
• Ellie Suich
• Zachary Thomas

Respiratory Therapy

• Kira Baird
• Kathryn Barch
• Danielle Booker
• Riley M. Davis
• Maranda Ann Hanlin
• Morgan L. Holloway
• Sara Stroder
• Chane Thompson

Diploma Programs:

Clinical Medical Assistant

• Erkia Lynn Keffer
• Jessica Rice
• Christina Marie Upton

Cosmetology

• Kima Harris
• Ariona Rachelle Woods

Esthetics & Nail Technician

• JaiLynn Call
• Celene Gowton
• Karen Kern
• Holly Lesko
• Avory Pratt
• Autumn ShaulisEmilie Wilson

Massage Therapy

• Bria Korynn Lewis
• Rebecca Ann Mattoon
• Kylah Raelyn Richardson
• Heather Marie Rodeheaver
• Heather Kaylene Yoder

Nail Technician

• Renee Dingle
• Miranda Jo Kleitz

Practical Nursing

• Ashlee Nicole Dalton
• Cheyenne L. Deal
• Brittany R. Jackson
• Jayda Chantel Johnson
• Michaela Philips
• Deeva Paige Ritz
• Victoria Robinson
• Jennifer Shumar
• Adrienne N Sisler
• Kendall Snyder
• Samantha Marie Tarr
• Amanda Lorraine Thompson
• Natasha Young

Welding & Fabrication with Pipeline Technology

• Cordell Aldrich
• Rodney Wayne Ohler Jr.
• Philip Andrew Steve

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,800 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

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The ADN Nursing program of Laurel College of Technology at the Morgantown campus located in Morgantown, West Virginia is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the West Virginia RN Board. The Accreditation Commision for Education in Nursing is located at 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the ADN nursing program is initial accreditation. Laurel offers a direct route for ADN and an LPN/Paramedic to ADN route. Public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program on the ACEN website.

Laurel’s Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN), a 71 credit program that spans over 5 semesters, and the LPN/Paramedic to ADN, which is 4 semesters, are designed to prepare the graduate to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses and to enter a career as a beginning practitioner of nursing. Laurel’s coursework provides students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people, a view of the patient as a unique individual that requires nursing knowledge and skills. The program and simulation center is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified nurses.

“Our program, and the students in it, will be held to rigorous expectations for the safety of future patients and the care our students will provide the community,” states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of Laurel. The nursing program has a well-designed and equipped simulation lab that students will utilize throughout the program to prepare them for the Next-GEN NCLEX, critical thinking, and patient care. Laurel also adopted Virtual simulation in class learning to provide educational and useful scenarios. The curriculum students will take includes courses in Human Growth & Development, Fundamentals of Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and much more!

Laurel is also pleased to have Dr. Michelle Borland with them as the Director of Nursing throughout the development and accreditation process. Dr. Borland is a resident of Uniontown, PA and owned and operated a rehabilitation and fitness center where she provided rehabilitation therapy and taught aerobics and martial arts for 17 years. She has over 20 years of teaching experience; teaching in high schools, hospitals, and universities. She also has an extensive educational background including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, a Post-Master’s certificate as Nurse Practitioner, a Master’s degree in Nursing Education, Bachelor degrees in Nursing, Physical Education, and Athletic Training! She holds certification as Family Nurse Practitioner both in WV and PA, Nurse Educator, ACLS & BLS instructor as well as a license as an RN in WV and PA. She has multiple publications in journals, text, and online editorials. Dr. Borland states she is very excited to continue her journey with Laurel and is ready to assist our students in becoming future nurses!

With small class sizes and great faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great healthcare workers for the community and surrounding areas! In addition, Laurel College of Technology has established healthcare affiliations with Mon-Health, WVU Medicine in Morgantown and Uniontown (PA) as well as Encompass Health and Select Specialty Hospitals in Morgantown, as well as Washington Health System in Pennsylvania. The students in Laurel College of Technology’s healthcare programs will receive invaluable clinical experiences from all affiliations.

Laurel’s Nursing program has new class starts every January, May, and September, offering the option for more frequent opportunity for potential students. Find more information on Laurel’s programs at laurel.edu/nursing or laurel.edu/lpnparamedic-adn-transition.

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Laurel College of Technology held their Spring 2024 graduation ceremony on May 17, 2024. Opening comments were given by CEO and President of Laurel Institutes, Nancy Decker, saying “it’s not always easy, so we are excited to be here to celebrate your success and the wonderful support system you had throughout this educational journey.”

First to be recognized were the class Valedictorians, Kyra Rottler, Isaac Talkington, Stacey Peterson, and Mela Stewart. The Salutatorians we also recognized, Kaela Bowers, Carley Hazlett, and Sydney Fink. Next to be recognized were the May 2024 Distinguished Graduates, Gina Campbell, Alissa Payne & Gabrielle Riggleman. Kathleen Sypolt, Director of Education, then presented the Degrees and Diplomas to the graduates. Campus President, Sherri Rimel also reported that 40% of May graduating class have already accepted an employment offer within their program of study!

The following students were awarded Specialized Associate Degrees and Diplomas in the following programs:

Degree Programs:

Accounting & Business Administration

• Jessica Craig

Cardiovascular Technology

• Myah Gross

Electrical Technician

• Delton Logan
• Issac Talkington
• Evan Wiseman

LPN/Paramedic to ADN Transition Program

• Sloane Arco
• Julia Budzinski
• Madison Burchill
• Gina Campbell
• Sadie Daniel
• Destiny Matusky
• Andrea Mayle
• Coral Mossburg
• Laina McConnell
• Tara Philips
• John Phiri
• Melissa Rogers
• Dana Webster
• Ayeesha Ridgely
• Shelby Wilmoth
• Sara Yacup

Nursing

• Stacey Anderson
• Leeanna Downey
• Skyla Dulin
• Edward Goodwin
• Gabrielle Riggleman

Diploma Programs:

Cosmetology

• Anna Downs
• Emily Hunter
• Alissa Payne
• Kendra Pryce
• Emily Rowe

Esthetics

• Kaela Brown
• Cammie Bowman
• Gina Clark
• Sydney Fiffik
• Carley Hazlett
• Chloe Jones
• Stacey Peterson
• Kyra Rottler
• Jordan Skidmore
• Mela Stewart

Nail Technician

• Madison Greathouse

 

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Laurel Technical Institute has announced the launch of its new hands-on, campus-based Culinary Arts specialized associate degree program. This program is now elevated from a diploma to a 16-month AS degree designed for those seeking an accelerated, college-level curriculum with a culinary and restaurant focus. Laurel’s new Associate of Specialized Business Degree in Culinary Arts is exclusively available at the Sharon, PA satellite campus at 200 Sterling Avenue. The degree can be completed in 16 months with 63-credits.

The degree program will be taught on campus, 3 days a week, and is composed of four semesters. The degree program features 400 hours of targeted general education and career development courses to prepare students of the program to understand the dynamics of their future careers. It will continue the integral use of on and off-site internship courses, broadening the development of skills and understanding of the field. Laurel’s updated degree program will include courses in Baking, Pastry & Dessert Essentials, American Regional Cuisines, Introduction to Hospitality Management, and International Cuisines. “At Laurel, our goal is to provide each student with an ever evolving opportunity for growth and education,” said Laurel’s Executive Vice President, Douglas Decker, PhD. “We wanted to provide the opportunity for students to gain essential culinary arts skills in a more developed setting.”

Laurel’s updated Culinary Arts program includes updated curriculum including:

Specialized Culinary Courses

• Lessons in fundamental cooking techniques including roasting, braising, grilling, sautéing, and the preparation of stocks and sauces
• A deep dive into the essential flavor profiles and classic international dishes
• The art of cooking through theory, technique, palate development, and teamwork
• Education in the fundamentals of pastry and baking, which can be applied to sweet and savory cooking, restaurants and catering
• The on-site C.H.E.F.S Garden, sponsored by Buhl Mansion, provides a unique live-garden lab promoting culinary horticulture education and food sustainability where students experience a more comprehensive and holistic approach to our food ecosystem

Restaurant & Culinary Management

• Lessons on the interplay between concept development, menu design, pricing and profitability
• A deep dive into the basics of cost control and restaurant accounting, including the development of a business plan
• On-campus student run restaurant that operates for the public during the week providing real-world restaurant experience, catering, and event management from the classroom

Culinary Education & Career Exploration

• Exploration of the interconnections between cuisine, historical events and international locations, and the growth of America’s culinary culture
• Lessons in the connection between personal, professional and financial goals to examine how they contribute to career and personal success, as well as the importance of leadership and team-building
• Courses in written and verbal communication skills as they relate to recipe writing, reviewing, food blogging and culinary demonstrations
• Education on the basics of nutrition and the relationship between diet, health, nutrients and how a culinary professional can use this knowledge
• Required 400-hour off-site internship placements
• Exciting and informative fields trips to a variety of culinary destinations, from Clevlan to the Laurel Highlands

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the American Culinary Federation’s Certified Culinarian exam, showcasing their professionalism and readiness for the industry. An ACF certification validates knowledge and skills, making the culinarian a more valuable candidate for the workforce. Laurel has Premier Employer Partnerships with local restaurants to promote and strengthen employer/educator relationships to enhance the workforce of our local community. Local partnerships for the Culinary Arts program include The Avalon Country Club, Joy Baking Group, and The Grand Resort. These partnerships are a great pathway for students and graduates of Laurel’s Culinary Arts program to experience internships during their education and potential career placement upon graduation!