CARBONDALE, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Johnson College held a Celebration of Industry banquet Thursday evening, honoring three industry partners for their contributions to workforce and economic development in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The event was held at Hotel Anthracite in Carbondale and recognized the Genzlinger Family, Marshall Machinery Inc. and Rob Grimm as award recipients.
More than 200 business and community leaders attended the event, which raised money for Johnson College’s Annual Fund, supporting academic programs, student resources, facilities, technology, equipment, scholarships and hands-on learning opportunities.
Dr. Katie Pittelli, president and CEO of Johnson College, said the last Celebration of Industry was held three years ago on the college’s Scranton campus. She added that the college intentionally does not hold the event annually in order to preserve its significance.
This year’s celebration placed a particular focus on Wayne and Pike counties. Pittelli said those partnerships extend beyond financial support and directly influence how Johnson College prepares students for the workforce.
“This is what we’re all about at Johnson College. I like to say industry is our students’ campus. So whether they’re on our Scranton campus, Hazleton campus, or taking classes at one of our labs out in the community, it really all comes back to the relationships we have with our industry partners. We can’t do what we do without these industry partners,” said Pittelli.
The Genzlinger Family was represented by Grant and Jeanne Genzlinger, founders of Settlers Hospitality, and their son, Justin Genzlinger, CEO of the company. Grant and Jeanne Genzlinger purchased and restored the historic Settlers Inn in Hawley in 1980, while Justin Genzlinger later expanded Settlers Hospitality to include inns, restaurants, wellness destinations, arts venues and commercial properties. Johnson College also credited the family with helping the school make connections that led to its first prison education program at the Wayne County Correctional Facility.
Marshall Machinery Inc., founded in 1959 by John Marshall, was recognized for its support of the agriculture, construction and related industries across Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. The family-owned company, now led by second-generation President Earl Marshall, provides equipment sales, rentals, parts and service. Marshall Machinery has also supported Johnson College by donating equipment, creating internship opportunities, hiring students and participating in career fairs.
Rob Grimm, vice president of Grimm Construction Inc., was honored for his work with the family-owned construction company, which was founded by Charles Grimm in 1975 and has served Wayne County and surrounding communities for more than 50 years. Grimm Construction provides residential, commercial and industrial construction services. Grimm has also supported the college’s curriculum, served on program advisory committees, hired Johnson College students and helped connect the school with other industry partners.
Each honoree received the President’s Spirit of Giving Award, a steel sculpture designed and created in 2023 by members of Johnson College’s Welding Technology program. The piece symbolizes the connection among industry, education and the community.