HAZLETON — Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) today applauded the 17 graduates of Penn State Hazleton’s Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program as a powerful example of why preserving the Hazleton campus is so important for the region’s future.
“These graduates represent exactly why we fought so hard to save Penn State Hazleton,” Argall said. “This campus is a workforce engine that is helping to meet critical health care needs across northeastern Pennsylvania.”
The 18-month practical nursing program continues to grow, with strong enrollment numbers demonstrating sustained demand. The current cohort of 27 students began their studies in August 2025, and 40 students are enrolled to start the program in August 2026.
The December 2025 graduating class reflects the diversity and evolving nature of today’s health care workforce. Many of the graduates and currently enrolled students are bilingual, a vital asset in serving patients across the region. Classes are composed of a mix of adult learners returning to school, mid-career professionals seeking new opportunities and students who are new to the health care field.
“Our practical nursing program is dedicated to advancing the health and well‑being of individuals and communities by educating, empowering and inspiring adult learners to become skilled, compassionate entry‑level health care professionals,” said Dr. Heather Assise, coordinator of Penn State Hazleton’s practical nursing program. “Through a student-centered, evidence-based curriculum, we emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on learning and service to others. At Penn State Hazleton, we take pride in preparing our graduates not only with the clinical competencies they need but also with the values and experiences that allow them to give back to their communities.”
“As a land-grant institution, Penn State is committed to expanding access to education and serving community needs,” said Regional Chancellor Durell Johnson, who oversees the Hazleton, Scranton and Wilkes-Barre campuses. “Our practical nursing program does exactly that — preparing students for in-demand health care careers while strengthening the health and well-being of northeastern Pennsylvania.”
Argall has been a leading advocate for preserving Penn State Hazleton and Penn State Schuylkill, emphasizing their role in workforce development, affordability and access to higher education close to home.
“At a time when Pennsylvania faces serious shortages in nursing and other health care professions, students like this are essential,” Argall added. “Penn State Hazleton is doing exactly what we hoped it would — preparing skilled, compassionate professionals who will strengthen our communities and our health care system.”
CONTACT: Seth Hubler