Stacey Cognetti

What’s your current position?

I am the eLearning Coordinator at Lackawanna College, a role I’ve held for about a year and a half, though I’ve been with the college for nearly 13 years. My responsibilities include providing training and support to our online adjunct faculty, as well as teaching one course per term, typically in business or mathematics. Additionally, I serve as an adjunct instructor for Prescott College, teaching graduate-level economics.

Outside of my role in higher education, I am the event coordinator for Hillside Park in Clarks Summit where I schedule bands, secure community sponsors for our summer concert series, and co-chair our annual kids' fishing derby.

 What would you say most motivates you to do the work you do?  What are you most passionate about? 

 Our students and instructors inspire me to strive for excellence and continually seek ways to improve the student experience. Collaborating with fellow staff and instructors, we are united by a common goal: to provide the best education and support possible. This ensures our students not only achieve their academic goals but also become pillars of their communities and valuable assets to the organizations that they serve.

Where did you grow up and did you go to a college/trade school after high school?

 I was born and raised in Scranton and began my educational journey at Lackawanna College. From there, I earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary mathematics education and an MBA with a focus on sustainability. While I initially envisioned a career teaching mathematics in a high school classroom, my experience as an adjunct instructor at Lackawanna College helped me to realize my true passion is working in higher education.

 Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are?

I’ve been fortunate to have had many mentors throughout my education and career who have shaped my passion for working in education. I have found that surrounding yourself with people who inspire you to do your best work and make a meaningful impact is invaluable. Over the years, I’ve connected with several of these difference-makers—colleagues and friends alike—whose work ethic and drive I truly admire. The best mentors I’ve had are those with a profound sense of purpose, who find true value in their work beyond a paycheck and consistently strive to make a meaningful, positive impact.

 How did you learn about Leadership Lackawanna?

 I first learned about Leadership Lackawanna through past program graduates, and my time in the Core program proved to be one of the most transformational experiences in my professional development. The program not only helped me enhance my leadership skills but also pushed me out of my comfort zone, giving me the confidence to try new things. I was fortunate to be part of an incredible group of classmates, each with remarkable talents and a shared passion for community service and involvement. Being surrounded by such like-minded individuals further motivated me to strive to be the best version of myself. Now, just a year later, I am proud to serve as a Leadership Lackawanna board member and project advisor.

Let’s get personal: tell us your favorite movie, favorite book, favorite TV show, favorite NEPA landmark, or favorite local restaurant!   

This is a tough one. My favorite NEPA landmark is the Lackawanna River. Growing up in Scranton I spent countless hours fishing the river with my father. In middle school I became involved in water quality testing, conservation, and stewardship efforts of the river with the LRCA. Over the years, the river has made remarkable progress and has become a valuable asset to the NEPA region—not only as a hub for recreational activities but also as a critical wildlife habitat. It serves as an excellent resource for educating the next generation about the importance of environmental conservation and the need to protect natural resources for the future.