MORGANTOWN, WV – Laurel College of Technology is pleased to announce a streamlined nursing pathway at the Morgantown campus, designed to fast-track students into the healthcare workforce. By offering a 20-month Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) followed by an accelerated 10-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) addition, Laurel is providing a critical solution to the growing demand for highly skilled medical professionals in North Central West Virginia.听

Laurel is thrilled to announce a historic milestone for the Morgantown location: the launch of the first听 Bachelor鈥檚 degree program for the school. 鈥淭his expansion marks our commitment to providing a seamless, high-quality educational journey,鈥� said Dr. Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer for Laurel鈥檚 trade school network.听 鈥淥ur hope is that this empowers our students to achieve their highest academic and professional aspirations.鈥�

鈥淭he need for skilled nursing leaders has never been higher,鈥� said Dr. Michelle Borland, VP of Nursing for Laurel. 鈥淥ur curriculum is designed for the modern nurse, focusing on patient safety, informatics, and evidence-based practice to ensure our students are ready for the complexities of today鈥檚 healthcare environment.鈥�

As the healthcare landscape evolves, West Virginia continues to face a significant nursing shortage. Laurel鈥檚 program allows students to earn their ADN and enter the workforce as Registered Nurses (RNs) in just under two years. Once licensed, graduates can seamlessly transition into the 10-month BSN program to elevate their clinical leadership and specialized care capabilities. Laurel鈥檚 program is also an option for any degree-holding nurse, who has an ADN (Associate Degree of Nursing) or ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing). This allows professionals to expand your degree and advance your career opportunities! Applicants who already hold their nursing degree must also have an active, unencumbered RN license in order to be eligible for the program.

鈥淥ur mission is to prepare job-ready professionals who can provide immediate, high-quality care to our community,鈥� said Dr. Decker, 鈥淏y combining intensive simulation lab training with strategic clinical affiliations, we hope to ensure our graduates are not just meeting industry standards, but exceeding them.鈥�

Key Features of the Program Include:

• Accelerated Timeline: Complete the ADN in 20 months and the BSN in an additional 10 months.
• Local Clinical Partnerships: Students gain hands-on experience through affiliations with WVU Medicine, Mon Health, and Encompass Health.
• Specialized Simulation: Training spaces utilizes high-fidelity simulation labs to prepare students for real-world critical thinking.
• Accreditation: Laurel鈥檚 Nursing program is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the West Virginia RN Board.
• BSN (10-month) Completion: Students of this portion of the program have no requirement for on-ground attendance. The courses are completed through Laurel鈥檚 eLearning system.

Laurel College of Technology is currently accepting applications for its upcoming class starting in May 2026. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. For more information on the ADN + BSN program or to schedule a campus tour, please visit .听

Laurel College of Technology (LCOT) provides career-focused higher education serving the North Central West Virginia region. Located at 200 Wedgewood Drive in Morgantown, LCOT is a branch of the Laurel Technical Institute (formerly Laurel Business Institute) in Uniontown, PA. Founded on a mission to bridge the gap between education and employment, the college offers specialized associate degree programs and now bachelor’s degree program, as well as diploma certifications in high-demand fields such as healthcare, cloud computing, electrical technology, and cosmetology. Nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and licensed by the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education, Laurel is committed to small class sizes, hands-on training, and fostering a diverse, inclusive learning environment. For more information on our programs, visit www.laurel.edu.

The Hermitage campus for Laurel Technical Institute is pleased to announce the Dean’s List recipients for the Fall 2025 semester.

Having Earned a Grade Point Average of 4.0 to 3.8, receiving Highest Honors:听

Lenora, Dhaylan : Computer Network Security Technology

Mihoci, Jayden : Computer Network Security Technology

Masaitis, Noah : Computer Network Security Technology

Criss, Gianna : Cosmetology

Dick, Eden : Cosmetology

Hawke, Emma : Cosmetology

Holmes, Megan : Cosmetology

Jennings, Sarah : Cosmetology

Larocca, Shandi : Cosmetology

Wagner, Amanda : Cosmetology

Aquino, Nadine : Culinary

Hefferan, Kaylamaria : Culinary

Payne, Da鈥橵on : Culinary

Littlejohn, Chynna : Cardiovascular Technology

Bennett, Andrew : Electrical Technician

Blakeman, Nathaniel : Electrical Technician

Cain, Terrance : Electrical Technician

Carlos, Christian : Electrical Technician

Thompson, Corey : Electrical Technician

Garro, Alice : Respiratory Therapy

Boyd, Courtney : Respiratory Therapy
Fogel, Hunter : Respiratory Therapy
Nichol, Morgan : Respiratory Therapy

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.79 to 3.5, receiving High Honors:

Cain, Robert : Computer Network Security Technology

Chambers, Mia : Cosmetology
Testani, Gretchen : Cosmetology
Gabryelski, Cierra : Cosmetology

Holbrook, Sean : Culinary

Bass, Nyla : Cardiovascular Technology
Beish, Kayden : Cardiovascular Technology
Butera, Ava : Cardiovascular Technology
Miranda, Marisol : Cardiovascular Technology

Buckley, Colin : Electrical Technician
Quinn, Brady : Electrical Technician
Murphy, Henry : Electrical Technician
Redfoot, Ryan : Electrical Technician

Rea, Abigail : Master Teacher of Cosmetology

Scarbrough, Autumn : Respiratory Therapy
Bray, Audrey : Respiratory Therapy
Bowen, Kaitlin : Respiratory Therapy
Kuny, Valerie : Respiratory Therapy

Bryson, Jayden : Welding Fabrication with Pipeline Technology
Toy, Hailey : Welding Fabrication with Pipeline Technology

Sisler, Anthony : Welding Fabrication with Pipeline Technology
Snyder, Myah : Welding Fabrication with Pipeline Technology

Bissel, Charlie : Esthetics/ Nail Tech

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.49 to 3.25, receiving Honors:听

Gearhart, Torrie : Cosmetology
Brodie, Ny鈥橢asha : Cosmetology

Waller, Kiasia : Culinary

De La Rosa, Cynthia : Cardiovascular Technology
Ramsey, Bethany : Cardiovascular Technology
Schultz, Delaney : Cardiovascular Technology
Aponte, Fantasia : Cardiovascular Technology
Blunt, Paris : Cardiovascular Technology
Justice, Kiona : Cardiovascular Technology
Sapot, Alyson : Cardiovascular Technology

Chambers, Jazmaine : Electrical Technician

Housel, Crystal : Respiratory Therapy
Lavelle, Jessica : Respiratory Therapy
Bickel, Chelsea : Respiratory Therapy

Receiving recognition for Perfect Attendance:听

Bennett, Andrew

Boyd, Courtney

Buckley, Colin

Masaitis, Noah

Pavlov, Sierra

Steigerwald, Eden

Holmes, Megan

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 鈥� February 5th, 2026

Laurel College of Technology in Morgantown, WV听 is pleased to announce the Dean’s List recipients for the Fall 2025 semester.

Having Earned a Grade Point Average of 4.0 to 3.8, receiving Highest Honors:听

Sines, Marissa 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Locke, Ryan 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Cooper, Mylee 鈥� Cosmetology

Bland, Brooklyn 鈥� Cosmetology

Mullins, Shyla 鈥� Cosmetology

Pyles, Rylee 鈥� Cosmetology

Phillips, Alexis 鈥� Cosmetology

Nichols, Olivia 鈥� Cosmetology

Demidovich, Skylar 鈥� Cosmetology

Riggleman, Skylar 鈥� Cosmetology

Thayer, Alexis 鈥� Cosmetology

Tichenor, Emma 鈥� Cosmetology

Ware, Stephanie 鈥� Cosmetology

Eakin, Megan 鈥� Cosmetology

Davis, Kaitlin 鈥� Cosmetology

Snyder, Brooke 鈥� Cosmetology

Yunn, Logan 鈥� Electrical Technician

Fowler, Jonathan 鈥� Electrical Technician

See, Jaydon 鈥� Electrical Technician

Kyle, Jonathan Patrick 鈥� Electrical Technician

Messinger, Grayson 鈥� Electrical Technician

Turner, Austin 鈥� Electrical Technician

Shrout, Makayla 鈥� Hair Styling

Weser, Austin 鈥� HVAC Technician

King, Garett 鈥� HVAC Technician

Galloway, Christian 鈥� HVAC Technician

Gill, Dakota 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Reicholf, Jaysie 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Dennis, Lauren 鈥� Nursing

Davis, Katerina 鈥� Nursing

Boyer, Steven 鈥� Nursing

Barber, Addie 鈥� Nursing

DeRosa, Sidney 鈥� Nursing

Bennett, Kendra 鈥� Nursing

Matheney, Cydney 鈥� Nursing

VanDiver, Lauren 鈥� Nursing

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.79 to 3.5, receiving High Honors:

Lee, Madison 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Long, Madeleine 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Nutter, Mason 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Batchelor, Dawn 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Trout, Braleigh 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Thomas, Kieana 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Owens, William 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Sanner, Kathy 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Bojaski, Katelyn 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Morris, Emily 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Nicholson, Daniell 鈥� Cosmetology

Nicholson, Isabella 鈥� Cosmetology

Tennant, Ryleigh 鈥� Cosmetology

Kemp, Haylea 鈥� Cosmetology

Martin, Alexis 鈥� Cosmetology

Hernandez, Joseph 鈥� Electrical Technician

Snooiks, Cortez 鈥� Electrical Technician

Redd, Josiah 鈥� Electrical Technician

Larkin, Hayden 鈥� Electrical Technician

Michael, Logan 鈥� HVAC Technician

Graham, Matthew 鈥� HVAC Technician

Hall, Ryan 鈥� HVAC Technician

Harris, Sidney 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Blevins, Janel 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Shomo, Rebecca 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Ohler, Chad 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Czegan, Cassandra 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

May, Heather 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Sinclair, Sydney 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Putlovis, Chasity 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Scaletta, Joshua 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Coppetti, Alex 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Miller, Jordan 鈥� Nursing

Bednarz, John 鈥� Nursing

Munger, Jenna 鈥� Nursing

Dixon, Allison 鈥� Nursing

Woodford, Kayla 鈥� Nursing

Swifter, Zachary 鈥� Nursing

Gibson, Kaitlyn 鈥� Nursing

Fullmer, Damian 鈥� Nursing

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.49 to 3.25, receiving Honors:听

Marshian, Bryce 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Lowry, Gage 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Brandau, Brooklyn 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Kniceley, Carley 鈥� Cardiovascular Technology

Wolfe, Angela 鈥� Cosmetology

Ross, Brody 鈥� Electrical Technician

Spear, Jesse 鈥� Electrical Technician

Smith, Colin 鈥� Electrical Technician

Gunnison Jr., Wayne 鈥� HVAC Technician

Mace, Robert 鈥� HVAC Technician

Beckwith, Garrett 鈥� HVAC Technician

Tingler, Peyton 鈥� HVAC Technician

Clark Jr., Clinton 鈥� HVAC Technician

Ramirez, Marina 鈥� HVAC Technician

Rankin, Crystal 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Steban, Kristina 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Nicholson, Emily 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Walker, Taylor 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Bitner, Emily Paige 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Lovelace, Ashley 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Mills, Caressa 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Burns, Brandon 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Galan, Madyson 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Page, Abigail 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Musonda, Chilufya 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Bossart, Savana 鈥� LPN to ADN Transition

Elliott, Liam 鈥� Nursing

Whiteman, Jamie 鈥� Nursing

Myers, Tarayn 鈥� Nursing

Statler, Kenly 鈥� Nursing

Morales, Josefina 鈥� Nursing

Felton, Jenna 鈥� Nursing

Dalton, Taylor 鈥� Nursing

Walnoha, Dalton 鈥� Nursing

Hart, Alexis 鈥� Nursing

Kolar, Acelyn 鈥� Nursing

Council, Joseph 鈥� Nursing

Peters, Emily 鈥� Nursing

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� 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.

The Uniontown campus for Laurel Technical Institute is pleased to announce the Dean’s List recipients for the Fall 2025 semester.

Having Earned a Grade Point Average of 4.0 to 3.8, receiving Highest Honors:听

Tucker Anderson

Sarah Ankrom

Moriah Arnold

Angelica Baeza

Karleigh Baker

Brett Brown

Caleb Compton

Madyson Debolt

Jacob Dell

Gabrielle Dorreman

Ethan Genovese

Joshua Gerlachovsky

Kira Goodwin

Joshua Jordan

Jacob Lowe

Emily Miklos

Makalia Morrell

Morgan Pecsko

Dusty Plume

Robert Santore

Andrew Shoemaker

Jessica Thompson

Selena Villanueva

Allison Wilson

Jacob Davis

Christopher Hawk

Olivia Goulding

Kameren Arnoni

Caton Ruvalcaba

Logan Thomas

Joshua Curry-Jones

Tyler Sheets

Daniel Archibald

Raven Bierman

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.79 to 3.5, receiving High Honors:

Eve Breese

Mason Hega

Chase Hernley

Phillip Arnold

Tyler Hart

Joshua Luff

Leigha Miller

Kenzie Teets

Christian Palm

Ethan Bowser

Cyle Shumar

Connor Artice

Emma Karchnak

Isabella Johnson

Karee Jordan

Brayden Kelley

Emma McGee

Sierra Murphy

Having earned a Grade Point Average of 3.49 to 3.25, receiving Honors:听

Kaylee Clark

Jacob Jordan

Haleah McClain

Christian Moser

Garrett King

Kaylee Ptak

Isaiah Dressel

Howard Clevenger

Ethan Nguyen

Emily Guess

Tyler Stickle

Anei Toaisi

Receiving recognition for Perfect Attendance:听

Tucker Anderson

Caleb Compton

Madyson Debolt

Joshua Gerlachovsky

Kira Goodwin

Joshua Jordan

Emily Miklos

Makalia Morrell

Robert Santore

Allison Wilson

Kameren Arnoni

Logan Thomas

Alysha Bouvy

Brandon Dodd

Christina Griest

Harmony Sledge

Arionna Smith

Juliann Watson

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� 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.

UNIONTOWN, P.A., JANUARY 29th, 2026 – Laurel Technical Institute held graduation on January 15th, 2026, at the State Theater in Uniontown, PA. Opening comments were given by Nancy Decker, President and CEO of 91福利社, 鈥淭his is a time to celebrate all the hard work you鈥檝e put forth in the recent months of your life,鈥� says Decker, 鈥測ou鈥檝e put in the time, the effort, and the dedication and here you are. Congratulations to each of you, we are all very proud of you.鈥�

Assistant Campus Director, McKenna Gower, recognized the class Valedictorians, Nicholas Loughner, MercMedes Bando, Tina Dean, and Kevin Hendrix. Gower then recognized class salutatorians James Cessna and Alexis Pritts. Next to be recognized were the January 2026 Distinguished Graduates Kevin Hendrix and Lucas Stevens. Hendrix and Stevens were also recognized for membership into the Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society. Assistant Campus Director, McKenna Gower, then presented the Degree and Diplomas to the graduates. The Career Services department reported that 74% of the January 2026 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:听

Degree Programs:

Early Childhood Education

Kyndra Rose Tucker

Medical Billing & Coding

Miranda Arnold

Kaleigh Jo Lynn

Electrical Technician听

James Cessna听

Matthew Costello听

Josiah Dauria听

Geno DeChessero听

Jace Deli听

Brody Dix听

Nicholas Loughner听

Mark Martini听

Ramani Pirl听

Brandon Rapchak听

Noah Ritchie听

Jacob Thomas听

Diploma Programs:

Clinical Medical Assistant听

Cassy C Knisell

Kaitlyn Eileen Wright听

Cosmetology听

Meredith Kinneer听

Valerie Means听

Alexis Pritts听

Carleigh Riley听

Esthetics & Nail Technician

Mercedes Bando听

Tia Dean听

Practical Nursing

Noelle Bernier

Andres Cardona

Angel Dennison

Vada Glover

Kevin Hendrix听

Shawna Hileman听

Emily Hutchison

Gabrielle Kobaly

Kaylee McClead

Olivia Sanders

Mackenzie Jordan Sanner

Shalea Smith

Raven Darryle Thornton

Lynda N. Weaver

Welding & Fabrication with Pipeline Technology听

Lucas Stevens听

Front Row, Left to Right: Shawna Hileman, Kevin Hendrix, James Cessna, Mercedes Bando, Tia Dean, Lucas Stevens, Alexis Pritts, Standing-Lynn Weaver

Second Row, Left to Right: Raven Thornton, Valerie Means, Carleigh Riley, Meredith Kinneer, Kaitlyn Wright, Brandon Rapchak, Kaleigh Jo Lynn, Miranda Arnold, Kendra Tucker, Cassy Knisell,听 Angel Dennison听

Third Row, Left to Right: Noelle Bernier, Olivia Sanders, Matthew Costello, Jace Deli, Noah Ritchie, Ramani Pirl, Jacob Thomas, Geno DeChessero.

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听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.

FORT MILL, S.C., JANUARY 27th, 2026 – Laurel College of Technology held graduation on January 21st, 2026, at their campus in, Fort Mill S.C. Opening comments were given by Dr. Douglas Decker, COO of 91福利社, 鈥淭his is a time to celebrate all the hard work you鈥檝e put forth in the recent months of your life,鈥� says Decker, 鈥測ou鈥檝e put in the time, the effort, and the dedication and here you are. Congratulations to each of you, we are all very proud of you.鈥�

Assistant Campus Director, Cindy Carey, recognized the class Valedictorian, Allison Williams. Carey then recognized the class salutatorian Apollonia Moore. Next to be recognized were the January 2026 Distinguished Graduates Allison Williams, Apollonia Moore, Stacey Haese, and Michael Collins. Assistant Campus Director, Cindy Carey, then presented the Degree and Diplomas to the graduates. The Career Services department reported that 100% of the January 2026 graduating class have accepted employment offers within their program of study. The following students were awarded diplomas s in the following programs:听

Electrical Systems Technician听

Michael Collins

Apollonia Moore

Nuriel Orozco

Cardiovascular Technology

Rahnneisha Douglas

Jordan Goolic

Stacey Haese

Marquisha Ross

Shareena Smith
Allison Williams

Left to right, first row: RAHNNEISHA DOUGLAS, MARQUISHA ROSS

Left to right, second row: ALLISON WILLIAMS, MICHAEL COLLINS, SHAREENA SMITH

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker,听91福利社 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 V Medical Building. For more information, visit听laurel.edu or call 803-802-0700.

Laurel Technical Institute, Uniontown鈥檚 local career and technical school, celebrated its 40th year on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Marking four decades since its founding in 1985, Laurel used this milestone not just to commemorate its growth from a single campus to six locations, but primarily to express gratitude for the trust, collaboration, and support received from local families, employers, and government partners. Laurel welcomed local Premier Employee Partners, students and alumni, local dignitaries, and dedicated community members to celebrate with a specialized career fair and luncheon in the Laurel Center.

When Laurel Business Institute first opened its doors in 1985, it operated with just a handful of programs focused on secretarial, accounting, and banking skills. Nancy Decker, President and CEO for Laurel, recalls, 鈥淢y late husband, Chris Decker, was the head of HR for Gallatin Bank and was tired of not having qualified candidates to work, so he decided we were going to start a school and train them, and we did!鈥� Over the years, the institution has successfully navigated technological shifts and economic cycles, constantly adapting its curriculum to remain on the cutting edge of industry requirements.

During the Luncheon, Nancy Decker and son, Dr. Douglas Decker took time to reflect on special memories and recognize students, employers, and faculty members with awards and gratitude toward the support they have seen over the years. First to be recognized by Uniontown鈥檚 Campus Director, McKenna Gower,听 were the Distinguished Graduates for the class of January 2026. Gower expressed pride for the award recipients, recognizing their hard work, great attendance, and willingness to be helpful to their instructors and classmates. Candidates must also have a QPA of 3.0, and at least 90% attendance. She recognized Practical Nursing graduate, Kevin Hendrix, and Lucas Stevens, Welding & Fabrication graduate with a certificate of achievement.

Next to be recognized was one of Laurel鈥檚 Premier Employer Partners, Automated Logic. Automated Logic and the 91福利社 partnered to help build a new generation of technicians while outfitting campuses in three states with the latest technology in building automation systems. Dr. Decker thanked Automated Logic for their dedication and willingness to provide training and equipment to the campuses.

Finally, Ms. Nancy Decker presented a special Presidential Award to Mrs. Bonnie Marsh, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Executive Director. Nancy states, 鈥淭he Presidential Award is presented to someone who exceeds expectations and believes in the quality and effectiveness of the work we do here. The recipient displays helpful and听 responsible management skills for the team they work with, while being supportive and compassionate to the community of Laurel.鈥�

鈥淐elebrating 40 years is truly a humbling experience, and it鈥檚 a moment of reflection and deep gratitude,鈥� said Dr. Douglas Decker, Chief Operating Officer for Laurel. 鈥淲e held this event to honor the trinity that we do this for: our students, our employers, and our community. 鈥�

Along with students, employers, and alumni, Laurel was also joined for this celebration by local dignitaries such as State Senator, Pat Stefano, who recognized Laurel鈥檚 40 years of business and community involvement with a certification of recognition. Also joining Laurel to present a certificate of recognition was Debbie Hoone, a representative from Charity Grimm Krupa House of Representative member. Finally welcomed up to present Laurel with a certificate of appreciation was Fayette County Commissioner Vince Vicites. Ms. Nancy Decker and son, Dr. Douglas Decker, were honored to accept these recognitions and extremely pleased to have such great advocates for local business and education in attendance.

Laurel offers more than 20 educational programs designed with input from local industry advisory boards. This ensures that every certification, degree, or diploma earned is highly valued in the current industries. Programs range from practical nursing and respiratory therapy, to welding and electrical technician, computer network security, and cosmetology arts. In response to the growth and changes that Laurel has seen, earlier in 2025, they announced that the naming convention of Laurel Business Institute would modernize to Laurel Technical Institute. This specific naming convention for LTI, Laurel Technical Institute, has been part of the Laurel school system since 2009, with locations in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The impetus for the change after 40 years, is the addition of a new satellite location of the Uniontown campus in Penn Township, located in Northern Westmoreland County. Nancy Decker, said that 鈥楾he timing was right with the launch of our new location to bring all of our Pennsylvania schools together under one name.鈥�

As Laurel Technical Institute steps into its fifth decade, the institution is reaffirming its commitment to future innovation. Plans are underway to integrate more specialized training programs ensuring Laurel remains a relevant and vital resource for the workforce of tomorrow and the students who want the opportunity to make an impact on the community and their future.

鈥淥ur commitment remains to the communities across our six campuses,鈥� states Dr. Decker, 鈥淲e will continue to listen, adapt, and invest in the resources necessary to keep our programs relevant and the opportunity accessible. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for 40 incredible years. We look forward to continuing growth and legacy for many decades to come.鈥�

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听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.

PENN TOWNSHIP, P.A., JULY 9, 2025 鈥� In an effort to meet the growing need for nursing staff in local healthcare systems, Laurel Technical Institute is excited to announce the addition of its twelve-month Practical Nurse program to the new Penn Township location. Classes will start this September in the brand new, 15,000 square foot facility, located near Murrysville, just outside of Pittsburgh. For 40 years, LTI has delivered high-quality healthcare and nursing education to the Southwestern and Northwestern regions of Pennsylvania. This location gives communities closer to Pittsburgh the opportunity to experience LTI closer to home. Students will learn current industry skills in the new simulation lab before beginning their direct client care clinicals, which are coordinated and supervised by Laurel鈥檚 faculty and local clinical partners.

鈥淭his program offers a unique curriculum designed to provide the student with clinical and simulation experiences up to four days a week prior to graduation,鈥� states Dr. Michelle Borland, Vice President of Nursing for Laurel, 鈥淭his will better prepare the student for the role of the practical nurse in today鈥檚 healthcare environments in long-term, acute and primary care settings鈥� This 12-month diploma program is offered to students in Penn Township and surrounding areas, the campus is located at 1100 Randall Court, Suite 100 in Export, PA. It provides students access to a new learning simulation lab and provides hands-on experience that students will utilize throughout the program to prepare them for certifications, critical thinking, and patient care. The curriculum students will take includes courses in Nutrition Therapy, Fundamentals of Nursing, Human Growth & Development, Medical Surgical Nursing, Certification Prep and much more! 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 Business Institute has established healthcare affiliations with WVU Medicine-Uniontown Hospital, Ruby Memorial Hospital, Mon Health Hospital, We Care, as well as Independence Health Westmoreland Hospital and Jefferson Hospital. We also have great partnerships with Mt. Macrina, LaFayette Manor, Quality Life Services -South Fayette Nursing Center, and Henry Clay Villa. The students of Laurel Technical Institute鈥檚 healthcare programs will receive invaluable clinical experiences from all affiliations.

Co-located in the Penn Trafford School District鈥檚 Administrative building, the satellite location of LTI Uniontown also offers programs such as Electrical Technician and Computer Network Security Technology. 鈥淲e opened a school in Penn Township because we learned that the community and employers in the Route 22 corridor are rapidly expanding and in need of more highly trained technical and allied health professionals,鈥� said Nancy Decker, president of 91福利社. 鈥淲e鈥檙e excited about being in this region because of the partnerships that we have forged with Penn Trafford School District and local employers. To sustain the growth in the area, the community is in need of skilled technicians so businesses can continue to grow and serve the community鈥檚 residents. The community has been extremely welcoming and supportive of this location. Furthermore, being born and raised in Westmoreland County, we felt a strong connection to this area, and it was the perfect fit for us.鈥�

Conveniently located in Bushy Run Corporate Park, Laurel Technical Institute is a short drive from the intersection of Route 22 and Route 66 in Export, PA. For more information, visit www.laurel.edu or call 724-439-4900. Laurel is excitedly accepting applications for our September 8th class start! Find more information on the program and admission requirements at laurel.edu/laurel.edu/practical-nursing.

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute, LCOT 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. Licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, provisionally accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,500 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.

About Automated Logic: Automated Logic Corporation provides innovative building management solutions that maximize energy efficiency and sustainable building operation while ensuring comfort. Its intuitive products control and monitor building functions such as heating, air conditioning and lighting for commercial office, education, health care, government and data center markets through a global network of independent dealers and North American branch offices. Automated Logic is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, the leading global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. For more information, visit听听or follow听听on听.

About Carrier Founded by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier is a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier experts provide sustainable solutions, integrating energy-efficient products, building controls and energy services for residential, commercial, retail, transport and food service customers. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions that matter for people and our planet for generations to come. For more information, visit听听or follow us on听听and听听on X.

About Laurel:听 Founded in 1985 as Laurel Technical Institute is a private, post-secondary, specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with five locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, South Carolina and North Central West Virginia. Laurel is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and awarded 鈥楨ssential Workforce Skills (EWS) Level II’ credentialing;听 Laurel has over 525 current students and 5,800 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, and technology. Learn more at听.

LAUREL BUSINESS INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES NAME CHANGE TO LAUREL TECHNICAL INSTITUTE

UNIONTOWN, P.A., April 10, 2025 – After 40 years, Laurel Business Institute has modernized its name to Laurel Technical Institute. 鈥楾hat鈥檚 right, LBI is now LTI,鈥欌�櫶� said Doug Decker, COO for the 91福利社. The naming convention for LTI, Laurel Technical Institute, has been part of the Laurel school system since 2009, presiding over their locations in Northwestern Pennsylvania.听

The original Uniontown location has been Laurel Business Institute since its inception in 1985. At that time, the school housed mainly business-related programs, including secretarial studies, accounting, data processing, and others. However, over the years, as technology and the community鈥檚 needs in the workforce have evolved, so did Laurel. The school rapidly expanded into computer technology, medical and allied health programs which now includes nursing, cosmetology, skilled trades and many more. Therefore, adopting the name of its sister school made sense for the organization to better align its name with the program offerings.听

The impetus for the change after 40 years, is the addition of a new satellite location of the Uniontown campus in Penn Township located in Northern Westmoreland county. Nancy Decker, President and CEO of the Laurel schools, said that 鈥楾he timing was right with the launch of our new location to bring all of our Pennsylvania schools together under one name.鈥� Laurel is in the process this spring of updating signage and facades around their three building, 4-acre, 80,000-square-foot campus located downtown. The school plans to hold an open house event later this spring to display their continued commitment to and investment in Fayette County. Later this year, Laurel plans to hold a showcase to celebrate the school鈥檚 40th anniversary and recognize alumni and the employer community鈥檚 longtime support of the organization.听

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 鈥楽chool of Distinction鈥� by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges,听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.