Shapiro Administration joined the celebration for the $1.3 million dollar investment in college offering in-demand trades and healthcare training 

Philadelphia, PA (December 11, 2024) Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services (JEVS), celebrated its 50th Anniversary Celebration on Wednesday, December 11th, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling its newly renovated campus in Northeast Philadelphia. The modernization project, funded by a $500,000 grant from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), was commemorated by dozens of state and local leaders, students, alumni, faculty, along with employer and community partners.  

The event featured remarks from JEVS President and CEO Cynthia F. Figueroa, as well as dignitaries including Pennsylvania Department of Labor Secretary Nancy Walker and State Representative Martina White.  

“Today, we honor 50 years of Orleans Technical College’s dedication to preparing individuals for meaningful, living-wage, high-demand careers,” said Cynthia F. Figueroa, JEVS President & CEO. “These efforts are a testament to our commitment to excellence and our belief in the transformative power of education and trades training. We are grateful to Governor Shapiro, Rep. Martina White, and all of our partners for investing in our vision to strengthen communities through creating sustainable paths to independence and economic security.” 

“For half a century, Orleans Technical College has empowered Pennsylvanians with the skills they need for family-sustaining careers,” said Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Walker. “The Shapiro Administration is proud to invest in this renovation, which ensures that Orleans Technical College can continue closing skills gaps and preparing students for high-demand jobs in our evolving economy.” 

 “Investments in facilities like this are critical to our community,” said PA State Representative, Martina White. “This effort demonstrates how we can all work together to expand educational opportunities and strengthen our community.” 

 The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by tours of the enhanced campus facilities, including upgraded security features, a newly designed open-air student lounge, and additional updates that give the campus a modern college feel and support Orleans Technical College’s growing programs.  

 The milestone celebration highlighted Orleans Technical College’s half-century legacy of career-focused education and reinforced its future as a hub for skilled trades and healthcare training. Since 1974, Orleans Technical College has helped thousands of individuals gain industry-recognized credentials and secure employment in high-demand fields. 

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