Courtesy photo From left, Steve Nunez, president of Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, Carole VanMeter, director of the college foundation, and Sean McCool, 1st Summit Bank assistant vice president and business relationship manager, pose for a photo showing the bank’s donation to the college foundation on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

JOHNSTOWN — The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Foundation has received a $2,500 donation from 1st Summit Bank, with the contribution being directed toward the college’s Educational Income Tax Credit (EITC) fund.

The donation will empower the bank and other institutions to provide valuable support to the educational initiatives offered by the college.

This contribution plays a pivotal role in facilitating reduced-price class offerings for students enrolled in the Accelerated College Education (ACE) Program or participating in dual enrollment.

“Thanks to 1st Summit Bank’s continued investment in the EITC program, more students can experience college-level learning while still in high school,” said Carole VanMeter, director of the foundation. “Their support keeps ACE and Dual Enrollment tuition among the lowest in the region, opening doors for families, and helping students prepare for successful futures.”

EITC provides high school students with the opportunity to enroll in college-level courses. By earning credits through this program, students can explore the offerings of Penn Highlands and gain valuable insights into their prospects.

Since 2023, the EITC Program has received more than $35,000 in funding. enabling the college to provide over 2,000 participating students with more than 7,000 credits at discounted rates.