In a heartwarming tribute to community values and education, Angeline and Conrad Kotlowski’s legacy continues to flourish in Wilkes-Barre. The couple, known for raising six children and nurturing neighborhood kids as their own, now extend their influence to even more students.
A recent event marked the announcement of a new endowed scholarship at Luzerne County Community College (LCCC) in partnership with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, designed to provide financial support to local high school students.
The Angeline & Conrad Kotlowski College-Ready Scholarship Endowment will enable students from the district to earn college credits through LCCC’s College Ready Program without the financial burden typically associated with such opportunities. This initiative aims to instill confidence and readiness for higher education.
Superintendent Brian Costello emphasized the significance of the program, stating, “The impact of the program is truly about opportunity. It’s something that will give not only this class but future classes, generations, an opportunity to experience what some of our kids have been able to experience right now. So we’re just very grateful and appreciative for everything that they have done for us.”
Remembering the Kotlowskis’ Contributions
Angeline Kotlowski, affectionately known as Angie, has been a cornerstone of community efforts, including serving as president of the parent-teacher organization at Heights Elementary School. Her late husband, Conrad, who passed away in 2004, was also deeply invested in local youth sports and community activities.
John Yudichak, President of LCCC, remarked, “Just think of how many young lives were shaped by Conrad and Angie. Thousands of them. Thousands of boys and girls who grew up in Wilkes-Barre and found their lives touched by a lot of love and kindness from Conrad and Angie Kotlowski.”
Angie, a Wilkes-Barre native and Coughlin High School alumnus, expressed her gratitude at the event, saying, “It’s a beautiful program, and I certainly hope that all the students get to utilize this great gift.”
Conrad, who hailed from Wilkes-Barre Township and served as a Marine during the Korean Conflict, was remembered fondly for his quiet dedication to community service, a sentiment echoed by their daughter, Carol Keup, who helped establish the endowment.
Keup addressed the audience, reflecting on the couple’s impact, “These college courses are a step that takes you to your next step, and it’s really a privilege for us … to be involved with that and to be able to provide that opportunity.”
Enhancing Educational Opportunities
Since its inception in 2015, the LCCC/Wilkes-Barre Area College Ready Program has aimed to prepare students for college by enhancing their skills in math and English. It offers high school students the chance to take college-level courses, earn credits, and experience a taste of college life.
A former participant, Simon Peter, who is now a lawyer, shared his experience, “I had the opportunity to walk across stage as an 18-year-old kid out of high school and have college credits and have that stepping stone. Education will take you to heights and places that are unimaginable to you at this young age. Continue to pursue your dreams and make the most of these opportunities.”
The newly established scholarship aims to ease the financial burden for eligible students, allowing them to benefit from the program without worrying about tuition costs.
John Yudichak highlighted the lasting impact of the Kotlowskis’ influence, saying, “Lives will be changed for the better. Families will grow stronger, and the place you call home, the great city of Wilkes-Barre, will become even greater because of the kindness and love you have shown here today to the children of the Wilkes-Barre Area School District.”
