First of two Fall Open Houses sees attendance increase
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
photos by Anna E. Reed, photographer (student)
Guests look over their options during an Open House on Oct. 4 that drew more than 1,500 guests, 500 of whom are interested in enrolling at the college.
Summerlike weather made for the perfect setting this weekend as more than 1,500 guests visited Pennsylvania College of Technology for its first of two fall open houses.
Across its three campuses – the Schneebeli Earth Science Center, the Lumley Aviation Center and main campus – 519 prospective undergraduate and graduate students explored all that Penn College has to offer. Most students were Fall 2026 prospects (374), while 110 were interested in Fall 2027 or later. In addition to in-state guests, attendees traveled from Connecticut (12), Washington, D.C. (2), Delaware (3), Florida (1), Massachusetts (2), Maryland (23), New Jersey (44), New York (15), Ohio (2) and Virginia (6).
“The first Fall Open House of the semester greeted our campus with beautiful weather, and, in turn, we saw an 18% increase in student attendees from the October 2024 Open House,” said Claire Milliken, coordinator of admissions events & communications. “The day was full of activity throughout our on-campus labs.”
Guests could explore up to two programs with guided academic tours; visit an academic exploration fair; check out residence halls, athletics and The Dr. Welch Workshop; and enjoy lunch on main campus at Capitol Eatery or Keystone Dining Room, or at the Earth Science Center’s Nature’s Cove. Labs in Action, a new initiative that provides a chance to see live demonstrations and participate in interactive activities, was a popular addition to the day’s agenda.
“The Labs in Action were well-attended, and a huge hit,” Milliken said. “Our faculty and staff made a lasting impression on our prospective students and families, and since the event took place, 35 attendees have completed a Penn College application. Eleven students completed an undergraduate application during the afternoon portion of the Open House event. Thank you to everyone who assisted in making this event possible!”
The next Open House is set for Nov. 2. Visit the Open House page for more information.
Nathan W. Brown, an admissions tour guide and heavy construction equipment technology student, offers guidance to Open House guests.
Construction management students, joined by alumnus and faculty member Brandon L. Group, instructor of construction management, stand ready to greet guests wishing to know more about the popular major.
Group is among dozens of faculty members providing information sessions. Also providing sessions are ...
... Karen L. Avery, assistant professor of biology (general biology and microbiology) ...
... Brady L. Breon, director of paramedic programs ...
... Chef Charles R. Niedermyer, instructor of baking and pastry arts/culinary arts ...
... Kathryn M. Anderson, instructor of graphic design ...
... and Arthur L. Counterman, instructor of electrical technology/occupations.
Prospective students and their guests cross campus on their way to a wealth of welcoming activities.
Labs in Action prove popular among attendees. The new Open House initiative provided live demonstrations and interactive activities.
In the Electrical Technologies Center, students are on hand to share their perspectives.
The Campus Center serves as a hub for learning about the college’s 70-plus student organizations.
Just outside the Campus Center, the Penn College Motorsports Association invites prospective students to learn about its activities.
Clubhouse Concessions, a student-owned small business, offers sustenance.
A prospective student "maps" his Penn College future.