First Citizens Community Bank supports Arts Center educational programs with EITC donation
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Matthew DeSanto (left), relationship manager associate for First Citizens Community Bank; Ana Gonzalez-White (center), development director for the Community Arts Center; and Peg Shaffer, relationship manager, vice president for First Citizens Community Bank, gather to celebrate the bank’s contribution to the Arts Center’s educational programming.
First Citizens Community Bank has made a generous contribution to the Penn College Community Arts Center through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program. This donation will directly support the Art Center’s educational initiatives, ensuring that students across the region have access to transformative arts experiences.
“The Community Arts Center plays a vital role in our community, enriching our lives with music, theatre, and dance,” said Randy Black, president and CEO of First Citizens Community Bank. “As a true community bank, we’re proud to support its mission with resources that help connect local students with educational opportunities and programming in the arts.”
The educational programs bring live performances and interactive learning opportunities to thousands of students each year. With the support of First Citizens Community Bank, the Arts Center will continue to provide hands-on arts education that inspires creativity and fosters lifelong appreciation for the arts.
“We believe exposure to the arts is fundamental to a well-rounded education,” said Ana I Gonzalez-White, the center’s development director. “This donation by First Citizens Community Bank plays a vital role in enriching the lives of young people and allows us to continue to offer more vibrant programs.”
The EITC program allows businesses to redirect tax dollars to approved educational organizations, amplifying the impact of community investment.
In addition to EITC support, funding for the educational programs is derived from various sources, including individual donations, corporate sponsorships and grants. For more information about giving opportunities, contact Gonzalez-White at 570-327-7657 or email awhite@caclive.com.
About the Penn College Community Arts Center
The Arts Center is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the region through the arts. By presenting diverse performances, educational programs and community initiatives, the center fosters creativity, learning and cultural enrichment for audiences of all ages. To learn more about its upcoming events, visit www.caclive.com. The Community Arts Center is owned and operated by Pennsylvania College of Technology, a national leader in applied technology education. For more information about the college, visit www.pct.edu.