Bridging Education and Community at Thaddeus Stevens College
In the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a new beacon of hope and opportunity is rising. The Steinman Community Learning Center at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is set to become a vital hub for education, childcare, and community engagement. This innovative project, which held a groundbreaking on September 24, 2024, embodies the College’s commitment to creating equitable access to higher education and supporting the local community.
A Legacy of Community Partnership
For nearly 125 years, Thaddeus Stevens College has been a cornerstone of educational opportunity in Lancaster. With over 1,500 students currently enrolled in its career pathway programs, the college continues to focus on equity, inclusion, access, and community connection. The new Steinman Center is a natural extension of this mission, designed to serve not just students but the entire Lancaster community.
The Center’s Three-Pronged Approach
The 14,000-square-foot, two-story building will house three key components:
1. Childcare Center: Recognizing the challenges many students and community members face in accessing education due to childcare needs, the center will feature a state-of-the-art childcare facility. Operated by Community Action Partnership (CAP), it will provide care for up to 50 children from newborn to age five. This addresses a critical gap in Lancaster’s childcare landscape, offering high-quality, affordable care and wraparound support through CAP’s Thrive to Five program.
2. STEM Makerspace: The second floor will host a cutting-edge space for K-12 students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math. This area aims to spark interest in technical careers early, potentially opening pathways to higher education for students who might not have considered it before.
3. Community Meeting Space: Understanding that education extends beyond the classroom, the center will provide versatile meeting spaces for community events, gatherings, and collaborations.
Investing in the Future
With a total cost of $6.8 million, partially funded by the Steinman Foundation, this project represents a significant investment in Lancaster’s future. It aligns perfectly with Thaddeus Stevens College’s mission to create opportunities for access to higher education, develop programs leading to family-sustaining wages, and support the regional and state workforce and economy.
A Model of Accessibility and Opportunity
Thaddeus Stevens College itself stands as a model of accessible education. With annual tuition at just $9,000 and 90% of students receiving financial aid, the College removes many barriers to higher education. Its Short-term Workforce Center programs, professional development courses, and strong partnerships with local businesses further enhance its value to the community.
Looking Ahead
As construction begins, the excitement is palpable. President Pedro Rivera emphasizes, “This project demonstrates the deep connection Thaddeus Stevens College has with our community, and our dedication to creating pathways to education with a focus on equity.”
The Steinman Community Learning Center is more than just a building; it’s a testament to what can be achieved when education and community come together. Set to open its doors in late 2025, it promises to be a transformative force in Lancaster, nurturing young minds, supporting families, and strengthening community bonds for generations to come.