Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti Speaking at Prestigious Harvard JFK Jr. Forum  

"Revitalizing America's Heartland Cities: A Turnaround Story” and Scranton’s Financial Resurgence will highlight Thursday’s discussion 

PRESS RELEASE: APRIL 17, 2025

CAMBRIDGE, MASS.  – The City of Scranton and its unprecedented financial recovery will take center stage once again this Thursday when Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti speaks at Harvard University’s premier arena for political speech, discussion and debate: The JFK Jr. Forum at the Institute of Politics (IOP).

Mayor Cognetti will be joined by Gary, Indiana Mayor Eddie D. Melton and Syracuse, New York Mayor Ben Walsh for a panel discussion titled, "Revitalizing America's Heartland Cities: A Turnaround Story.”

“After decades of disinvestment and post-industrial decline, some U.S. cities are leading revitalization efforts, driving economic growth and attracting new residents,” the IOP describes on its website. “This panel conversation will explore how mayors are addressing economic, social and environmental challenges to make progress towards recovery and regrowth.”

It's been a busy week for the City of Scranton. On Wednesday, Mayor Cognetti and her City Hall team were recognized in Harrisburg at the 2025 Governor’s Awards for Local Government Excellence in recognition of the city’s “outstanding economic, community and financial achievements under the leadership of Mayor Paige Cognetti.”

“The ongoing recognition of what we’ve been able to accomplish in Scranton is a testament to the collective hard work and dedication of city employees, business owners and members of the community,” Mayor Cognetti said. “We remain laser focused on moving the city forward and I’m incredibly proud to lead such an incredible team.”  

Since assuming office in 2020, Mayor Cognetti has proven to be a results-driven leader, committed to long-term growth and improving the quality of life for Scranton residents and businesses. A tireless advocate for good government and transparency, she has championed public safety, upgrading city parks and pools, repairing aging infrastructure, and driving economic development and growth.