Muhlenberg College Launches Strategic Program to Build Partnerships with Lehigh Valley Companies, Partners with Five of Region’s Largest Employers

The Corporate Affiliates Program is geared to forge and grow partnerships between the College and the regional workforce as well as to enhance access to a Muhlenberg education for more area employees.

By: Shane Baglini  Monday, April 3, 2023 03:38 PM

An image of Muhlenberg's campus in the fall.

Building on a long history of partnership with regional businesses, the goal of the Corporate Affiliates Program is to develop and provide educational opportunities for partner organizations' employees and their spouses, partners or children. Other benefits include scholarships and other resources that can make a difference when enrolling in master’s degrees, accelerated-degree completion or traditional undergraduate programs. 

Since launching the program late in 2022, Muhlenberg has welcomed five new partners: St. Luke’s University Health Network, B Braun Medical Inc., Just Born Quality Confections, Hospital Central Services and Affiliates, Inc./Miller-Keystone Blood Center and Lehigh Valley Health Network.

“It’s incredibly exciting to work with some of our region’s most dynamic employers,” says Muhlenberg President Kathleen Harring. “We couldn’t be prouder of these partnerships and the impact we can make together on our community. Strengthening our regional workforce through programs grounded in the liberal arts has been central to Muhlenberg’s mission for more than 100 years, and this program enhances that effort.”

Various levels of affiliate programs are available based on each organization's needs and goals. The College's faculty and subject matter experts will work with each employer to offer employee education and training that improves business outcomes while providing academic flexibility for busy schedules, including family obligations.

"Through our Corporate Affiliates Program, we are creating a pathway between leadership development and education within the communities we serve," says AJ Lemheney, vice president and executive director of Muhlenberg’s Division of Graduate and Continuing Education. "We are excited to collaborate with local businesses and help them provide customized solutions that enhance their workforce development."

Andrea Reger, Human Resources Generalist in Career Development with St. Luke's University Health Network, highlighted the importance of partnering with Muhlenberg College. "Learning and career development go hand in hand, and partnering with Muhlenberg allows St. Luke's employees to pursue career goals by continuing their education. We can connect SLUHN employees to professional development that supports diverse career interests."

Organizations interested in learning more about the program can contact Samantha Anglestein, Assistant Director, College Partnerships, at [email protected] or visit muhlenberg.edu/gce/corporatepartners

About Muhlenberg College School of Continuing Studies
The Muhlenberg College School of Continuing Studies has specialized in adult and continuing education for over 100 years, offering over 25 programs, including Accelerated and Traditional Bachelor's Degrees, Teacher Certification and a Certificate in Project Management. Our programs are built for the unique needs of the adult learner and provide flexible scheduling options because we believe education should not get in the way of your life.

About Muhlenberg College School of Graduate Studies
The Muhlenberg College School of Graduate Studies offers graduate degrees and certificates with multiple pathways that provide flexibility for students to create their own graduate experience. Programs are delivered in a format that blends in-person classroom discussions with online and virtual components.