With community support behind her
The Corry Higher Education Council (CHEC) is celebrating a powerful success story that perfectly illustrates the transformative potential of two of its signature initiatives: the 21st Century Girls Program and the PA Broadband Authority’s Digital Connectivity Technology Program (DCTP).
This summer, one participant from the 2025 21st Century Girls cohort, Azlynn Kobal took the skills, confidence, and exposure she gained during the program and turned them into something remarkable — a business idea of her own. Recognizing her ambition and readiness to act, she applied for a laptop through CHEC’s DCTP grant program to begin bringing her vision to life.
“This is exactly the kind of outcome we hope for,” said Executive Director, Dr. Matthew Platz, “When a young woman from our community is inspired to pursue entrepreneurship and is empowered with both the tools and the confidence to do so — that’s impact. That’s why these programs matter.” Azlynn Kobal, a 13-year-old participant of the 21st Century Girls and Digital Connectivity Technology program said, “-“I did the 21st Century Girls Program and I didn’t really know what it was about, but after the 1st day I loved it and couldn’t wait for the next day! Every day was like a new adventure. I liked that it was an all-girls program because it encourages us that we can do anything and be successful. It was an amazing program, and I would jump at the chance to go again! I thought it was great when they told us about the laptop program and how it helped people have opportunities. All the visits we went to during the 21st Century Girls inspired me to want to build my own business, so I asked my mom to help me do the Laptop Program and help me start to create my own business.”
Nurturing Innovation, One Girl at a Time
Held each June, the 21st Century Girls Program introduces local middle school girls to STEAM fields, professional settings, and leadership opportunities through a hands-on, four-day schedule. Students visit real workplaces, engage in engineering and tech-based activities, and learn from female professionals in industries like AI, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Through interactive sessions, mentorship, and team-building experiences, the program encourages young women to think bigger — and to believe that their ideas and futures matter.
Technology Access That Opens Doors
Funded by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority’s Capital Projects Fund, CHEC’s Digital Connectivity Technology Program helps eliminate one of the greatest barriers to opportunity: lack of access to reliable devices. By completing two digital literacy courses, community members can earn access to a loaner laptop, equipping them to pursue education, employment, telehealth, or — in this case — entrepreneurship.
This program is particularly targeted at individuals in low-income or rural areas, who often find themselves on the wrong side of the digital divide. No-cost access to devices is a critical step toward ensuring equity in today’s digital economy.
A Model for Rural Empowerment
Together, these two initiatives demonstrate the power of local investment in youth, technology, and forward-thinking programming. In a region where opportunity can feel out of reach, Corry is building a new model — one where young people are seen, supported, and equipped to thrive.
“Azlynn’s story is a preview of what’s possible,” said Dr. Matthew Platz. “Imagine what our community could look like if every girl felt empowered to dream big and had the tools to chase those dreams.”
For More Information
To learn more about the 21st Century Girls Program or the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, contact the Corry Higher Education Council at 814-664-9405 or visit www.corryhied.org
