Carbon Career and Technical Institute awarded the Kovatch family of Nesquehoning with a proclamation honoring the late John 'Sonny' Kovatch Jr. on Wednesday afternoon. The Kovatch family was also invited to have lunch with members of the administration at CCTI's Harvest Café.

John 'Sonny' Kovatch Jr. was the founder of KME Kovatch. KME is known for giving to the community, including CCTI."They (KME) donate to CCTI financially and they offer co-op positions to the students," stated CCTI Joint Operating Committee member, Andrew Yenser. "They really support the school."There are approximately 15 CCTI students working as Co-op's for KME. Students training in auto body, electrical, welding, and marketing have the opportunity to utilize their skills by getting hands on experience at KME.Students graduating from CCTI in these trades also have the opportunity to apply to KME. "Many employees at KME are CCTI graduates," stated son of John 'Sonny' Kovatch Jr. and President and CEO of KME Kovatch, John Kovatch III.John Kovatch III himself graduated from CCTI in the auto body trade.In February, the Joint Operating Committee and administration of CCTI voted to give a proclamation honoring Sonny Kovatch to his family."We wanted to honor the family for all they have done at CCTI," said Administrative Director, David Reinbold. "We have always had a good relationship with the Kovatch family."The proclamation plague was presented by Reinbold to Sonny Kovatch's wife, Helen.The proclamation stated that CCTI, "acknowledges to them (the family) our gratitude and sincerest respect for his dedication and devotion to the students of Carbon Career and Technical Institute." The proclamation also stated, "Mr. Kovatch was one of Carbon Career and Technical Institute's most generous supporters.""We appreciate everything your family has done for the school. It means a lot especially between funding and getting the students placed in jobs," stated Yenser to the Kovatch family.