The Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) welcomed staff from across all programs to Coatesville Area High School on August 17 for its 2026 Opening Day Celebration, marking a significant milestone of 55 years of service to Chester County’s schools and students.The event brought together over 1,700 staff members across two sessions for a day of networking, light refreshments, and celebration. The program featured a welcome from Executive Director Dr. George F. Fiore, testimonials from parents and students, along with a keynote address from Akwi Nji, all speaking to the meaningful work happening across CCIU.
“I’m so inspired by Team CCIU every single day, and Opening Day was a perfect example of why. Hearing directly from the students and families we serve reminded all of us why this work matters. Our commitment to this community hasn’t wavered in 55 years, and I couldn’t be prouder of the people who bring that commitment to life every day,” said Dr. Fiore, CCIU executive director.
For 55 years, CCIU has served the educational needs of Chester County’s school districts through high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective programs and services that enhance the lives of learners, educators, and members of our communities.
Akwi Nji, artist, storyteller, and former educator whose work centers on connection, resilience, and our shared human experience, reflected on the event, “It was an honor to be part of the story CCIU is writing as an organization, to hear the testimonials, and to connect with staff one-on-one. I’m humbled by the work this team does, and I felt an immediate sense of community here. What a joy to contribute in this small but meaningful way.”
As CCIU looks ahead to another year of service, Opening Day is a reminder of the people, partnerships, and shared purpose behind 55 years of impact. To learn more about CCIU’s programs and services, visit www.cciu.org.
