Join us for the Greater Alleghenies Brewing Symposium on June 23, 2025, at Saint Francis University! This exciting event will bring together brewing enthusiasts, industry professionals, and academics for a day of learning, networking, and celebration of the region's brewing culture.

Event Highlights:

Sessions: Hear from local brewers, vintners, and distillers, along with SFU faculty, on a variety of brewing-related topics, from experience to business to science.

- Networking: Connect with peers, professionals, and educators who share your passion for brewing and fermentation.

- Giveaways: All attendees will receive an SFU pennant, glass, and bag. 

Ticket Information:

- Cost: $20 per person. Breakfast and lunch are included. 

Event Schedule:

9:00 AM-10:00 AM - Registration and social gathering with coffee and pastries

10:00 AM - Welcome

Mr. Matt Fox, VP Business Retention & Expansion, Altoona Blair County Development Corporation;

Dr. Pete Skoner, Dean Emeritus & Assistant to the President, SFU; Dr. Arthur Remillard, Dean of STEAM, SFU

10:15 AM-1100AM: Session 1: Crafting Success: Challenges, Innovations, and the Future of Brewing, Distilling, and Winemaking

Mr. Jay Herman, Levity Brewing Company; Mr. Perry Flaugh, 814 Distillery; Mr. Scott Schraff, Oak Spring Winery; Mrs. Ashley Angel, Woody Lodge Winery

This open conversation featuring industry leaders from the region will explore the craft and business of brewing, distilling, and winemaking. Panelists will share insights into their processes, discuss challenges they’ve faced, and highlight recent innovations in their respective fields. This session is designed to be an interactive dialogue, where participants are encouraged to ask questions, share their experiences, and engage in a lively exchange of ideas with fellow professionals and enthusiasts.

11:00AM-11:15AM - Break

11:15 AM-12:00 PM: Session 2: Session 2: Turning Craft into Commerce: Navigating the Business of Brewing, Distilling, and Winemaking

Mr. Jeffery Boldizar, Director, Small Business Development Center, SFU; Dr. Kent Tonkin, Associate Professor, Shields School of Business, SFU

Success in brewing, distilling, and winemaking goes beyond the craft and requires sound business strategy. This session will provide valuable insights into business development, financial planning, and industry trends. Learn how SFU’s Small Business Development Center and business faculty can serve as a resource to help navigate challenges and grow your venture.

12:00 PM-1:00 PM: Catered Lunch and Networking

1:15 PM-2:00 PM—Session 3: Science on Tap: How SFU Supports Brewing, Distilling, and Winemaking

Dr. Ben Smith, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, SFU; Dr. Justin Ingram, Associate Professor of Biology, Penn College of Technology

Led by two experts in fermentation science, this session will highlight the resources held at SFU, including advanced equipment, quality testing capabilities, and support for industry professionals. You will learn how the university can assist with specific brewing and distilling challenges while potentially assisting our students, who can learn directly from industry professionals.

2:00 PM-3:00 PM—Bring a Bottle, Share a Story: A Tasting of Regional Craft Beverages

All attendees are asked to bring a bottle of their beer, wine, or spirits to share as we wrap up the symposium with a tasting—an opportunity to sample regional craftsmanship, exchange ideas, and celebrate the industry together.

3:00 PM—Closing

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enhance your brewing knowledge, engage with the community, and explore the future of the craft beverage industry in the Alleghenies. Secure your spot today!