PNRC Annual Awards Gala

The Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber recognizes excellence each year during our Annual Awards Gala.

The Executive Board has reviewed all nominees, and we have announced this year’s finalists.

Voting on this year’s finalists is now closed. Thanks to all PNRC member representatives who participated!

The winners of this year’s PNRC Annual Awards will be presented at our Annual Awards Gala, Presented by AHN Wexford & Highmark, on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the Pittsburgh Marriott North in Cranberry Township.

Register by Wednesday, May 6, 2026 to attend this year’s Gala!

PLEASE NOTE: Only PNRC members are eligible to participate. Current Chamber Executive Committee members and their businesses/organizations are not eligible for awards.

2025 Award Finalists

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by The Baker Family

Derek Allinder
Director of Development
Young Adult Survivors United

Driven by a deep commitment to helping others, Derek has volunteered as a coach for the Steel City Icebergs, a special hockey team, and is a passionate advocate for mental health—especially among young men. Derek is a native of Washington, PA, and currently resides in Mt. Lebanon with his wife and their 3-year-old daughter. He earned his master’s degree in accountancy from Miami University in 2016 and spent eight years at Ernst & Young, specializing in technology risk assurance. Outside of his current role fighting for and raising money for young adults and their families impacted by cancer, he enjoys yacht rock playlists, Dave Matthews Band and all things hockey, with a special love for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Kevin Bacon
Community Center Manager
Township of Pine

Kevin is a Slippery Rock University graduate and dedicated leader who works to strengthen communities on the local, regional, and state levels. As manager of the Pine Community Center, he ensures the facility is welcoming, provides quality programming and events, and promotes strong community engagement, and he has worked with the PNRC on the annual Health and Wellness Fair hosted by the Center. While on the boards of the Recreation Alliance of North Pittsburgh and District 1 of the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, Kevin promotes collaboration and shared resources among neighboring communities while actively supporting professional development and advocacy within the parks and recreation field. These roles have granted Kevin the opportunity to support many local businesses and to promote their services to community members in the PNRC’s footprint.

Julia Hazlet
Account Manager
Babb Inc.

Julia Hazlet thrives on connection, creativity, and community. She loves building things—whether that’s through hands-on projects, hosting meaningful gatherings, or making thoughtful introductions that spark opportunity. You’re as likely to find her in front of a blacksmithing forge with her fiancé as you are at a networking event fostering new connections. She is deeply motivated by curiosity, novelty, and creating experiences that bring others together. Julia works in Employee Benefits at Babb, Inc., helping organizations navigate healthcare decisions with clarity while keeping people at the center. She also leads Mission Madness, a community initiative that engages businesses in supporting local nonprofits through creative service and collaboration. At her core, Julia believes that when the right people connect, meaningful momentum follows.

Allie Heyward
Owner
Align + Bloom

Align and Bloom was founded after many years of Allie staying home with her three kids while working part-time in the event floral world. Her goal was to build work that felt like not only an extension of herself, but also like a creative space for play. Over the years, Allie has developed a deep love for florals and truly enjoys sharing that passion with others, whether through floral workshops, handcrafted bouquets and arrangements, or elevating gatherings through the art of flowers. Align and Bloom also offers a thoughtfully curated selection of unique home decor, lifestyle, and gifting products. She is still at the beginning of this journey, and she looks forward to continuing to grow Align and Bloom here in Pittsburgh.

Megan Paullet
Singer/Songwriter
Megan Paullet and The HR Department

Megan Paullet is an award-winning, Pittsburgh-based multi-genre artist known for her powerhouse vocals, sharp songwriting, and electrifying live performances. After overcoming years of stage fright and stepping away from a decade-long career as a competitive swimmer, Paullet launched her professional music career in 2014. Backed by her eight-piece band, The HR Department, she delivers high-energy, soul-soaked performances driven by tight musicianship and dynamic audience connection. Her collaborations include the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Wizards, and Emmy Award-winning artist FRZY, and she has shared stages with Los Lonely Boys, Petey Pablo, and John Hall (Orleans). In 2025, Paullet was named Best Singer/Songwriter at the Iron City Rocks Music Awards, and with new music releases underway in 2026, she continues to build national momentum with authenticity, resilience, and unmistakable groove.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD
Sponsored by USX Federal Credit Union

Jamie Vivo-Belaney
Senior VP/Retail Banking Officer
Brentwood Bank

With 24 years of experience in banking and the financial services industry, Jamie has built a career defined by leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to community impact. For the past 3.5 years, she has served as Senior Vice President and Retail Banking Officer at Brentwood Bank, where she leads with passion, authenticity, and a strong focus on empowering teams to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Jamie is a proud PNRC Board Member and active participant in the PNRC’s Women’s Leadership Program. She has also dedicated three years to the PA Bankers’ Women in Banking Advisory Committee, contributing to statewide initiatives that advance women in the profession.

Lisa Hunt
Business Development Officer
USX Federal Credit Union

Lisa serves as the Business Development Officer at USX Federal Credit Union, where she partners with companies and organizations to provide free financial wellness programs and frequently speaks on a variety of financial education topics. She loves the “People Helping People” philosophy of credit unions and earned her Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor designation in 2024. Lisa recently concluded twelve years of service on the PNRC Board of Directors, including leadership roles as Treasurer and Secretary, and two terms as Board Chair. She is honored to lead the PNRC Women’s Leadership Roundtable Program, where she fosters connection, confidence, and community among women leaders.

Gabby Morella
Managing Partner
Morella & Associates

As Managing Partner at Morella and Associates, Gabby is privileged to lead an incredible team working hard to provide legal assistance to the business owners and residents in our community. A North Hills native, she currently sits on the Leadership Committee for Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Visionaries of the Year Campaign and the Board for Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry. She also participates in The Brave Women’s Project, United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania – Women United, and Batch A Toys Toy Drive. From her involvement in these uplifting organizations, to the legal assistance she provides her clients, Gabby values the opportunity to serve her communities in any way.

Jewel Rozanski
Co-Founder
Cultured Travel

Jewel Rozanski, co-owner of Cultured Travel, holds a Master’s degree in educational psychology and is a certified travel advisor dedicated to designing meaningful, enriching experiences. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber, a community she values deeply for its collaboration and support. Jewel is passionate about curating culturally and academically engaging travel opportunities that inspire connection, learning, and discovery. She specializes in organizing thoughtfully planned group travel for dynamic, curious people, creating journeys that blend education, culture, and unforgettable shared experiences.

Jennifer Thayer, RN
President
Assisted Living Locators North Pittsburgh

Jennifer Thayer is a trusted authority in senior living guidance, recognized for helping families navigate complex care decisions with clinical expertise, compassion, and unwavering advocacy for the clients she serves. A Registered Nurse, Certified Senior Advisor®, and Certified Dementia Practitioner®, Jennifer has guided hundreds of families across western Pennsylvania through senior living transitions, dementia care planning, and end-of-life journeys — ensuring they feel informed, supported, and confident at every step. Her personalized placement, advisory, and advocacy services are provided at no cost to families. Jennifer’s impact extends beyond her professional work through Alzheimer’s advocacy, educational outreach, and women-centered leadership initiatives, including her involvement with the Brave Women Project.

PRESTIGIOUS BUSINESS LEADER AWARD
Sponsored by Nothing Bundt Cakes – Cranberry

Carrie Costanza
Assistant Vice President,
Financial Center Manager
Univest Bank and Trust Co.

Carrie Costanza is an Assistant Vice President and Financial Services Center Manager at Univest Bank and Trust Co., bringing more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. In her role, Carrie partners with both consumers and business clients to understand their goals and provide tailored financial solutions that support growth, stability, and long‑term success. Carrie is also an active community leader, serving on the Boards of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber, the Cranberry Noon Rotary, the New Sewickley Township Recreation Board, and Junior Achievement of Beaver County. In addition to her board involvement, she volunteers in various capacities throughout the region and is committed to initiatives that strengthen local communities, support youth development, and promote civic engagement.

Alex Giannetti
TV Host/Realtor
RE/MAX Select Realty

Alex is the host of “Selling Pittsburgh” on the two-time Emmy-nominated network The American Dream, where he connects his viewers with “the People, the Places and the Passion of Pittsburgh.” With over a decade of experience as a REALTOR® with RE/MAX, Alex has guided hundreds of families through successful real estate journeys with wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of financial stewardship. He was inducted into the RE/MAX Hall of Fame in 2023, and he is the author of “Great People Know Great People,” a practical and inspiring guide to building intentional, authentic relationships that fuel personal and professional impact. Alex serves as the President of Christian Business Partners (CBP), a national faith-based business networking organization.

Pamela Biasca Losada
Pamela Biasca Losada Coaching,
Guided Meditations & Retreats

Born and raised in Switzerland, Pamela began her coaching journey in an unexpected way, through a search for organic dark chocolate. That curiosity evolved into a lifelong mission to unlock human potential and transform the way people lead and live. As the founder of her coaching practice, Pamela helps individuals achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose-driven success. Her expertise includes emotional well-being, resilience, self-trust, and mindful decision-making, skills essential for navigating high-stakes decisions, transitions and complex life and career challenges. She is especially passionate about perfectionists and people-pleasers, and those who appear outwardly successful yet feel drained or unfulfilled beneath the surface. Clients describe her as authentic, knowledgeable, insightful, deeply motivating, and a leader committed to inspiring long-lasting change from the inside out.

Al Marschke
Owner
BluMars Media

Originally from Erie, Al Marschke earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Gannon University while working at WETG and WJET. He later relocated to Pittsburgh, where he served as Technical Director at WTAE-TV for 13 years. In 1996, Al founded BluMars Media, a marketing and communications company, and has been a full-time, self-employed independent contractor since 2001. Through BluMars Media, Al has earned more than 30 industry awards for delivering a broad range of creative and strategic services to his clients. His client roster includes the PNRC, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, national television networks, numerous advertising agencies, and a variety of industrial and manufacturing companies. Al is also an accomplished photographer, videographer, and live-event director, with decades of experience in broadcast and corporate production.

Craig Pritts
Account Executive
My Benefit Advisor/Chamber Choice

Craig started his benefits consulting career helping businesses with their employee benefits plans in 2007 with JRG Advisors and was a part of the team that merged with Emerson Reid, LLC, to become My Benefit Advisor. Today, he serves as an Account Executive and works to design the best benefit package for business owners and their employees. He is licensed in Life and Fixed Annuities, Accident and Health Insurance, and he engages with clients of all sizes, with a focus on trade associations and local start-ups. Craig currently sits on the boards of directors for several local chambers of commerce, including the PNRC, and is a past Board Chair of the Beaver County Chamber. He is also a Lieutenant Firefighter at the Broughton Volunteer Fire Department in South Park and an active member of the Allegheny County HAZMAT Green Team.

BRUCE CONLEY OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by PNC Bank

Jim Boltz
Associate Member

Jim retired from the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber as President in July 2024, a role he served for 10 years. During that time, the PNRC earned the Pittsburgh Choice Award (2018) as the best chamber in western Pennsylvania. It was also recognized as one of the nation’s Top 3 chambers by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (2021). Prior to that, Jim owned and operated Minuteman Press in Cranberry Township, and during that time, he actively participated in multiple Chamber Committees including Executive, Merger, Finance, Personnel, Membership, and Marketing. He also held key leadership roles, including Board Chair and Treasurer. Since retiring, Jim spends his time enjoying the company of family and friends in a variety of activities. Volunteering for the Chamber gives him the opportunity to repay the organization that has been so good to him.

Patti Ferraro
Associate Director of External Relations & Special Events
Variety, the Children’s Charity of Pittsburgh

For nearly a decade, Patti has been a central pillar of Variety – the Children’s Charity. As the Associate Director of External Relations & Special Events, she orchestrates Variety’s signature fundraisers, including, but not limited to, the Annual Gala and Golf/Clay Shoot outings. Perhaps most significantly, she leads the Peak Moments Program, creating life-changing experiences that allow children with disabilities and their families to live life to the fullest. Her commitment to the PNRC is extensive; she is a consistent presence at the Women’s Leadership events, After Hours and the Awards Gala. Currently, she serves on the Events and Community Outreach committees. Patti’s ability to inspire goodwill was most recently recognized with the Circle of Courage Award and her being named as a PNRC Member of the Month.

Scott Hacker
Registered Agent
New York Life Insurance

Scott is a Penn State graduate holding a BS in Finance. He also holds associate degrees in accounting and banking. He has worked with business owners and professionals as a commercial lender for over 18 years. In 2010, he joined New York Life to assist business owners, professionals, and individuals in planning for and protecting their financial futures. Scott’s passion is to help people understand and develop their financial plans, and to show them balanced strategies to reach their goals. He appreciates all the Chamber does for local businesses and strives to follow the path laid out by Bruce Connelly and John McCool in leading the Tuesday Chamber Connections meetings weekly.

Amy Smith
Executive Director
The Cranberry Foundation

Amy began her career with Cranberry Township in 2024, bringing more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience focused on community engagement and philanthropic partnerships. In 2026, she was named Executive Director of the Cranberry Foundation, formerly the Cranberry Township Community Chest, where she provides strategic leadership and oversees the Foundation’s operations. In addition to her professional role, she serves on the Board of Directors of the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber and chairs the Events Committee, helping to plan programs that connect businesses, support economic vitality, and strengthen community relationships throughout the region. Through her volunteer efforts, Amy consistently gives her time and leadership to strengthen organizations and create meaningful community impact.

Julie Snider
Business Development Director
The Junkluggers of Pittsburgh

As Director of Business Development and Community Partnerships for The Junkluggers of Pittsburgh, Julie goes beyond traditional sales and marketing. She proudly aligns her work with The Junkluggers’ mission to enhance lives, strengthen the community, and protect the environment through responsible rehoming, recycling, and support of local charities. One of the most rewarding aspects of her role is being in a position to meaningfully give back, using her platform to support local nonprofits through donations, cleanouts, collection drives, and collaborative community initiatives. Her work consistently bridges the gap between business growth and community responsibility, proving that the two can—and should—go hand in hand. For Julie, community impact isn’t a side project—it’s a core part of how she approaches her career and life.

NONPROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD
Sponsored by Glade Run Lutheran Services

Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry

Formerly known as North Hills Youth Ministry, Anchorpoint began in 1966 as an outreach ministry to teens. Today, Anchorpoint compassionately serves clients ages 5 to 95 who are battling anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, loneliness, family challenges, and other needs. Caring clinicians oversee monthly support groups that are provided at no cost to single moms, seniors, and grieving spouses. Anchorpoint is a local leader in mental health clinical training, offering internship and residency programs to develop future professionals. Its counselors use evidence-based treatment methods to address emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs. Anchorpoint is proud to be a co-founder of the PNRC Nonprofits North coalition, and also part of the North Hills Mental Health & Substance Use Task Force, Northern Region Student Assistance Providers Team, and School Counselors Advisory Councils for North Hills and Shaler Area school districts.

Concordia Lutheran Ministries

Founded in 1881, Concordia Lutheran Ministries is a faith-based, CARF-accredited Aging Services Network and recipient of the inaugural Pennsylvania Department of Aging Excellence in Quality Care Award. As one of the largest nonprofit senior care providers in the country, the organization serves 50,000 people annually through in-home care and inpatient locations. Concordia offers a lifetime continuum of care that includes adult day services, home health care, hospice, physician and rehabilitation services, memory care, personal care, assisted living, respite care, retirement living, skilled nursing/short-term rehab, spiritual care and medical equipment. The organization provides more than $214,000 in individual sponsorships to 208 local charitable organizations and schools yearly, as well as co-hosted a free Medical/Dental/Vision Clinic with Remote Area Medical (RAM).

Crisis Center North

Crisis Center North provides life-saving services to survivors of domestic violence and their loved ones in northern and western Allegheny County via counseling, therapy, case management, legal and medical advocacy, and economic empowerment services. Crisis Center North offers community training on topics related to intimate partner violence and teen dating violence, as well as prevention education programming to local schools. Over 38,000 life-saving, trauma-informed direct services have been provided to over 2,700 survivors of domestic violence and their children by the organization in a single year. The specialized program of intervention, support, and educational services for survivors of domestic violence includes a 24/7 hotline that is free and confidential for anyone affected by domestic violence to call, even just for emotional support. Crisis Center North seeks to empower survivors of domestic violence and cultivate attitudes and community behaviors that break the cycle of violence within our community.

Lifesteps

Every day across western Pennsylvania, Lifesteps transforms uncertainty into opportunity. A young family facing homelessness found more than food at a local pantry, they found a Lifesteps Family Services Specialist who connected them to housing support and a path toward stability. Today, they are working toward homeownership. Amber, a determined young woman with disabilities, found her independence through Lifesteps Transition and Employment Services and now thrives in a job she loves. From ages 6 weeks to 96 plus, Lifesteps helps individuals, like Amber, and families with life’s changing needs by developing programs and services which will improve their quality of life. Their organization believes that lasting change begins with one caring connection.

Light of Life Rescue Mission

Light of Life Rescue Mission is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the love of Christ by providing food, shelter, and hope to men, women, and children in need. Founded in 1952, Light of Life serves individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and poverty through a comprehensive continuum of care—from emergency shelter and meals to long-term recovery programs. These services address not only immediate needs, but also emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. With the support of dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners, Light of Life works to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty, empowering individuals to rebuild stability and thrive—one life at a time.

DISTINGUISHED BUSINESS AWARD
Sponsored by NexTier Bank

Bonus Accounting

Founded in 2016 by Kenny Bonus, CPA, Bonus Accounting was established from a vision to provide high-quality, accessible accounting and tax services to a region facing a shortage of trusted advisors. Since its inception, the firm has evolved into a robust team of 30 professionals operating across multiple locations, including Butler and Erie. Bonus Accounting distinguishes itself through a “firm of the future” philosophy, seamlessly blending traditional values like hard work and integrity with cutting-edge cloud technology. This approach allows the firm to provide a full suite of services while maintaining a personalized touch from trusted individuals. The firm’s commitment to ethical excellence and local growth are well-documented, evidenced by their Western PA Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics, and their establishment of a $25,000 scholarship endowment at Slippery Rock University to support the next generation of accountants.

Complete Chiropractic Health

Complete Chiropractic Health is a full-service chiropractic clinic dedicated to helping our community move, feel, and live better. We provide specific chiropractic adjustments along with advanced modalities including spinal decompression, stim therapy, shockwave therapy, and digital on-site X-ray. Proudly serving our local community for over 20 years, we’re deeply committed to giving back—having contributed more than $400,000 to community causes during our time in business.

Minuteman Press – Cranberry

Minuteman Press Cranberry Township is a full-service design, print and marketing center serving the entire business community from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Their mission is to be your partner in business and help you market, advertise and promote your products and services to your target audiences to increase your sales. For many years, Minuteman Press has provided office essentials and marketing materials for the PNRC and its signature events, including the Annual Awards Gala, and they have helped PNRC member businesses and organizations harness the power of both print and promotional products and bring their own marketing strategies to whole new levels of success.

Nothing Bundt Cakes – Cranberry

Felipe and Jessica Valdez launched their Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise location in Cranberry Township in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before opening their doors, they began forging key relationships within the community, notably forming an enduring partnership with the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber. The Chamber played a pivotal role in facilitating authentic connections between Nothing Bundt Cakes and various local businesses and organizations. Felipe and Jessica manage the business with an emphasis on meaningful integration within the community. Their team actively pursues opportunities through fundraisers, donations, partnerships, participation in special events and festivals, among other initiatives. Daily operations at Nothing Bundt Cakes in Cranberry rely on high-performing, customer-focused teams across departments.

Walnut Grill Wexford

Walnut Grill offers contemporary American cuisine in a modern atmosphere. They specialize in fresh cut steaks and seafood and bring a diverse casual menu offering everything from grilled flatbreads to prime rib French dip and smash burgers to their locally famous roasted beet salad. Their atmosphere lends to hanging out in the bar with friends to a formal dinner date and anything in between. Walnut Grill offers private dining options for your rehearsal dinner or baby shower and a large patio for outdoor fun during our pleasant season. In addition, they can cater for events on-site or off-site with the capability of 25-2,000 people. Walnut Grill looks forward to welcoming you with a warm smile and provides the confidence to their guests for a great experience, as they have serviced their community for almost 20 years.

Thank you to our 2026 Gala sponsors!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

CHAMBER PARTNER

GOLD SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSORS