2025 Indiana County Athena Awards
Renda Media has been a proud partner with the Colonial Motor Mart as the Co-Sponsors of the annual Indiana County Athena Award. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in their professional field, provide valuable service to the greater Indiana County Community, and actively mentor and support women in leadership development.
JESSICA CUNNINGHAM
Jessica Cunningham, marketing vice president for InFirst Bank, has built her life and career around compassion, perseverance, and community involvement.
A lifelong resident of New Florence, she grew up influenced by missionary grandparents who dedicated their lives to service through organizations like The Salvation Army and the CROP Walk. Their example shaped Cunningham’s belief in faith-driven outreach and her desire to give back in meaningful ways.
After attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania, she remained in the area to raise her family and invest her talents locally. Before joining InFirst Bank, she revitalized Downtown Indiana as business improvement director, helping relaunch the Oktoberfest celebration and developing events that brought renewed energy to local businesses and residents.
Since becoming marketing vice president in 2017, Cunningham has guided strategic initiatives that strengthen InFirst Bank’s community partnerships and long-term growth. Her leadership extends far beyond her professional role. She serves on the boards of the Indiana County Community Action Program and the United Way of Indiana County, helping direct fundraising campaigns and programs that assist families in need. As a leader in Quota of Indiana, PA, she has played a major role in raising funds for local organizations supporting children, veterans, and families.
A breast cancer survivor and foster mom, Cunningham also leads the Foster Mom Support Group, providing encouragement and childcare for women navigating life’s challenges. Her resilience and compassion inspire those around her, and she remains dedicated to mentoring women in leadership and service.
Cunningham continues to focus on personal growth and community improvement. Her goal is to foster kindness, empower others, and create lasting positive change. Through every role she holds—professional, volunteer, and personal—she exemplifies the spirit of service that defines true leadership.
Thank you to our 2025 Indiana County Athena Award sponsors
We salute our 2025 Athena Finalists, including Jessica Cunningham (InFirst Bank), Felicia Daniel (S&T Bank), Barbara Hauge (UpStreet Architects), Laurie Kuzneski (Kuzneski Insurance Group), Meriann Lee (Purchase Line School District), Kathy Mihoerck (Grace Church), Amy Rebyanski (Indiana Area School District), Joyce Sharman (Fundraiser for multiple non-profits), and Nicole Wannett (Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion Drug & Alcohol Prevention Center).
Community celebration of leadership and service – the Emerging Women Leaders Luncheon will be October 15th, from 11 to 1 at the Indiana Country Club. The luncheon will include the presentation of the 2025 ATHENA Awards and the 3rd annual Spadafora Family $5,000 scholarship for a high school senior who is a member of ATHENA Club. Tickets are $50 per person with proceeds supporting the ATHENA program. Register at www.indianacountychamber.us by October 10th.
