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.
LAURIE KUZNESKI
Laurie Kuzneski, president of Kuzneski Insurance Group, is widely recognized for pairing her leadership with action. Originally from Waterford, she moved to Indiana in 1989 to study fashion design and merchandising before shifting to journalism and public relations. She launched her career in marketing, advancing quickly through roles at First Commonwealth Financial Corporation, where she focused on shareholder relations and marketing initiatives. She later led marketing efforts for First Commonwealth Insurance Agency before taking on leadership responsibilities at her family’s insurance business.
Her career path was shaped by both professional growth and personal experience. While raising her daughter, she balanced family life and career aspirations, which inspired her to help others navigate similar challenges. In 2024, she became president of Kuzneski Insurance Group, continuing her family’s legacy while driving innovation and supporting employees.
Kuzneski has also made a significant impact through community involvement. She has held leadership positions on multiple boards, including the IUP Council of Trustees, Indiana Regional Medical Center Board, Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, and United Way of Indiana County. Her leadership has helped raise millions for local and national causes, including cancer research and community development.
Her achievements earned her recognition as an ATHENA Award finalist, honoring women who inspire and uplift others through leadership and service. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition, mentoring women in business, and strengthening community ties.
Looking ahead, Kuzneski plans to expand her work with the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, support future generations of women leaders, and continue fostering business growth in her community. Her story reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, philanthropy, and empowering others to achieve their goals.
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.
