Nominated by Danielle Randall, Executive Director of Future Focused Academy.
Marie Kuhn is the kind of HR professional who doesn’t just show up — she steps in, lifts up and transforms the lives of young adults preparing to enter the workforce. Although she is a recent addition to our Board of Directors at Future Focused Academy, Marie has been a steadfast supporter of our mission for years. Her commitment to Erie’s young people is unwavering, and her impact is felt every single time she walks into a room of students ready to learn, grow and be seen.
Marie brings her HR expertise to our organization with generosity and heart. She has participated in numerous mock interview sessions across both our high school program and our Community Cohorts serving 18–23-year-olds. More than that, she has taken it upon herself to coordinate additional HR professionals to ensure every student receives meaningful, individualized support. Her leadership has strengthened our programming, expanded our network and ensured that no young adult is left without the guidance they need.
Students consistently share glowing feedback after interviewing with Marie — praising her kindness, sincerity and her rare ability to offer constructive feedback that feels empowering rather than intimidating. She helps young adults see their strengths, understand their opportunities for growth, and walk away feeling more confident and prepared for real-world interviews. Her presence changes the energy of the room; students feel safe, supported and capable.
As a board member and active contributor to our Fundraising and Marketing Committee, Marie has become an invaluable part of our organization’s leadership. She is always willing to help wherever she can, often anticipating needs before they arise. Her dedication to making Erie a stronger, more supportive community is evident in everything she does — from mentoring young adults to championing our mission behind the scenes.
Marie embodies what it means to be an HR leader: compassionate, community-minded, collaborative and deeply invested in helping people thrive. For these reasons and so many more, I am honored to nominate Marie Kuhn for the Manufacturers and Business Association’s HR Person of the Year Award. Her service has made a lasting impact on Future Focused Academy and the young adults of Erie, and she is profoundly deserving of this recognition.