Mar 24, 2014 2 min read

Hannah Kirby, a Waynesburg native living in Erie, was one of the recipients of the 2014 Hannah Penn Leadership Awards presented at a ceremony Wednesday at the governor’s residence in Harrisburg.

Kirby, daughter of Barbara Kirby of Waynesburg and the late James Kirby, is a 2006 graduate of Waynesburg Central High School and a 2010 graduate of Gannon University.

She was awarded the Rising Star Award for young women between 16 and 29.

The awards, named in honor of Hannah Callowhill Penn, recognize Pennsylvania women who are outstanding mentors and role models through their leadership, service and commitment to empowering women and girls. They are administered by the Pennsylvania Commission for Women, which works to identify and advance the diverse needs and interests of Pennsylvania women and girls.

Kirby’s award recognizes a female role model whose leadership and service improves the lives of women and girls in Pennsylvania and inspires them to achieve their dreams. She earned a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering and a year later was awarded a MBA degree, both from Gannon.

She is currently employed by LORD Corp. as a senior quality engineer. As a Gannon University National Alumni Board director, she participates in the board’s mentoring achievement program and numerous other outreach programs that help young girls explore careers in science, technology and math.

She is active in her community with Tesla, her therapy dog, and visits at-risk girls and young women who are victims of domestic violence through Therapy Dogs United. She also spends time with grieving children as a volunteer at Highmark’s Caring Place.

“We applaud today’s award recipients for their unwavering devotion to improving the lives of women and girls in Pennsylvania,” said Sue Schick, Chair of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women. “Through their dynamic leadership and tireless efforts, they provide others with the resources and support needed to succeed personally and professionally.”