Learn About Our 2024 Shining Star Nominees
Amanda Dunn, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region
Amanda serves as the Vice President of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region, where she spearheads initiatives aimed at empowering young people through mentorship. Recognized as one of the Top 40 Under 40 by the Central Penn Business Journal, Amanda’s passion for education and mentorship is evident throughout her career trajectory. Equipped with a Master’s degree in Education, specializing in Differentiated Instruction, Amanda brings over fifteen years of experience in the education sector, both domestically and internationally. Throughout her career, Amanda has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic journeys of countless students, emphasizing inclusivity and tailored learning environments to meet individual needs. As the Vice President of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters, Amanda’s leadership is marked by her strategic vision and commitment to fostering positive change within the community. Her innovative approach to program development not only enhances the organization’s impact but also enhances the agency’s reach and relevance. Amanda is lifelong learner and believes the best way we can learn is from each other. Amanda strives to make a difference in the lives of others through education and mentorship.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
The advice I would give my younger self is that as incredible as the world is, and it truly has been rewarding to be able to explore and travel to different places throughout my adult life, living in Central PA is actually a lot better than I thought it was at age 17.
Do you have a favorite vacation spot? If so, where?
My favorite vacation spot is Zanzibar, which is an island off the coast of Tanzania. It’s an incredible island with a rich history!
Jacquie Hower, Zimmerman’s Automotive Tire Pros
Jacquie is the Director of Operations and 3rd generation Zimmerman at Zimmerman’s Automotive Tire Pros. As Director of Operations, she oversees office staff and daily operations, plans events, marketing/social media, etc. Recently, Jacquie obtained her instructorship to train new car seat technicians, through Safe Kids Worldwide. Outside of Zimmerman’s, Jacquie works as an EMT and Training Officer at Yellow Breeches Emergency Medical Services. In her role at YBEMS, Jacquie performs patient care, coordinates training for the company, is a CPR instructor, and helps with public relations. In her personal life, Jacquie is involved with many different organizations. She is an interior firefighter at Upper Allen Fire Department and is the incoming president for the Upper Allen Women’s Club GFWC. Jacquie’s favorite quote is “The meaning of life is to find your gift; The purpose of life is to give it away”. This quote has guided Jacquie in everything she does. Jacquie enjoys spending time with her husband, Dan, and their two boys, Brantley and Mason. In her free time, you might either find Jacquie and her family at the baseball field or out enjoying a fun family outing.
If you could choose any song to be your life anthem what would it be?
I love music. Music tends to be my escape. If I had to pick one song as my life anthem, I would choose “Say I Won’t” by MercyMe.
What is your favorite dessert?
My grandmother’s chocolate éclair dessert.
Michelle Loomis, UPMC Pinnacle Foundation
Michelle has been a Major Gifts Officer with UPMC Pinnacle Foundation since 2019. The UPMC Pinnacle Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that coordinates charitable giving to support community benefit and education programs, the needs of seven hospitals, and resources that improve access to and quality of care throughout UPMC in Central Pa. In her role Michelle works to support the oncology and women’s service lines as well as UPMC Carlisle. Michelle thoroughly enjoys raising funds to support the amazing work of UPMC and the community. Michelle’s favorite part of her job is showing a donor how their gift can truly impact someone’s life, turning it into Life Changing Generosity. Michelle also serves as co-chair for the Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce EPIC Committee and the Vice-Chair for Leadership Cumberland’s Development Committee. In addition to her committee work, Michelle also serves as a vocalist for her church worship team and on the planning team for the Great Commission 5k. When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll find Michelle spending time with her husband Scott and two daughters, Presley and Sydney.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stop caring so much about what others think! As much of a “ham” as I was, on stage, I was still very self-conscious. There are so many auditions that I never did or adventures that I never took, because I was afraid of what others would think. I wish I could tell myself to be comfortable in my own skin and encourage others to be comfortable in theirs.
Do you have a favorite vacation spot? If so, where?
Anywhere that I can make memories with my family. Preferably somewhere with a beach.
Jennifer Magaro, Highmark Health – enGen
Jennifer, Senior Vice President of Product and Technology, steers the helm of enGen’s customer experience and engagement teams. A wholly owned healthtech subsidiary of Highmark Health, enGen’s dynamic ecosystem of smart automation and technology supports and streamlines complex operations for health plans and their provider partners, with more than 12,000 employees and working with health care plans serving more than 11 million members nationwide. In her role within the healthtech organization, Jennifer leads a team of over 400 team members with responsibility of an annual budget of $90 million. Utilizing both digital and print technologies to simplify and streamline the health care journey for members and providers alike, in her current role Jennifer has embodied a commitment to both her clients and her team members, aligning directly with enGen’s vision to drive a remarkable health experience through innovative healthtech. With more than 25 years’ business and technology leadership experience, Jennifer demonstrates a thorough understanding in her field, showcasing a skillset that includes platform ownership, portfolio management, process improvement, and delivery methodologies. An active supporter of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs throughout her local community, Jennifer volunteers with the Junior Achievement of South Central Pennsylvania. Additionally, Jennifer is a board member of the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania (TCCP) and serves as an advisor for the Stem-Up Network, and Harrisburg University, Information Systems Engineering and Management. Jennifer has also spoken at a Girls in STEM Camp event, and Harrisburg University Executive Leadership Programs, and has served as a college student mentor through the TCCP Women in Tech Mentoring Program. Jennifer holds a master’s degree in management information systems from Shippensburg University and a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Pittsburgh. Jennifer resides in Mechanicsburg and is married to her husband, Shawn, and has two children, Nick and Gabe.
If you could choose any song to be your ‘life anthem’ what would it be?
It’s My Life – Bon Jovi
What is your favorite dessert?
Anything lemon, lemon bars, lemon cake, lemon cheesecake, etc…
Carleigh Williams, A.P. Williams – Mainline Excavating
Carleigh grew up in the Harrisburg area and graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor’s degree in Adult & Organizational Development. Upon graduation she worked in hospitality management for several years until joining her family’s construction businesses, A. P. Williams & Mainline Excavating, in 2018. Since then, Carleigh has worked across both companies in many facets, including project coordinator, safety committee director, design, and marketing. In 2023, Carleigh was promoted to Director of Operations for Mainline Excavating. In addition to the day-to-day operations, she has led the simultaneous rebranding of all four family companies, developed a new safety program for Mainline Excavating, and helped redefine and implement new company policies (yay for maternity leave and improved workplace culture!). Carleigh is also an active member of the South-Central PA Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and serves as the chapter secretary and community outreach committee chair. The committee has led multiple donation drives to support organizations such as Girls on the Run, Midwest Food Bank, Harvest of Blessing, and Olivia’s House to name a few. In 2023, they created two new programs, the Girl Scout Woodworker Patch Workshop and the High School Mentorship Program, both of which help introduce young girls to AEC careers and topics.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Get out of your comfort zone more often! I attribute the fact that I started my ‘professional’ career so late due to the fact that I was in my comfort zone. Now, I try to say yes to opportunities that will put me outside of my comfort zone because that is where I find the most learning opportunities.
Do you have a favorite vacation spot? If so, where?
While I like visiting new places, my favorite vacation spot has to be the Delaware Beaches. My family has been going there since I was a little girl and holds a nostalgic place in my heart. I now have a family of my own and it is so much fun experiencing the things that I did as a kid with them. I will say I have a new appreciation for my parents because packing for a family for a day at the beach or on the boat is no joke!
The award recipients will be announced during the Luminary Awards Luncheon taking place on September 5th from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Penn Harris Hotel. Interested in attending? Purchase your tickets here and details on the event can be found here.
Thank you to our generous event sponsors:
