Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association Announces 
First Recipient of The Authorities Future Leaders Scholarship

The Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association (PMAA) recently awarded Melissa Shunk of Easton, Pennsylvania, The Authorities 2023 Future Leadership Scholarship during the Awards Banquet at PMAA’s Annual Conference in Pocono Manor.

Melissa is the first recipient of this scholarship. The Authorities Future Leaders Scholarship was established in 2023 under the guidance of PMAA President, Melissa Komar, Executive Director, Johnstown Redevelopment and Regional Sewage Authorities, the PMAA Board of Directors and the PMAA Future Leaders Committee.

Recognizing the need in the industry to find leaders and cultivate for the future, the scholarship program was created with the goal of increasing knowledge and awareness of Authority business, the vital services Authorities provide to their communities, and the need for qualified employees in the industry. The scholarship is available to an individual pursuing a career in the industry, or a current authority employee pursuing continuing education or certification.

This year’s recipient, Melissa Shunk, is a graduate of Wilson Area High School and is currently a freshman at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, pursuing a degree in environmental studies.

In her scholarship application essay, Melissa notes she has always enjoyed science. “I love the Earth and everything it has to offer,” she says.

Melissa will receive a $1,000 check to put towards her educational expenses this year.

PMAA looks forward to continuing to develop and grow the scholarship program, and to roll out even more opportunities for future leaders in the next year.