Centre Foundation Announces Major Community Honors and Legacy Recognition at Annual Holiday Soirée

STATE COLLEGE, PA, December 10, 2025 – More than 100 supporters, donors, and nonprofit leaders gathered at Centre Hills Country Club on Tuesday, December 9, for Centre Foundation’s annual Holiday Soirée, an event celebrating philanthropy and recognizing distinguished community leadership.

Tribute to Retiring President & CEO Molly Kunkel

The event featured a special tribute to Molly Kunkel, who recently retired after 17 years of visionary leadership and service to the Centre County community. During her tenure as Centre Foundation President and CEO, Kunkel oversaw the expansion of several key initiatives, including Centre Gives, Centre Inspires, Visionary Funds, youth philanthropy programs, emergency response funds, and scholarship opportunities.

In recognition of her impact, the Foundation announced the creation of the Molly Kunkel Visionary Legacy Fund, established through contributions from past and current board members who are continuing to make gifts in her honor.

“Molly built an infrastructure that will serve Centre County for generations,” said David Lieb, Centre Foundation’s new President & CEO. “Her leadership has strengthened our community and shaped the future of philanthropy in meaningful and lasting ways.”

Lieb also delivered his first President’s Message, outlining his vision for the Foundation’s continued work across Centre County.

Mary Lou Bennett Presented with 2025 Oak Tree Award

Centre Foundation proudly recognizes Mary Lou Bennett as the 2025 Oak Tree Award recipient, honoring her extraordinary service and lasting impact on Centre County.

The Oak Tree Award is presented to a community member whose dedication, partnership, and philanthropy have strengthened Centre Foundation and the nonprofits we serve. Each year, the award includes a grant from the Oak Tree Fund—an endowed fund created to extend the recipient’s legacy of giving through support for a local nonprofit of their choice.

For over a decade, Mary Lou has strengthened local nonprofits with her generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community. As a Giving Circle Ambassador member, PA Giving Pledge participant, Legacy Campbell Society member, and devoted Centre Gives donor, she uplifts initiatives across every field of interest.

She has also been a steadfast supporter of the American Dream Housing Fund, established by the Centre County Association of REALTORS® (CCAR) at the Foundation, which helps reduce barriers to homeownership for community members. Her advocacy and giving help ensure that more residents, including public servants and service personnel, have access to safe and affordable housing.

In keeping with her passion for strengthening community connections, Mary Lou chose to direct her Oak Tree Award grant to the Public Media for Northern and Central Pennsylvania Fund at Centre Foundation. Through this fund, she continues her legacy of supporting trusted, community-centered storytelling and expanding access to reliable local news across our region.

“Mary Lou leads by example,” Kerry Tolton, Development and Stewardship Director noted, “Her generosity and commitment have made a lasting difference for organizations that matter deeply to her and to our community.”

Cindy Pasquinelli Receives Mimi Barash Coppersmith Women in Leadership Award

The Foundation also recognized Cindy Pasquinelli, Chief Executive Officer of Strawberry Fields, Inc., as the 2025 Mimi Barash Coppersmith Women in Leadership Award recipient.

Pasquinelli has served Strawberry Fields for nearly four decades, helping expand housing, employment, early intervention services, and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Cindy embodies the very essence of this award,” said Ann Ard, selection committee member. “Her leadership is rooted in empathy and inclusion, and she has dedicated her career to helping individuals live with dignity, independence, and belonging.”

Pasquinelli selected the David Pasquinelli Memorial Fund at Strawberry Fields, Inc. to receive the award’s $2,500 grant.

A Celebration of Community Impact

The Holiday Soirée closed a year of growth and transition for Centre Foundation, honoring the individuals whose leadership continues to strengthen Centre County’s nonprofit sector and philanthropic spirit.

For more information about donating to the Molly Kunkel Visionary Legacy Fund, visit centrefoundation.org or contact info@centrefoundation.org | 814.237.6229.

Centre Foundation fosters a culture of giving, supports and empowers nonprofits, and sparks positive community change.