Rebecca received her Master of Public Administration degree from Gannon in 2002 and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership. Her advanced degree from Gannon helped pave the way to broader opportunities throughout Rebecca’s career so far. She truly believes that continuing education in any capacity is essential to success. Her current professor, Dr. Tania Reis, has been a huge influence during her short tenure in the Ph.D. program. “She has such wonderful energy and believes that the only limitations in life are the ones we set upon ourselves.” Dr. Reis has been a great champion for Rebecca’s cohort and is one of her favorite professors.
Rebecca previously served as Foundation Director of the Regional Cancer Center in Erie. She has recently accepted a new position at the Erie Management Group as Director of Community Investment, overseeing all requests for funding and donations while working with other non-profits throughout the community. In addition, she is helping create the organization’s long-term vision and strategy.
For her outstanding work within the Erie community, Rebecca has been recognized and the recipient of key awards such as the Erie Reader’s 40 under 40, Mercy Center for Women’s Women Making History, and yep!’s Generation-E awardee. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of NWPA, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and the Erie Club.
Rebecca earned a bachelor’s degree in piano performance and she enjoys playing the piano as much as she can. She loves spending time with her husband, Rob Mahrt, her two cats and many friends. She appreciates being able to get out into the community and her long-term goals includes helping the Erie community progress.
“Theodore Roosevelt stated “Comparison is the thief of joy.” As you continue to progress personally and professionally, especially with the instantaneous gratification of the social media world, remember these words. Your life will have its purpose and a great one at that. Don’t compare yourself against others and don’t belittle yourself in the process. Everything isn’t always as it seems. Take care of yourself first – and by doing that, you’ll best be able to take care of others.” – Rebecca Styn
(published March 2017)