Newsmaker: Stephanie Sikora

Tribune-Review
Monday, Sept. 24, 2012 12:00 a.m. | Monday, Sept. 24, 2012 12:00 a.m.

Stephanie “Stef” Sikora, 27, of Brookline has received the Citizen Service Award from Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who also declared Sept. 14 was “Stef Sikora Day” in the city. The recognition spotlights her volunteer work, including for the American Heart Association, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and a dodgeball fundraiser.

Stephanie “Stef” Sikora

Newsworthy: Sikora received the city's Citizen Service Award in recognition of her volunteer work, including for the American Heart Association, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and a dodgeball fundraiser. Mayor Luke Ravenstahl declared Sept. 14 as “Stef Sikora Day” in Pittsburgh.

Age: 27

Residence: Brookline

Occupation: Communications assistant, mayor's office

Background: Grew up in Larksville, Luzerne County. Started an annual dodgeball fundraiser in the Wilkes-Barre area for her godson, Zachary Shoemaker, 8, after he survived a car accident in 2008. Performed charitable work on behalf of her late boyfriend, Steve Semanek of Swoyersville, who died after a motorcycle accident, and for service organizations.

Education: Bachelor's degree in communications from Shippensburg University, 2007; master's degree in communications from Point Park University, 2011

Quote: “This is just what I do. I don't do it for recognition. I do it because people need help, and people need to help them. ... I think it's important to remember that every little bit helps.”

— Adam Smeltz

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