Testimonials
“The Carnegie Carnegie has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last 15 years. We could not have restored our beautiful historic landmark facility without generous support from the many generous donors, including the State. From the get go, Senator Fontana lent his support. He helped us navigate challenging State requirements. He and his staff have been available for advice, brainstorming, suggesting partners or different avenues to pursue. His commitment to his constituents and communities is real. He cares. We are grateful. We are fortunate.”
Maggie Forbes, Executive Director, Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall
“From the time Blind & Vision Rehabilitation Services decided to move to Senator Fontana’s district he has continually helped us to grow and improve our organization for the local community. He is always available to meet with me and discuss issues facing us as a nonprofit and he has helped us find finding for projects that will create jobs and benefit the overall community. He truly cares about the people in his district!”
Erika Petach, President, Blind & Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh
“Senator Fontana’s support to Pittsburgh Musical Theater is unending. He understands our mission and always responds to our needs. He cares for our students like they are his own. He has a deep understanding and passion for community and is always there to help with its growth and education.
Pittsburgh Musical Theater loves and thanks Senator Wayne Fontana.”
Colleen Doyno, Executive Artistic Director, Pittsburgh Musical Theater
“Since we founded the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in 2004, Senator Fontana has attended our events and has given our leadership advice and counsel that has helped us to grow and positively impact many of our communities. Wayne’s accessibility and sincerity in wanting to help all citizen groups, regardless of ethnic or political persuasions, is the thing that makes me proud to consider him a mentor and a friend.”
Victor Diaz, Board of Directors, Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
“Senator Fontana has a unique ability to relate to his constituency personably and responsibly with a can-do attitude, which exemplifies his high level of concern for those he represents. He is a transformational leader and models excellence, self-direction and reflection in his work as a State Senator. Senator Fontana promotes diversity, is very responsive and highly regarded for his commitment to the communities he serves in Western Pennsylvania.”
Dr. Howard B. Slaughter, Jr., President & CEO, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh
“Senator Fontana has worked tirelessly and consistently to improve the education for ALL children, particularly at risk and homeless youth. Senator Fontana is a statesman who fulfills his responsibilities with diligence, respect, dignity and integrity. He is an active and engaged legislator, a concerned problem solver with the courage to tackle difficult and unpopular challenges. Senator Fontana and his staff are fully approachable, available and responsive to citizens’ needs and suggestions.”
Joseph F. Lagana, Ed.D., Founder & CEO, Homeless Children’s Education Fund
“Over many years, Senator Fontana has been a champion for his district by demonstrating support for a number of projects beneficial to our communities. He has supported activities across the area in which I have been engaged. Our Penn State Landscape Architecture Studio work in Beltzhoover and the West Pittsburgh communities provided conceptual designs for land use. He supports significant efforts in the rebuilding of the Connelley Trade School into a LEED Platinum, state of the art sustainability focus – Energy Innovation Center. His support of the BREW on Broadway coffeehouse has been tremendous as this group continues to work towards enlivening the Beechview business corridor with interesting services and activities. He has always been a down to earth, community member who listens to the needs of our neighborhoods and represents those views in Harrisburg.”
Deno De Ciantis, Ed.D., Beechview Resident and former Director of the Penn State Center – Engaging Pittsburgh
“The mark of a leader is one who can make everyone feel comfortable, one who takes the time to really understand the issues, cares about how you feel and seeks out the facts. That leader carefully studies the situation, making sure a fair and just process is in place while working to create a collaborative atmosphere for change. Those are the qualities I have found in Senator Wayne Fontana. He is a leader committed to working for the community. As a member of the Downtown community for many years I have seen Wayne time and time again provide his leadership on the important matters facing the region.”
Mariann Geyer, Vice President External Affairs – Point Park University