Alvernia University's Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes people who demonstrate the valuable contributions to their professions, community and their nation. All biographical information current at the time of the award.
With more than two decades of experience at Mrs. T’s Pierogies, LeeAnn Smulligan has built an impressive career defined by leadership, innovation, and a commitment to people. In 2024, she was named Chief Operating Officer, a role that recognizes her long record of success in driving operational excellence, category development, marketing initiatives, and brand innovation for the family-owned company.
LeeAnn began her career at Mrs. T’s in 2002 as a marketing assistant. Her drive and vision propelled her through a series of leadership positions, including Director of Marketing, Vice President of Operations, and ultimately COO. In each role, she has helped shape the strategic direction of the company, keeping the Mrs. T’s brand both beloved by longtime customers and relevant to new generations. Her colleagues and industry partners alike admire her for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to align organizational values with community impact.
A graduate of Saint Joseph’s University with a bachelor’s degree in food marketing, LeeAnn earned her MBA from Alvernia University, where she deepened her expertise in business leadership. Committed to continuous learning, she further enhanced her executive skills by completing the Wharton Executive Education Leadership Program in 2024.
LeeAnn’s professional achievements have earned national recognition. In 2024, she received the prestigious Frozen and Refrigerated Buyer FoRWARD Award (Frozen & Refrigerated Women Achieving Remarkable Distinction), honoring her contributions to the frozen food industry and her mentorship of emerging female executives. Beyond her corporate role, she is active in industry and community leadership, serving as chair of the National Frozen & Refrigerated Association’s Promotions Committee, as a member of VISTAGE—the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization—and as Secretary of the Board for Helping Harvest, the regional food bank serving Berks and Schuylkill Counties.
LeeAnn’s dedication extends well beyond her professional responsibilities. She is passionate about using her knowledge and leadership to mentor others, to strengthen community organizations, and to ensure that business success also drives community well-being.
She and her husband, Charles, reside in St. Clair, Pennsylvania, with their daughters, Carlee and Ellee. LeeAnn values time with her family, enjoys traveling, reading, and fitness, and remains active in service to her community.
Through her professional achievements, community engagement, and leadership rooted in values, LeeAnn Smulligan exemplifies the spirit of the Distinguished Alumni Award and the mission of Alvernia University.
