October 1, 2019

​Akron certainly has a bright future with young professionals like Samantha “Sam” Szilagyi making a difference in the community. Sam, a senior business analyst in our Performance Metrics and Analysis group, was recently honored as a 2019 30 for the Future recipient by the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce.

Each year, the 30 for the Future program recognizes 30 young professionals, ages 25-39, who are trendsetters in their industries and make an impact through dynamic leadership and community service. They must live and/or work in the greater Akron region.

“This recognition means so much to me,” Sam said. “I have followed those who have won this award in the past, and they truly are the movers and shakers in the Akron community. I am proud to be recognized as one of them. This award not only encourages me to continue doing what I do, but it motivates me to influence others to find their passion in serving the Akron community.”

Maggie Myers, manager, Performance Improvement, Performance Metrics and Analysis, said she nominated Sam for the award because of her passion for community volunteering and the energy she brings to all of her fundraising campaigns.

“I am incredibly proud that Sam received this award. It reflects the impact she’s had on enriching the greater Akron area,” said Maggie. “Sam is deserving of this recognition not just for her past and ongoing fundraising efforts that benefit our community, but for the impact she has on motivating others to make valuable contributions to society.”

Sam serves on the board of the Ohio & Erie Canalway, is a mentor through FirstEnergy’s Helping Women GROW Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG) and is a committee member for our Women in Leadership EBRG. She has coordinated FirstEnergy’s fundraising efforts for the annual Polar Bear Jump benefiting the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank and has raised more than $200,000 on her own over the years. For 10 years, Sam coordinated numerous Harvest for Hunger efforts, and she’s a former member of the Junior Achievement board. In addition to her job and community volunteerism, Sam is mom to 3-year-old daughter, Ilianna, and is pursuing her Master of Business Administration.

“Our team constantly wonders when Sam sleeps because she’s always involved in multiple efforts to benefit the community and those in need,” Maggie said. “She’s a great role model for FirstEnergy’s core value of Social Responsibility.”