Jim Thorpe Borough Manager Maureen Sterner was named “Borough Manager of the Year” by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce last week.

The Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception is an annual event that acknowledges the dedication and accomplishments of mayors, borough managers, township managers, supervisors and council members from Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Warren County, New Jersey. Each year, the Borough Manager, Township Manager and Mayor of the Year awards honor individuals who have made a significant impact on their communities, with nominations submitted by local residents and community members.

Sterner was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the borough and her unwavering commitment to community development.

She has successfully secured over $16 million in funding for vital infrastructure projects, including major sewer plant upgrades, a new Public Works garage and enhancements to Memorial Park.

Her leadership has also ensured that Jim Thorpe’s police and public service departments remain well-equipped to serve the community effectively.

The recognition came as a surprise to Sterner, who has served in that capacity since 2016.

“You get emotional,” Sterner said of the moment her name was called as one of the top municipal officials in the region. “It just warms your heart to think other people think that much of you to even nominate you.”

During her nine-year tenure as borough manager, Sterner points to securing funding for various borough projects as her team’s most significant achievement.

“It’s an astounding number that we have been able to secure but it’s not just me, it’s everyone working together,” she stated.

The funds, she added, have supported numerous important initiatives throughout Jim Thorpe. Sterner emphasized that the success wasn’t her accomplishment alone, but rather the result of effective collaboration.

“The teamwork that we’ve built up here to be able to work together, that is what I’m most proud of,” she said. “We have a tremendous working relationship with all the departments, so everyone backs each other, and that makes a huge difference in any job, particularly this one.

“I have been fortunate to have councils and mayors that support me. Commissioner (Michael) Sofranko has been a big supporter. I joke that I call him our closer on our grants.”

The award was introduced and presented by state Rep. Doyle Heffley.

“Maureen’s impact on Jim Thorpe and Carbon County as a whole is immeasurable,” said Kylie Adams-Weiss, senior vice president of the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, a proud partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. “Her efforts have not only enhanced the borough’s appeal as a top tourism destination but have also greatly improved the quality of life for its residents. Maureen’s ability to focus on both the borough’s present needs and long-term success ensures that Jim Thorpe continues to thrive.”

Looking ahead, Sterner said she hopes the borough can maintain the momentum.

“I hope that we can continue moving forward on the path we’ve had with upgrading all of the various items in the borough,” she said. “We’ve gone from wastewater treatment, we’re working on water, the retaining walls. There’s just so much that needs to be done, and just looking forward to staying on that steady path to get these large items done that aren’t normally items that you do on a day-to-day basis.”

Sterner was also quick to recognize those closest to her.

“My family ... I’ve been lucky to have John, my boyfriend, who has been with me through the entire journey and has supported me in every way possible,” she said.