April 15, 2025

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THE PENNSYLVANIA SOCIETY TO HONOR AMBASSADOR DAVID L. COHEN WITH GOLD MEDAL FOR DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT AT ANNUAL DINNER 

Business leader, former Ambassador, and civic champion to be recognized for his extraordinary contributions

 

PHILADELPHIA, PA (April 15, 2025) - The Pennsylvania Society today announced that Ambassador David L. Cohen – business executive, attorney, former U.S. Ambassador to Canada, and lifelong champion of charitable and civic engagement – will be this year’s recipient of the Pennsylvania Society’s Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement. Ambassador Cohen is being honored for his exceptional leadership, commitment to public service, and enduring contributions to Pennsylvania and beyond. The award will be presented at the Pennsylvania Society’s Annual Dinner on December 13, 2025,  at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.

 

"Ambassador David Cohen represents the quintessential success story – a leader who has consistently used his talents to elevate those around him," said Patricia D. Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society. "His ability to bridge divides and build consensus, whether in corporate boardrooms, diplomatic settings, or community initiatives, embodies the collaborative spirit The Pennsylvania Society has celebrated for over a century. As we gather at the Waldorf Astoria this December, we look forward to recognizing not just his impressive résumé, but the character and conviction that have defined his service to our Commonwealth and our country."

 

“David’s infinite energy, expert counsel, and extraordinary work ethic have benefitted everyone fortunate enough to be in his orbit, from business to philanthropy to City Hall to his service as ambassador to Canada,” said Brian Roberts, past Gold Medal honoree and Chairman and CEO of Comcast. “In everything he does, David’s impact is profound and lasting – and that was especially true during his almost 20 years with Comcast, where he was a trusted advisor to my dad and me. I’m thrilled David is being recognized by the Pennsylvania Society. He’s a most deserving recipient.”

 

Ambassador Cohen is an accomplished businessman, attorney, and diplomat, whose influence has shaped both Pennsylvania and the Nation. Nominated by President Joe Biden, and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Cohen served as United States Ambassador to Canada from 2021 to 2025, leading a team of 1,400 professionals from 28 agencies and strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations. 

 

Prior to his tenure as Ambassador, Cohen built an impressive career at Comcast NBCUniversal where he served as Senior Advisor to the CEO and Senior Executive Vice President. In these roles, he led critical initiatives in corporate communications, legal affairs, government and regulatory affairs, public affairs, corporate administration, corporate real estate and security, and community impact. 

 

Ambassador Cohen’s influence extends into law and public and community service. He was a partner in and Chair of Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, LLP, and Chief of Staff to Philadelphia Mayor Edward G. Rendell, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing the city.  

 

Beyond his professional achievements, Ambassador Cohen has dedicated his time and expertise to numerous philanthropic and civic organizations. He has served as chair of the boards of the University of Pennsylvania, Penn Medicine, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Philadelphia Theatre Company, and the FIFA World Cup 26 Philadelphia™ Host City Bid Committee, among many others.

 

Ambassador Cohen joins a distinguished group of past Pennsylvania Society Gold Medal recipients, including Jeanette Lerman-Neubauer and Joseph Neubauer, the Sheetz family, Edward G. Rendell and Marjorie O. Rendell, M. Night Shyamalan, Robert Casey, George H.W. Bush, Fred Rodgers, and other influential leaders who have left a lasting mark on Pennsylvania and the world. 

 

 

March 11, 2025

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THE PENNSYLVANIA SOCIETY TO HONOR CHRIS MARTIN OF C.F. MARTIN & CO WITH DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN OF THE COMMONWEALTH AWARD AT ANNUAL MEETING

 

PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 11, 2025) - The Pennsylvania Society announced today that C.F. “Chris” Martin, IV will be this year’s recipient of the Pennsylvania Society’s Distinguished Citizen of the Commonwealth award for his exceptional leadership, commitment to innovation, and dedication to philanthropy as Chairman of the Board of C.F. Martin & Co. He will be honored at the Pennsylvania Society’s Annual Meeting on April 3, 2025 at the Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, PA.

 

The Pennsylvania Society’s Distinguished Citizen of the Commonwealth award is given to a Pennsylvanian whose actions have extraordinarily benefited the Commonwealth. This award is not given on a yearly basis, but rather when the Society’s Council has identified a worthy recipient.

 

"We are pleased to honor Chris Martin, a sixth-generation leader of his family business, C.F. Martin & Co., with the esteemed Distinguished Citizen of the Commonwealth award," said Patricia D. Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society. “For nearly 200 years, Martin Guitars have been the instrument of choice by exceptional artists like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Neil Young, and John Mayer. Under Chris Martin’s leadership, this family business remains a staple of our Pennsylvania community while having a world-wide impact on the music industry. We are proud to present Chris with this award, and to have him continue to represent the Commonwealth on the global stage.”

 

Chris Martin is the sixth-generation leader in his family to run the iconic acoustic guitar manufacturer, C.F. Martin & Co. Throughout his career, he has strengthened Martin Guitar’s legacy of handcrafted excellence while expanding its reputation for innovation, sustainability, and philanthropy. Under his guidance, the company has introduced groundbreaking guitar designs, advanced environmentally responsible manufacturing, and forged lasting partnerships with artists and organizations. 

 

Beyond his role at C.F. Martin & Co., Martin is a passionate advocate for music education, environmental sustainability, democracy, and philanthropy. Through the Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation, he has led significant efforts to support music, arts, education, environmental action and human services groups. 

 

Previous recipients of the Pennsylvania Society’s Distinguished Citizen award include Princess Grace of Monaco, Justice Samuel Roberts, Ray S. Walker, Lewis J. Appell, Jr., Susan Hirt Hagen, John H. Glick, William F. Hecht and James H. Miller, James J. Maguire Sr. and Sister Mary Scullion.

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January 28, 2025

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 THE PENNSYLVANIA SOCIETY ANNOUNCES HISTORIC RETURN TO THE WALDORF ASTORIA FOR 127TH ANNUAL DINNER 

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PHILADELPHIA, PA (January 28, 2025) - The Pennsylvania Society announced today that its 127th Annual Dinner will return to its historic home at the Waldorf Astoria New York on December 13, 2025, marking a momentous homecoming after the hotel's extensive multi-year renovation. This will be the Society's first gathering at the iconic venue since 2016. 

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The Society has selected December 13, 2025 for this cherished celebration, hosting the event on the second Saturday in December, as was tradition for the Annual Dinner when held at the Waldorf Astoria in previous years. 

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"Returning to the Waldorf Astoria is truly a homecoming for The Pennsylvania Society," said Patricia D. Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society. "These halls have witnessed more than a century of Pennsylvania's leaders coming together in the spirit of unity and service. As we gather once again in this cherished space, we are reminded that our mission to honor achievement, promote goodwill, and celebrate service to the Commonwealth is more vital than ever. This return symbolizes not just an embrace of our heritage, but a renewal of our commitment to Pennsylvania's future.” 

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"We are delighted to welcome The Pennsylvania Society back to their home at Waldorf Astoria New York," said Luigi Romaniello, Managing Director of Waldorf Astoria New York. "As our longest-standing client, The Pennsylvania Society, which was founded onsite at the hotel, has been an integral part of our story for over a century. Their return following our renovation marks not just a continuation of tradition, but a celebration of our shared commitment to excellence and heritage. We look forward to once again hosting this prestigious gathering and creating new memories in our beautifully restored spaces." 

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The Pennsylvania Society, founded in 1899, stands as the nation's longest-lived organization of its kind. With more than1,500 members worldwide, this non-partisan organization has consistently brought together leaders from across the Commonwealth and beyond to celebrate Pennsylvania's achievements and foster a spirit of unity and service. 

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The historic return to the Waldorf Astoria presents an opportunity for new members to become part of this cherished tradition. The Society welcomes all individuals who share its commitment to celebrating and serving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join its ranks and participate in this landmark event.

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November 14, 2024

 

Pennsylvania Society President Patricia D. Wellenbach authored an op-ed featured in Go Erie. Please click here to read her essay.

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August 13, 2024

 

LONGTIME ERIE BUSINESS, CIVIC AND PHILANTHROPIC LEADER THOMAS B. HAGEN TO RECEIVE 2024 GOLD MEDAL FOR DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT

 

Gold Medal to be Presented at The Pennsylvania Society’s
126th Annual Dinner in NYC on December 7

 

WILLOW GROVE (Aug. 13, 2024) – Patricia Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society, today announced that Erie business, civic and philanthropic leader Thomas B. Hagen will receive The Pennsylvania Society’s highest honor when he accepts the 2024 Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement at the Society’s Annual Dinner on December 7, 2024 in New York City. Hagen, himself a former President of the Society, will be feted by members and friends as The Pennsylvania Society celebrates and honors Pennsylvania’s leadership in the economic and industrial life of our nation.

 

Thomas B. Hagen has been a business and civic leader for more than 60 years. He is chairman and a former CEO of theFortune 500 listed Erie Insurance Group and also chairman of Custom Engineering Co. A retired U.S. Navy Captain, Tom served as the first Secretary of the Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) in the Governor Tom Ridge Administration. He was co-founder and past chairman of Team Pennsylvania Foundation and a past Chairman of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry.

 

“Anyone who has been closely affiliated with The Pennsylvania Society over the last several decades has benefitted from Tom Hagen’s wisdom, generosity, and kindness. I am fortunate to count myself among them,” said Wellenbach. “Tom embodies what it means to be of service to the Commonwealth we all love. Because of Tom’s selfless nature and his humility, we are so pleased to highlight his philanthropic and civic contributions throughout the Keystone State, far beyond his many business successes. For more than six decades, Tom Hagen has exemplified a life of service in a variety of endeavors for the benefit of his community, his Commonwealth, and his country. For that we are grateful and are honored to celebrate his remarkable contributions this December.”

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Wellenbach noted that while Tom Hagen continues to make significant philanthropic contributions in local, statewide, and national non-profit organizations, historic property restoration efforts, and economic development initiatives, he has left a particularly indelible mark on his hometown of Erie, Pennsylvania. He has funded the Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Transformational Philanthropy at the Erie Community Foundation, the first of its kind for philanthropy in Greater Erie; the restoration of the historic main building at the beloved Erie Zoo; the Susan Hirt Hagen Center for Community Outreach, Research and Evaluation (CORE) at Penn State Behrend Campus; and the Hagen History Center. Tom is also personally investing in the revitalization of Erie through Erie Restorations, LLC and the Historic Preservation Trust that he founded and chairs. A trustee of American Ancestors in Boston and a recipient of Preservation Pennsylvania’s Otto Haas Award, Tom has led the restoration of over 20 houses in the West Sixth Street Historic District with plans to preserve and maintain a total of more than 40 buildings as part of this initiative.

 

Born in Buffalo, NY, Tom moved to Erie at age seven and attended Erie Public Schools, graduating from Strong Vincent High School. He attended Penn State Behrend and received a B.S. degree in Business from The Ohio State University, where he was a Griffith Scholar and President of the Insurance Society.  He also holds an Honorary Doctorate in Public Service from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and Honorary Doctor of Laws from Mercyhurst University where the History Department is named in his honor. 

 

Tom and his late wife, Susan Hirt Hagen, a prominent community leader, philanthropist and Distinguished Citizen of the Commonwealth, are the parents of two: Jonathan Hirt Hagen, Vice Chairman of Erie Insurance and Sarah Hagen McWilliams, a Trustee of the Erie Community Foundation and a Trustee of the Chautauqua Institution; and, grandparents of three.    

 

The Society’s Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement was founded in 1908 and is presented annually to a prominent person, or persons, in recognition of leadership, citizenship and contributions to the arts, science, education and industry. In addition to the honor itself, The Pennsylvania Society contributes $25,000 annually to a Pennsylvania charity chosen by the recipient of the Gold Medal. Thomas B. Hagen’s charity will be announced at the Annual Dinner to be held at the New York Hilton Midtown.

 

 

June 24, 2024

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PATRICIA WELLENBACH ELECTED PENNSYLVANIA SOCIETY PRESIDENT

 

Wellenbach unanimously approved during Society’s Annual Meeting in Scranton 

 

WILLOW GROVE (June 24, 2024) – In a unanimous vote during its Annual Meeting in Scranton, members of The Pennsylvania Society elected Patricia Wellenbach, the President & CEO of Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, as the Society’s next president. Wellenbach succeeds Elizabeth Preate Havey, who served as president since 2022. Formed in 1899, The Pennsylvania Society has more than two-thousand members around the Commonwealth, the United States and the world and is the longest-lived organization of its kind in the country.

 

“My sincere thanks to Liz for serving the Society with distinction over these last two years,” said Wellenbach. “I welcome the opportunity to serve as President of The Pennsylvania Society and work in partnership with the members of Council to advance the Society and its mission and values. Now more than ever, the Society’s commitment to civic engagement, civil discourse and fellowship will distinguish us in all that we undertake on behalf of the Commonwealth and its citizens. 

 

“In 2026, our country will celebrate 250 years of democracy and Pennsylvania will be in the spotlight. It is my hope that the Society will be an exemplar of the vision that the Founders saw for the future of the democracy they created.” 

 

Patricia D. Wellenbach was named Strategy Advisor to the CEO of Please Touch Museum in November of 2015 as part of a planned leadership succession, and in March 2016, she assumed the helm of the Museum as its President and CEO. Founded in 1976, Please Touch Museum is an internationally recognized leader in integrating play and early childhood learning. She was selected as the incoming CEO based on her demonstrated experience in managing complex organizations undergoing transformational change and creating business models that assures long-term sustainability for those businesses.  

 

“I could not be more delighted to pass the presidential baton to Trish, who during her time serving on Council already has proven to be an exceptional leader and steadfast steward of the Society,” said Preate Havey. “Working together with our new Executive Director Heather Greenleaf, Trish is well positioned for a successful tenure as the Society’s next president.”

 

Since 2021, Wellenbach has served as the first woman board chair of Thomas Jefferson University, one of the largest employers in Philadelphia. She is also a recipient of the Directorship 100 Award from the National Association of Corporate Directors.

 

A cum laude graduate of Boston College School of Nursing, Wellenbach also holds a certificate from the UCLA Anderson School of Management’s Healthcare Executive Program. She is frequently invited to speak on topics including leadership, organizational change, and governance.

 

Trish and her husband, Larry McMichael, reside in Philadelphia. She is an active member of the Union League, a member of the board of directors of NCAD Philadelphia, and served on the Transition Steering Committee for Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker. She enjoys spending time with her extended family including her five grandchildren and spending summers boating on the Chesapeake. 

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