Top People Changing Career Education Award

Linda Fedrizzi-Williams, Ed.D.

If you were to poll students at Central Penn College about their school’s president, they would describe Linda Fedrizzi-Williams, Ed.D., as beloved and inspiring. Not only an energetic fan at the school’s games and competitions, she is hailed as a driven leader in expanding opportunities for students before and after graduation.

During her nine years at Central Penn College, seven of those years as its president, she has strategically adapted its educational offerings to meet evolving workforce needs, such as dental assisting, surgical technology, legal studies, criminal justice, and behavioral health. Developing these programs has established a college-to-career pipeline for students, giving them the opportunity to step into a secure future by building skills that equip them to fill economic gaps and attract future employers.

Bringing her attention to the other side of career engagement, Fedrizzi-Williams is proactive in building mutually productive relationships with leading employers, including the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Police, GIANT Foods, and high schools and workforce development groups. Her advocacy has prepared these groups and others to consider Central Penn College graduates as potential employees ready to help organizations achieve new potential.

Fedrizzi-Williams’ relationships extend to area leaders, as well, appearing in circles beyond the immediate scope of education. Alongside these leaders, she has presented on a business panel, sharing her advice with poised professionalism and expertise. Her career insights have also been shared in popular journals, including Pennlive and Central Penn Business Journal, which featured one of her most recognized speeches, “10 ideas in 10 minutes.” Her investment and influence earned her a spot as one of the area’s “Power 100,” a recognition she has maintained for several consecutive years, and awards celebrating her for “Empowering Women” and as a “Woman of Influence.”

Through her outreach, Central Penn College has experienced an enriched reputation reaching state and federal levels, where Fedrizzi-Williams has garnered support in policy and funding. By positioning the college as a launchpad for students to enter their careers with confidence, it sets an example for those invested in career education to see how supporting that focus will help both students and their institutions thrive.

Of all the relationships Fedrizzi-Williams cultivates, the ones with her students matter most. Her work is energized by a focus on supporting students both academically and individually, and she leans into inclusivity by embracing first-generation students and expanding athletic offerings for both men and women.

Emphasizing career education in the curriculum at Central Penn College is perhaps the most impactful way Fedrizzi-Williams helps students succeed. Students in any program can expect immersion in a curriculum that will foster diverse skillsets translatable to the “real world.” Under Fedrizzi-Williams’ leadership, they are prepared for life after graduation and fruitful careers.