Paul Straka, the Director of Business Development & Consulting at Service Access & Management, Inc. (SAM), has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Robert K. Greenleaf Award for Servant Leadership. This recognition took place on October 29, 2025, during an annual event at Seton Hall University, where Straka was inducted into the Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership Hall of Fame. The award celebrates individuals and organizations that prioritize the well-being of others, leading to significant positive impacts on communities and society.
Throughout his twelve years at SAM, Straka has demonstrated a profound commitment to servant leadership. Under his guidance, SAM has expanded its services to over 40,000 individuals across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania and eight counties in New Jersey. Straka’s leadership style focuses on empowering others, which has played a crucial role in the organization’s growth and reach.
In addition to his role at SAM, Straka actively serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations. His contributions support initiatives such as the local Area Agency on Aging, which aids senior citizens, and Avenues, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals with intellectual disabilities. Straka also serves as the fiscal chair of the Luzerne/Schuylkill Workforce Development Board, highlighting his commitment to community development and workforce stability.
Straka’s involvement extends to his local parish, Divine Mercy, where he serves as a Eucharistic Minister and participates in various fundraising efforts. His dedication to service reflects a deep personal commitment to improving lives in his community.
A graduate of the McCann School of Business, Straka earned degrees in Marketing and Management. He began his professional journey in banking, ultimately becoming a trust officer at M&T Bank in Buffalo. Following this, he took on the role of Deputy Administrator for the County of Schuylkill, further solidifying his leadership experience.
Mary Ann Kowalonek, President and CEO of SAM, praised Straka’s contributions, stating, “Throughout his career at SAM, Paul has exemplified the spirit of Servant Leadership and supported the growth of our organization as it grew to serve clients in all 67 counties in Pennsylvania and eight counties in New Jersey.” She extended her congratulations on his well-deserved recognition.
The Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership plays an essential role in promoting the values of servant leadership in various sectors. By honoring individuals like Straka, the organization encourages a culture of service, compassion, and community engagement across the globe.
With this award, Straka joins an esteemed group of leaders committed to making a difference in their communities, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. His achievements exemplify the impact of dedicated leadership and the importance of prioritizing the needs of others in all professional endeavors.
