- Home »
- Leadership »
- Generation-E »
- Mary Bula
Mary Bula
by Emily Hartwig
After earning her master’s from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public & International Affairs, Bula worked as director of research for the Pennsylvania Economy League. In this role, Bula helped local governments operate more efficiently. For instance, she helped guide the formation, administration and programming of the Erie Area Council of Governments as well as other COGs throughout Pennsylvania. This work resulted in increased intergovernmental cooperation and more cost-efficient and effective public service delivery.
But it is Bula’s accomplishments while at eBizITPA for which she is particularly proud. She drafted legislative language and spearheaded a grass roots campaign that resulted in unanimous passage of the Local Government Unit Electronic Bidding Act, PA Act 88 of 2006. Act 88 gives Pennsylvania local government units – municipalities, school districts, COGs, authorities and others – the right to incorporate electronic bidding and reverse auctions into their competitive bidding processes.
Susan Breon, president of eBizITPA, knows first hand what an outstanding leader Bula has been in the Erie community. “Mary draws energy from her interaction with others and then returns that force to them through her enthusiasm and through positive reinforcement. She was a critical leader, cheerleader and communicator during the start-up years at eBizITPA, as we defined program parameters and partners. She also is responsible for one of the most important impacts eBizITPA will have on Pennsylvania for the long term – opening up electronic purchasing for municipalities and other public entities to lower their costs and ultimately taxpayer expense,” said Breon.
While extremely proud of her PA Act 88 accomplishments, Bula is the first to recognize that this wouldn’t have been achievable without the hard work and dedication of others. It is through this and other accomplishments that Bula gives a great piece of advice to young professionals. “Embrace the opportunity to work with and learn from those around you, and you will become part of a powerful force of positive change in our community. It is through shared vision and goals that the greater good can be accomplished.”
Bula has also dedicated much of her time to being extremely active in the Erie community. She currently serves as a mentor for Young Erie Professionals (yep!) and is a board and executive committee member for the Erie Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is also a loyal friend to many and loving mother to her son, Tristan.
Breon has often reflected on the outstanding balance that Bula has with her work and family life: “Amid her busy work schedule, she consistently creates quality time for her son, friends and family members, balancing a growing career with the other truly important things in life.”
There is no question that the Erie Regional Chamber is proud to have Bula as part of their team. As the new Growth Partnership executive director, she will work with businesses and community leaders to identify and move forward transformational community initiatives that will positively impact the region’s long-term economic future.