Hempfield-based General Carbide CEO finalist for regional entrepreneurial award

A Hempfield businesswoman is in the running to be Entrepreneur of the Year for the East Central Region of the United States.

Mona Pappafava-Ray, president and CEO of General Carbide Corp., is a finalist in the competition that recognizes entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who excel in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.

Now in its 33rd year, the program established by Ernst & Young, LLP, has expanded to recognize business leaders in more than 145 cities and more than 60 countries throughout the world.

Pappafava-Ray, the second generation of the business now in its 51st year, was selected as a regional finalist by a panel of independent judges. Regional winners will be announced at a black-tie gala on June 13 at the Cincinnati Music Hall.

“This award is both a great personal honor and a testament to the strength of the General Carbide team,” Pappafava-Ray said. “Through our collective efforts, we have achieved a level of success which allows us to re-invest in the business and give back to the community.”

Regional award winners are eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur of the Year national competition.