Board Member Spotlight: Marie Pelloni

At Queens Gambit, our board members exemplify what it means to lead with strategy, service, and heart. Marie Pelloni is no exception.

As Senior Director of Talent & Workforce Innovation Initiatives at the Pittsburgh Technology Council and its nonprofit arm, FortyX80, Marie works to strengthen Pittsburgh’s innovation ecosystem by connecting diverse talent with opportunities across the region’s growing STEM industries. She leads initiatives that build bridges between education and technology, from K–12 STEM programs and leadership opportunities for high school girls to workforce development events like the Winning Talent Together series and the Pittsburgh Career Connector.

Before joining the Tech Council, Marie spent ten years as a middle school STEM educator and later transitioned into curriculum development, combining her passion for teaching with her expertise in building future-ready learning pathways. A proud graduate of Penn State University (B.S.) and Slippery Rock University (M.S.), Marie’s leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to education and innovation.

So what inspired her to join Queens Gambit?

“It’s the mission - inspiring and equipping students to think strategically through the game of chess,” she says.

For Marie, chess captures the essence of learning itself.

“When you learn chess, you learn to do two things - to consistently think about what’s next, and to adapt and be agile when the unexpected happens. Success is built on these two things. It’s beautiful.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to see Queens Gambit continue scaling its impact:

“I hope to see the number of instructors grow to support more students in more communities.”

And beyond her professional achievements, Marie brings a joyful spirit to everything she does - from running, reading, coaching, and cooking to an unexpected hobby that might surprise you: beekeeping!

Fun Fact: “I’m terrified of things that pop!”

A passionate advocate for curiosity and growth, Marie embodies what it means to play the long game - inspiring others to think ahead, make bold moves, and embrace every next step with purpose.