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STATE COLLEGE -- Nicole Masullo, senior vice president of Nittany MinitMart, has been recognized as one of the convenience store industry's leading professionals after being named to the 2026 Top Women in Convenience list.
The national award honors women making an impact across the convenience store industry. Masullo was recognized alongside leaders from some of the country's largest stores and brands, including Pilot, 7-Eleven, BP and PepsiCo.
Masullo was nominated by leaders at several companies that work closely with Nittany MinitMart. Her nominations emphasized her leadership in transforming Nittany MinitMart through strategic growth, operational improvements, innovation and a strong commitment to both employees and customers.
During her time with the company, she has helped lead the expansion of new store locations while continuing to elevate existing stores across Central Pennsylvania. She also continually encourages and motivates her team to pursue new ideas, improve the customer experience and embrace innovation throughout the organization.
"Nickie's leadership has played an incredible role in shaping who we are today," said Kaitie Rowles, food service category Manager at Nittany MinitMart, who also worked closely with Nickie at a previous company. "She's an expert in her field and she's passionate about serving customers and supporting the communities we serve."
Gary Golecki of Coremark, one of Nittany MinitMart's partners, nominated Masullo for the award because of her ability to inspire her team to succeed alongside her.
"Nickie believes in empowering her team, developing talent and creating an environment where accountability and support go hand in hand. Her leadership has cultivated a committed, capable team that takes pride in their work and shares her dedication to excellence," Golecki said. "Nickie's influence extends beyond her title. She is a strategic thinker, a disciplined operator, and a respected leader."
In addition to her operational leadership, Masullo has become widely recognized for her commitment to giving back.
During her tenure at Nittany MinitMart, she has helped build a culture centered on community support, leading initiatives that have raised more than $1 million for charitable organizations and local causes throughout the region.
Under her leadership, Nittany MinitMart has developed strong partnerships with animal shelters, nonprofits serving children in hospitals and organizations that assist families in need across Pennsylvania. She has also strengthened the company's connection to local communities through partnerships with schools, sponsorships of numerous high school athletic programs, and support of collegiate athletics, including Commonwealth University-Lock Haven.
Her commitment to service extends beyond everyday community involvement.
During national emergencies and natural disasters, Masullo has worked closely with vendors and community partners to coordinate donations of essential supplies to affected areas. She has also led successful in-store fundraising initiatives, including round-up campaigns that have generated significant support for charitable organizations and disaster relief efforts.
Through these efforts, Masullo has fostered a culture of generosity and community engagement that continues to make a meaningful impact across the region.
Masullo and her team previously received the 2025 CSNews Technology Leader of the Year gold award for small chains. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association and NACS PAC.
Colleagues describe Masullo as a driven and passionate leader who is excellent at her job and consistently puts others first.
"This award reflects not only Nicole's professional accomplishments, but also the care and compassion she brings to everything she does," said Ryan Scaife of senergy marketing, one of Masullo's nominators. "She is always willing to step up, find solutions and help others however she can."