Milton Hershey School Honors Maria Trinh Kraus as 2026 Alumna of the Year

Milton Hershey School Recognizes Maria Trinh Kraus as Distinguished Alumna of the Year

HERSHEY, Pa., April 27, 2026 – The prestigious Milton Hershey School (MHS) has announced that Maria Trinh Kraus, a graduate from the class of 1989, is honored as its 2026 Alumna of the Year. This accolade is the highest recognition given to alumni, emphasizing remarkable achievements in professional life, exemplary leadership, and dedicated service to the school and its student body.

Maria Trinh Kraus is renowned across the nation as a highly respected business executive and serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Wedgewood Pharmacy. Her selection for this honor stems from her exceptional strategic vision, unwavering commitment to MHS's mission, and impactful contributions that have positively affected many students over the years.

"Maria represents the epitome of what Milton Hershey School stands for," stated Peter G. Gurt, MHS President and an alumnus of the class of 1985. “Her life demonstrates the transformative potential of education founded on opportunity—the same principles championed by our founders. Through her humility, insight, and ongoing dedication to our mission, she ensures our institution's growth and relevance for years to come.”

Kraus’s personal journey reflects the life-altering possibilities afforded by an MHS education. She joined the school community at the tender age of 10 following the tragic loss of her mother, confronting fears and challenges as a young girl. Within the nurturing environment of MHS, she discovered the stability and community she needed to flourish. Her academic prowess was evident as she graduated as valedictorian of her class, setting the ground for a successful career in finance, strategic planning, and corporate governance.

Today, with over 25 years of executive experience, Kraus holds a wealth of knowledge from significant roles at leading firms such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Bioclinica, and Accelerated Enrollment Solutions. Renowned for her collaborative and people-oriented management style, she continuously prioritizes sustainable growth and impactful change.

Beyond her corporate endeavors, Kraus is a prominent figure in various boards. Since 2018, she has participated on the boards of MHS, Hershey Trust Company, The Hershey Company, and The M.S. Hershey Foundation, fostering career-oriented educational opportunities like internships and mentorship programs that empower students in their future endeavors.

Notably, Kraus became the first female alumnus to be appointed chairperson of the boards of MHS, Hershey Trust Company, and The Hershey Company—a significant milestone reflecting her leadership capabilities and the sustained legacy of the Hershey family.

Despite her remarkable accomplishments, Kraus remains committed to gratitude and purpose. "I am here to create good," shared Kraus in her acceptance speech. "It is my goal to ensure that the Milton Hershey School Trust continues to serve countless students for generations to come. This school has profoundly changed my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back.”

Throughout her career and service, Kraus has passionately advocated for collaborative practices, aligning the various Hershey entities established by chocolate pioneer Milton S. Hershey to broaden availability and boost outcomes for students and alumni alike. Her vision has contributed to the establishment of a cohesive network that continuously opens doors for young adults.

"Receiving the Alumna of the Year award wasn’t a goal I consciously pursued," she stated. "However, when it results in work that positively influences lives, such recognition is truly an honor. What truly matters is whether we are building a foundation strong enough to support even more students in the future.”

Maria Trinh Kraus's journey—emerging from a background defined by loss to becoming a leader who is redefining the future of one of America’s most celebrated educational institutions—serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary possibilities that arise when aspiration meets opportunity.

About Milton Hershey School

Milton Hershey School is recognized globally as one of the premier private educational institutions, catering to students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. This institution provides an exceptional education, ensuring that all costs are covered for eligible students. To learn more, please visit mhskids.org.