Tony Kuhar

Tony’s love for dusty comic books, old B-movies, vintage toys, antiques, and loud music is only matched by his desire to help people, ensure Persad’s clients have access to food through the pantry, and keep the facility running smoothly. He started at Persad in 2005 working at the front desk and is currently the organization’s longest-tenured employee.

A native of the Philadelphia suburbs, Tony moved to Pittsburgh in 1991 and, over the years, has held many jobs, including grocery store deli worker, shopping cart collector, receiving clerk, and even senior designer at an LGBTQ+ newspaper start-up.

A graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, he was heavily involved in student government, activities, and clubs, ultimately serving as Student Activities Coordinator. He helped revamp the school newsletter, encouraged student involvement, and advocated for student concerns, including helping organize LGBTQ+ staff training initiatives.

Tony earned his bachelor’s degree in visual communication and graphic design and has remained active in the community, volunteering his time with Anti-Racist Action, safe sex education programs, Pittsburgh PrideFest, the Gay & Lesbian Community Center, the Thomas Merton Center, and many other organizations.