Dual Career: Allegheny County Manager Builds Picnic Brand

Tierra Thorne balances two distinct careers in Pittsburgh. She serves as the clinical and wellness manager for Allegheny County while also running a private business that sells food experiences.

Thorne, 36, was named a 2026 honoree in the 40 Under 40 list by Pittsburgh Magazine. Her day job focuses on the youth support partner unit, a peer-support program. She describes her role as ensuring staff are supported while they help young people navigate difficult situations.

"A huge part of my role is making sure we’re taking care of the people who spend their days taking care of other people," Thorne said.

Her second venture, Blanket & Board, launched in 2020. Thorne started the luxury picnic and charcuterie company during the pandemic to create spaces for joy and community. The business has hosted various events across Pittsburgh, including girl-empowerment sessions and a picnic for mothers who lost children to gun violence.

Thorne holds additional positions in the local education and health sectors. She serves as an Executive in Residence at the University of Pittsburgh. She also sits on the boards for The Midwife Center and the Healthy Village Learning Institute. She attributes her ability to manage these roles to having multiple talents.

"You can have multiple gifts and actually use all of them," she said.