Susan began her fraternal journey in 1979 as an eldress with the First Catholic Slovak Union and has since held leadership roles at both local and national levels. She has been actively involved with numerous Slovak fraternal organizations, including the National Slovak Society, First Slovak Wreath of the Free Eagle, and Slovak Catholic Sokol. Since 2002, she has served as a National Director for the National Slovak Society, while also holding positions such as Treasurer for Region 5 and Secretary/Treasurer of Assembly L – 161. In addition, she has served the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance in several roles and is currently its President. From 2022 to 2024, she also served as Secretary of the Fraternal Societies of Greater Pittsburgh.
A passionate advocate for Slovak culture, Susan co-directs The Pittsburgh Slovakian Folk Ensemble and co-hosts the Western Pennsylvania Slovak Radio Hour. “Meeting and talking with our listeners at various events is the best part of hosting the show,” she said. She also founded the Junior Pittsburgh Slovakians, a children’s folk ensemble. One year, Susan found her way up to the stage to dance with the Pittsburgh Slovakians in Slovakia.
Susan has played a key role in organizing cultural events. One such event was coordinating entertainment for the Slovak Catholic Summerfest. The 2-day event was held at the Motherhouse of the St. Cyril & Methodious Sisters in Danville, PA. Sixteen folk ensembles entertained the over 2,000+ members of the combined fraternals who attended. She served seven years on the Pittsburgh Folk Festival board—four of them as Treasurer—and led the North Hills Junior Tamburitzan Parent Organization. Her expertise has also been sought by the Duquesne University Tamburitzans.
Fraternalism is truly a family affair in the Ondrejco household. The family’s involvement with FCSU began with her brother, Mike Lako, whose leadership included roles as Auditor for Branch 2, Treasurer of District 6, and later, Regional Director. Susan served many years as Treasurer for District 6 while also organizing District events and picnics.
Her husband, Rudy, began serving as Auditor for Branch 2 in 1976, and went on to serve as National Fraternal Director (2018–2022). He is currently the President of Branch 2. All three daughters have followed in their parents’ footsteps as well. Susan served two terms as National Fraternal Director (2010–2014, 2014–2018), Theresa served as National Fraternal Director (2006–2010), and Anna currently serves as Treasurer for Branch 2.
Over the years, she has earned many titles, but one of her most cherished remains queen. “In 1975, after a district-wide sales competition, I was crowned the Jednota Queen at the Convention in Toronto, Canada, alongside Joe Vehec, Jr., the Jednota King. Since the contest was never held again, I’m proud to say we’re still the reigning royalty!”
She’s been an active member of the Western PA Slovak Committee since 1975. A founding board member of the Western PA Slovak Cultural Association since 1997, she now serves on its advisory board. Since 2014, she has chaired ticketing for Slovak Day at Kennywood, now in its 102nd year, while also supporting multiple planning committees.
In recognition of her lifelong dedication to Slovak culture and fraternalism, Susan has received numerous honors, including two Medals of Honor from the Ambassador of Slovakia and the prestigious John Jordan Upchurch Award from the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance in 2023.
Each year, The Fraternal Societies of Greater Pittsburgh (FSGP) recognizes one member who demonstrates outstanding leadership, promotes the fraternal spirit, and has made valuable contributions to the community. This year they have chosen Susan M. Ondrejco as its 2025 Fraternalist of the Year.
To honor her achievements, a banquet was held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the South Hills Country Club in Pittsburgh, PA. The celebration recognized Susan’s decades-long dedication to fraternal benefit societies and her commitment to preserving Slovak heritage. “Being named Fraternalist of the Year is a great honor,” she says. “I am thankful to all those who inspired me, believed in me, and helped me along the way.”