OUR LEADERSHIP

President & CEO

John Wilgers

What working in this community means to me: “I believe everyone has a responsibility to serve others, and United Way is a great place for me to fulfill that responsibility in a community that I’ve grown to love.”

John joined Greater Twin Cities United Way as president and CEO in May 2019.

John comes to United Way after 35 years at Ernst & Young where he most recently held the position of managing partner of the Minneapolis office, successfully leading teams through recessions, turnarounds and major wins and losses. A passionate community advocate for more than 10 years, John has served in several United Way roles, including board chair, member of the executive committee of the board, volunteer, fundraiser and donor. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from the University of Kansas.

A native of Kansas, John has lived in the Twin Cities region for the past 14 years. He has three grown children and lives in Minnetonka with his wife, Trudy.

Vice President, Human Resources

Juli Durda

Inspiration: “We all do better when we all do better.” — Paul Wellstone

What working in this community means to me: “The opportunity to see our community thrive is my passion. Working at Greater Twin Cities United Way has given me the opportunity to align my passion with my career as a human resources business partner. The outstanding work that our organization supports throughout the nine-county area in which we serve and our very talented team of employees fuels my passion daily!”

As Vice President of Human Resources, Juli is responsible for supporting the organization’s talent through recruiting, onboarding, equity leadership support, career and organizational development, performance management, compensation and benefits, employee relations, risk management and training.

Juli has over 25 years of human resources leadership experience working in services, technology manufacturing, consulting and retail industries. She completed her undergraduate and graduate coursework at the University of Minnesota. Juli has her senior professional in human resources and Korn Ferry competency framework and agility certifications and is a qualified administrator for the Intercultural Development Inventory and DISC assessments.

Juli and her husband, Tom, call Eden Prairie home with regular trips to Florida in the winter. They enjoy golf, all things Minnesota Gopher sports, boating and biking.

Chief Financial Officer

Athena Mihas

Inspiration: “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

What working in this community means to me: “I am blessed to have meaningful work that makes a difference every day in the lives of my fellow human beings. I believe we are all interconnected, and the community is my extended family. It brings me joy to be of service to others.”

Athena joined United Way in September 2015. She oversees United Way’s teams responsible for the delivery of finance, information services, facility management and support services to our donors, volunteers, partner agencies and employees.

Prior to United Way, Athena served as vice president of finance for Volunteers of America of Minnesota and Wisconsin. She has also served in leadership roles for several other nonprofit organizations, including Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota; Washburn Center for Children; Hearthstone of Minnesota; Church of St. Stephen; VISTAR Youth Horizons; and Amicus. Athena holds an MBA from the University of St. Thomas and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota.

Athena is a longtime and passionate supporter of the nonprofit sector and has served in senior leadership roles for over 25 years. Her nonprofit leadership experience includes finance, fundraising, information services, human resources, marketing, facilities management, direct service and board service.

Senior Vice President, Advancement

Kristina Salkowski

Inspiration: “Be humble in your confidence yet courageous in your character.”— Melanie Koulouris

What working in this community means to me: “It is my privilege to serve our community through my work at Greater Twin Cities United Way. I am humbled by the people and institutions that make up the generosity and conscious of the Twin Cities and grateful for the opportunity to live and partner with so many selfless and caring businesses, organizations and people.”

With nearly 20 years of nonprofit development and management experience, Kristina leads a team focused on corporate and foundation donors at Greater Twin Cities United Way. Her team is responsible for partnerships with key corporations and foundations — helping collaborate, connect and create solutions that drive transformational community impact.

Prior to joining United Way, Kristina managed distinguished giving and events at the American Cancer Society. She holds degrees from The University of Minnesota where she studied political science, sociology and social work. Following graduation, Kristina served as the director of a nonprofit in the Twin Cities overseeing case managers for youth exiting treatment and detention centers.

Kristina lives in Hudson, Wisconsin, with her husband Eric and two children. Outside of work she is active in her church and children’s school. Kristina enjoys traveling, reading, swimming and spending time with family and friends.

Vice President, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Sherry Sanchez Tibbetts

Inspiration: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”— Proverb

What working in this community means to me: “It’s an honor to be part of a team that is committed to ensuring that all voices and perspectives are recognized — and amplified.”

As Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Greater Twin Cities United Way, Sherry oversees inclusive strategy design and data use; leads efforts to operationalize DEI initiatives; and advances partnerships across corporate, community and tribal spaces.

Sherry thrives on challenges, embraces change and continuously seeks opportunities to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Prior to joining United Way, Sherry served as the senior director of diversity, equity and inclusion for the Alzheimer’s Association, Minnesota-North Dakota Chapter. While at the Association, she collaborated with the Telemundo Network to conceptualize a Spanish language multimedia awareness campaign, created engagement strategies to address health disparities in African American communities, and developed and co-led a national workgroup focused tribal engagement.

Sherry earned her bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a juris doctor from St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio, and she is certified in nonprofit accounting. Sherry is a team captain for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, is on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Humanities Center, and is a member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council.

Outside of work, Sherry is a cardio-boxer, beginner sculptor and a lifelong NBA fan.

Senior Vice President, Community Impact

Shannon Smith Jones

Inspiration: “There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle, because we do not lead single-issue lives. Our struggles are particular, but we are not alone. What we must do is commit ourselves to some future that can include each other and to work toward that future with the particular strengths of our individual identities.” – Audre Lorde

What working in this community means to me: “My family has been in the Greater Twin Cities for at least five generations. So, I think about the leadership that they’ve had in creating a better space for me to live in and more opportunities for me. It means continuing to extend that legacy of doing community work where people are positively impacted. It’s about showing up for each other in the broadest sense.”

As senior vice president of community impact, Shannon oversees United Way’s grantmaking strategy, strategic community partnerships, coalition building and systems change with a focus on strengthening the connective tissues of our work while keeping the community voice centered in everything we do.

Prior to joining the team at United Way, Shannon spent six years as the executive director of Hope Community, a nonprofit organization focused on community building through housing, organizing, art, food and leadership development. She has extensive experience working at local nonprofits, including Urban Homeworks, Sabathani Community Center and Pillsbury United Communities.

A devoted volunteer and community leader, Shannon serves on numerous boards and committees, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art Board of Trustees, the Advisory Committee for the Minnesota Business Coalition for Racial Equity, and the Community Advisory Board for Mapping Prejudice.

She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in family social science from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Arts degree in leadership and management from Concordia University, St. Paul. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs where she teaches Neighborhood Revitalization Strategies and Theories.

Shannon is a lifelong resident of North Minneapolis where she sings in the church choir, enjoys having Sunday dinner with her family, solving puzzles and, like any Minnesotan, loves spending time in a boat on the lakes.

Vice President, Individual Giving & Donor Diversification

Mala Thao

Inspiration: “If we want to see change in our lives, we have to change things ourselves.” —Grace Lee Boggs

What working in this community means to me: “As a Hmong/Thai refugee American I am passionate about creating a more inclusive and positive working space for all. Working in this community enables me to help organizations and staff to have a deeper understanding of the many facets of identity, justice and equity.”

As the Vice President of Individual Philanthropy, Mala helps donors become smarter philanthropists and strengthens Greater Twin Cities United Way’s mission to advocate for social good and develop solutions to address the challenges communities face.

Mala started her career in philanthropy more than 20 years ago with Women’s Foundation of Minnesota and gained additional fundraising experience in various nonprofits and foundations, such as Washburn Center for Children, Asian American/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy, Indian Land Tenure Foundation and American Red Cross. Prior to joining GTCUW, Mala was a philanthropic advisor at Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation for 10 years.

Mala grew up on St. Paul’s Eastside and now calls the city’s Frogtown neighborhood home. She is a fierce advocate for social justice and has volunteered on boards and committees, such as Headwaters Foundation for Justice and Facilitating Race & Equity Conference (FREC). Mala has been appointed by the Mayor of St. Paul to serve as Commissioner of the Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO) and has also been appointed by the Metropolitan Council to serve on the Livable Communities Advisory Committee (LCAC). When Mala is not working or fighting for social justice, she spends her time as a foodie.

Program Officer, 80x3

Jamie Bonczyk

Inspiration: “There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” – Desmond Tutu

What working in this community means to me: “To me, working in this community is an opportunity to experience the realities and hear the stories of children, families and those who care for them. This grounds me in my work.”

Jamie oversees “80×3: Resilient from the Start” — an innovative region-wide initiative to increase capacity to provide trauma-sensitive early child care in a safe, stable environment that supports child resiliency.

Jamie Bonczyk is a leader in early childhood education who strives to create social-impact networks, change initiatives and partnerships that create sustainable health and education outcomes for children, families and educators. Her background includes the roles of executive director of an early learning non-profit, Head Start administrator, adjunct instructor, author, professional development content creator, and preschool teacher. Jamie has a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a master’s degree from Roosevelt University, both in early childhood education. She completed a Head Start Management Fellowship at UCLA and became a Certified Professional Project Manager through the University of St Thomas.

Jamie and her family call Richfield home. They love to play games, travel, and play with their dog. A natural storyteller with a love of humor, Jamie can occasionally be found on the stage of Strike Theater. For self-care, Jamie has regular Pilates and meditation practices.

Senior Program Officer, Mental Health & Suicide Prevention

Carolina De Los Rios

Inspiration: “Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor.”— Thich Nhat Hanh

What working in this community means to me: “Being a Latina immigrant woman, I have a personal appreciation of how gender, class, race and national origin intersect and impact our ability to experience health and well-being. My personal and professional experience have allowed me to be a passionate advocate for increasing access to mental health to traditionally underserved communities.”

Carolina oversees the suicide prevention lifeline program responsible for providing free and confidential suicide risk assessment, emotional support, crisis intervention and linkages to local treatment and support resources, including emergency services. The Greater Twin Cities United Way Suicide Prevention Lifeline is part of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network, which includes more than 180 crisis centers located in communities across the country.

Carolina has over 14 years of experience overseeing social services and mental health programs for survivors of trauma in Washington, D.C. Prior to joining United Way, she was the director of social services at Ayuda and prior to that, the director of survivor services at Polaris. Carolina holds a doctorate in language, literacy and culture from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Towson University; and a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. She also holds a graduate certificate in professional counseling studies from the University of Baltimore.

Outside of work, Carolina enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga and connecting with nature.

Program Officer, Education

Carrie Zelin Johnson

Inspiration: “Our goal is to create a beloved community, and this will require a qualitative change in our souls as well as a quantitative change in our lives.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

What working in this community means to me: “Because I live and work in the same community where I raised my family, I find it natural and rewarding to build authentic cross-cultural relationships and work towards community-based solutions. I enjoy collaborating directly with children, families, and teachers to address gaps and overcome disparities.”

Carrie is a program officer on the community impact team, where she drives education outcomes and leads the Start Early Funders Coalition. She is working to build a community where all people thrive regardless of income, race, or place.

Carrie joined Greater Twin Cities United Way with an extensive background in education and mental health. She worked as a consultant for over 20 years helping organizations and schools improve equitable outcomes. As Way to Grow’s former director of education, Carrie led home visiting programming and accredited preschools by implementing culturally and linguistically responsive curriculums. She attended the University of Minnesota and earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture with a minor in cultural and social perspectives in urban and housing design. She also holds a master’s degree in education with a focus on leadership.

Carrie continues to volunteer in her local community with a focus on equity in education and mental health. Being a parent and working as a mental health practitioner gives her a unique perspective on systemic issues impacting children and families. Carrie and her husband Dunyell have five children and live in North Minneapolis where they enjoy traveling, gardening, and hiking.

Associate Vice President, Community Impact

Stephannie Lewis

Inspiration: “Charity asks, ‘What’s wrong, how can I help?’ Justice asks, ‘Why is it happening and how can I change it?’”— Marshall Ganz

What working in this community means to me: “It means understanding the importance of when and how to lead, follow and partner. When thoughtfully and consistently practiced, these disciplines build community trust creating a pathway for sustainable change.”

Stephannie drives the development and effective implementation of operations strategy, team performance and project management initiatives for the community impact team.

Prior to joining the team at United Way, Stephannie as the director of strategic partnerships for Social Impact Strategies Group (SISG). During her tenure at SISG, she also served as a visiting assistant professor at Macalester College teaching Black entrepreneurship. As a consultant, Stephannie established operation systems and processes for startups and early-growth staged businesses. She holds a bachelor’s of science degree in sociology from Hamline University and a master’s degree in public policy with a self-designed concentration in social welfare policy from the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs.

As a member of the Forge North Collective, Inclusive Capital Collective, and advisory board member of the City of Lakes Commercial Land Trust, Stephannie works to advance equity and inclusion in the Twin Cities entrepreneur ecosystem. In her downtime, she enjoys concert-going, dining out, traveling and being an “aunt mom” to her 13 nieces, nephews, and dog-niece, Reeses.

Program Officer, Food Security

Ho Nguyen

Inspiration: “Our ultimate objective in learning about anything is to try to create and develop a more just society.” — Yuri Kochiyama

What working in this community means to me: “It is a an honor and privilege working in this community. This community is my home. Working in community means working alongside our partners by amplifying and championing their work of building a more just and equitable region.”

Ho is a Program Office within the holistic grantmaking team overseeing the Food Security portfolio. She leads outcomes towards a more food secure region by collaborating with partners who are addressing the conditions that enable food insecurity to occur in our communities by tackling both the immediate needs and root causes.

Prior to joining the team at United Way, Ho spent more than a decade working for equity and justice across the non-profit sector. Through a combination of direct service, organizing, policy, and advocacy, she has championed issues of reproductive rights, housing, and economic and racial justice. Most recently, she was the Director of Programs at The Food Group – an organization working at the intersection of food access and nutrition. She has also served as the Director of Housing and Economic Justice at Violence Free Minnesota – the statewide coalition working to end relationship abuse.

Ho holds a BA in Sociology and Political Science from Hamline University and an MA in Public Policy and Leadership from the University of St Thomas. Outside of work, Ho enjoys eating her way through the Twin Cities, long extended road trips, and building a loving community of friends and family. She lives with her wife in St. Paul.

Director, 211 Resource Helpline and 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Julie Ogunleye

Inspiration: “The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life.” — Jane Addams

What working in this community means to me: “To me, working in this community means being a listener, learner and humble partner. It means seeking a variety of perspectives and acting on what we hear. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to work alongside such thoughtful partners, community members and colleagues to address disparities in our region.”

Julie leads United Way’s 211 information and referral program and 988 suicide prevention and crisis lifeline. She oversees our local 211 and 988 contact centers, builds strategic community partnerships and lifts up community insights in support of advocacy and systems improvement efforts. Julie is on a mission to make it as easy as possible to ask for and receive help when it’s needed, and to enable community-centered and data-informed decision making.

Prior to her role current role, Julie spent ten years working with Twin Cities companies to achieve their corporate social responsibility goals, engage their employees and raise donations for local community issues. She studied political science and urban development at Minnesota State University, Mankato and earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Julie lives in Shoreview with her husband and two sons. In her free time, she enjoys listening to podcasts, making sure her garden has more plants than weeds, cooking food her kids describe as “yucky” and good conversations with family and friends.

Program Officer, Housing

Jay Wagner

Inspiration: “I believe that the community – in the fullest sense: a place and all its creatures – is the smallest unit of health, and that to speak of the health of an isolated individual is a contradiction in terms.” — Wendell Berry, Health is Membership

What working in this community means to me: “Working in community is listening, elevating lived experience, and honoring diverse perspectives and approaches. My work in this community is about partnering to build efficient, equitable tools and strategies that support communities to sustainably thrive.”

Jay is a Program Officer on the holistic grantmaking team, where he focuses on driving innovative and equitable strategies for responding to homelessness and housing instability in our community. In this role, Jay partners with organizations across the metro who are leading vital work toward the vision of homelessness being rare, brief, and non-recurring.

Prior to joining the team at United Way, Jay worked in the direct service sector of the homeless response and prevention field for 20 years. Jay’s experience in the field started as a recipient of services and led to a variety of roles, including provision of shelter, street outreach, and case management services. Over the course of the last 10 years, Jay has had the privilege of providing leadership to programs and community coalitions representing diverse approaches to ending homelessness, emphasizing the centering of lived experience and culturally responsive evidence-based practices. He received a Bachelors in Sociology from Grand Valley State University.

Jay and his wife live in the north metro, where they cultivate over 1500 square feet of vegetable gardens, tend a small flock of chickens, tap trees for maple syrup, and make their own bread. They enjoy spending time outdoors, reading, playing games, cooking, and planning their next vacation to Michigan’s upper peninsula.

Program Officer, Education

Steven Walvig

Inspiration: “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.” — Kofi Annan

What working in this community means to me: “I am thrilled and honored to work with an amazing array of colleagues, community partners and organizations supporting educational and leadership development opportunities for our youth. Together, I know we can build a region where all youth have the ability to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.”

Steven is a program officer within the holistic grantmaking and equity team where his portfolio is focused on education in out-of-school time (OST) and career and future readiness. In this role, Steven supports youth, youth development programs and youth-serving organizations. His team works to enhance and transform the lives of all children, preparing them for the future workforce and supporting them as they build the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and relationships necessary to succeed in our highly technical and globally connected world.

Prior to joining United Way, Steven was the director of education at The Bakken Museum, leading nationally-acclaimed, award-winning STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education programs. He also served as chief executive for two statewide STEM-based nonprofit organizations, SciMathMN and the Minnesota Science Teachers Association (MnSTA). As board chairman of SciMathMN and President of MnSTA, Steven successfully led and directed strategic planning, fundraising, and mission-related activities. He received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota.

Steven volunteers his professional STEM education expertise in a variety of roles. He recently served as the National Science Teaching Association’s (NSTA) Informal Science Division Director and a board member of NSTA. Steven is a proud Minnesotan who loves biking, rock climbing, photography and being outside as often as possible.

Senior Program Officer, Career Academies

Liz Williams

Inspiration: “Hope is the belief that our tomorrows can be better than our todays. Hope is not magic; hope is work.” ― DeRay Mckesson

What working in this community means to me: “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work in partnership with and to learn from community. To me, working in community means listening, honoring lived experience, centering youth voice and amplifying diversity in expertise.”

Liz Williams works with Greater Twin Cities United Way as a Program Officer for Career Academies, collaborating with school districts and partners to reimagine school systems as a lever for community wealth building. Liz works closely with our partners in Southwestern Minnesota and St. Paul Public Schools.

Before United Way Liz worked at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center where she led work with charter school authorization and STEM career pathways. She has taught and worked in both urban and rural communities in New Mexico and Minnesota and is a licensed teacher. She received her Bachelor of Arts from University of Minnesota and her Master of Education Policy and Management from Harvard.

Liz lives in the West Seventh neighborhood of St. Paul with her partner, two kids and loveable rottweiler. Liz also volunteers with community organizations and movements that center on racial and educational equity and empowering youth voices. Outside of work, Liz likes to spend time with friends and family, and stays active by playing ice hockey and exploring the city.

Senior Donor Advisor

Tony Carr

Inspiration: “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” — William Faulkner

What working in this community means to me: “Working in this community provides me with the ability to create awareness and to give back to the underserved and socially, economically challenged communities from which I came. Everyone deserves to live their best life and I want to make people aware that there are opportunities to change circumstances.”

Tony joined Greater Twin Cities United Way as a Senior Donor Advisor in 2021. He loves to create and sustain strong trusting relationships with donors. His motto is: “Shake a hand. Make a friend.” Raising funds and informing donors about how they make a difference is rewarding and healing to the community.

Prior to joining the organization, Tony spent 14 years working at the American Red Cross, most recently as a Regional Philanthropy Officer. During his career with the Red Cross, he was also in corporate sales and served as a Community Program Director where he managed the Nursing Assistant Program, Emergency Medical Technician Program, Multicultural Outreach Program and Senior Transportation.

Tony lives in Stillwater, Minnesota with his wife Amy. They have four daughters. Tony serves as a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board and spent eight years as a former member and chairperson for the City of Stillwater Human Rights Commission. In his free time, he is a public speaker on bias and stereotypes and avid basketball junkie that is well known for helping youth basketball programs in the community. He is also the author of a book titled “Time Bring About a Change.”

Principal Gifts Officer

Deborah Hanson

Inspiration: “Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness.” — Amy Collette

What working in this community means to me: “The Twin Cities are filled with generous people. The positive difference we can make together in our neighbors’ lives is remarkable, and always inspires me.”

As principal gift officer, Deborah works with generous individuals and business leaders who partner with Greater Twin Cities United Way to help others succeed through current and future investments in transformational work across the community. She enjoys sharing the impact these individuals and leaders’ gifts make with her donors first-hand.

Prior to joining United Way, Deborah served as a senior development leader in multiple capacities at Minnesota Public Radio, TPT-Twin Cities PBS, and the Minnesota Orchestra. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a bachelor’s degree in history.

Deborah is active with the Minnesota Planned Giving Council and the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She has served on the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Foundation board and chaired the university’s Advancement Council. She and her husband, Steve, enjoy traveling, the arts, and spending time with their wide circle of friends and family.

Planned Giving Officer

Linne Lemke, CFRE

Inspiration: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” — Dalai Lama

What working in this community means to me: “People in Minnesota are truly generous. I have the honor of witnessing the joy donors experience when they invest in making a lasting impact in the lives of people in our community — it’s humbling and inspiring. I enjoy working with donors who are helping others to ensure that all people can thrive and live to their full potential.”

Linne joined the Greater Twin Cities United Way in 2021 and works with individual donors who believe that all people in our community deserve the opportunity to thrive especially people who are marginalized by race, income or place.

Linne earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification from St. Thomas Opus College of Business in 2016. She serves on the board of directors of the Minnesota Gift Planning Association (MGPA) and is a member of the WCA Foundation. Prior to joining GTCUW, Linne worked at Second Harvest Heartland and Angel Foundation. Linne and her husband Bruce are native Minnesotans and live in an old farmhouse they have renovated over many years. Linne enjoys visiting the North Shore, boating, being outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

Principal Gifts Officer

Donna Moores

Inspiration: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” — John Wesley

What working in this community means to me: “This community’s love for each other—and the world as a whole—is evident. I care about working to level the playing field so equity for all is a reality for everyone who lives in the Greater Twin Cities and is demonstrated by opportunities to learn, prosper and make an impact on the community in their own way.”

As a principal gifts officer, Donna has the joy of getting to know and work with generous, caring individuals as well as families and business leaders who want to fund current work or create new opportunities through Greater Twin Cities United Way. She finds donors’ insight, wisdom, empathy and leadership awe-inspiring, as well as their desire to make a lasting impact. During the start of COVID-19, Donna was inspired by the immediate concern and response by donors as well as their trust in United Way to use their donation most effectively. She loves visiting with donors, learning their interests, sharing stories and taking them to see the impact of their gifts, which create new pathways for families and strengthen our community.

Donna’s experience as a teacher, mother, volunteer and nonprofit professional prepared her for work at United Way. She is always looking to learn new things to effectively assist donors as well as the community, which is why Donna pursues professional development. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, she has also completed a mini-MBA for nonprofit leaders through the University of St. Thomas and holds a Veritus Scholar certification as well as her CFRE designation (certified fundraising executive).

Donna and her husband, Terry, call Little Canada home. They enjoy traveling, reading, the arts, riding bikes, photography and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Donna is a past president of the Junior League of Saint Paul and active member of Fairmount Avenue United Methodist Church.

Senior Donor Advisor

Jeffrey Smith

Inspiration: “Peace is not simply the absence of conflict but the existence of justice for all people.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

What working in this community means to me: “As someone who grew up in St. Paul and has lived in Minneapolis for the better part of the last two decades, working in this community is vitally important to me. I want the Twin Cities community to be more equitable for the next generation of community members and am committed to making that happen.”

As a senior donor advisor, Jeff works with Greater Twin Cities United Way donors to show them the impact they can have in the community through their support. He finds connection between each donor’s philanthropic priorities and the work of Greater Twin Cities United Way.

Prior to joining the team at United Way, Jeff worked in various fundraising and program administration roles in the Twin Cities community, including: Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity, Common Hope, and Minnesota Public Radio. Jeff holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota.

Jeff is a past board chair at Centro Tyrone Guzman (a proud grant recipient of Greater Twin Cities United Way.) He lives with his wife, Karen, and two children in Minneapolis. They are a bilingual family and have hosted international students from various countries over the years. Jeff is an avid golfer, gardener, cross country skier, cyclist, and anything else that gets the family outdoors.

Senior Donor Advisor

Todd Western

Inspiration: “Be a part of the process that brings positive change.”— My dad, Todd P. Western II

What working in this community means to me: “It means I am involved in strengthening key aspects of my community and improving the lives of those who have been marginalized. It also means a great deal to me to be able to witness these changes as they develop.”

A passionate community advocate for more than 20 years, Todd is a donor advisor at Greater Twin Cities United Way who works on developing genuine and trustworthy relationships in order to create positive impact in our community.

Prior to joining United Way, Todd had a successful career at MoneyGram International as a relationship manager for 12 years. He managed national accounts connecting family and friends around the world by providing convenient and reliable financial services. Todd has extensive expertise in developing and growing revenue within national partnerships. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa.

Outside of work, Todd is a youth football coach for the Brooklyn Park Athletic Association and Park Center High School. He played defensive back in the Minor League Football organization and was inducted into the Minor League Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Todd is also a drummer for Wayman Church in north Minneapolis. His family has a charity foundation called the Todd Charity Organization, which produces golf tournaments and wine tastings in Iowa & Minnesota supporting college scholarships. In addition, Todd shares manager responsibilities with his two brothers on their 200-acre farm that has been in the family for over 150 years!

Director, Corporate Partnerships

Lataya Allseits

Inspiration: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” – James Baldwin

What working in this community means to me: “Working in the community is an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and learn about experiences that are different than your own. It is a chance to expand your understanding of why disproportionate circumstances exist, why they persist and ultimately improve individuals’ lives.”

Lataya builds year-round relationships with companies and foundations to support their philanthropic interests. She shares community information relevant to issue areas that a company cares about, provides resources and volunteer opportunities for employees, and keeps companies up to date on opportunities to give to emergency and long-term initiatives.

Prior to joining Greater Twin Cities United Way, Lataya was in the hospitality industry working in sales and event planning roles. In 2019, she was inducted into the Minnesota Meetings + Events magazine’s Hall of Fame as an Up-and-Coming Supplier. Before she joined the workforce, she competed in speech contests (competitive public speaking and performing) for eight years. She received her bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in sociology from Western Kentucky University.

Outside of the office, Lataya enjoys walking the chain of lakes, hiking, DIY home projects with her husband and dining out. She loves to end each day snuggled on the couch with her cat Ember and dog Coal.

Director, Innovation & Digital Fundraising

Alan Branch

Inspiration: “Lean towards the whispers of your own heart, discover the universal truth, and follow its dictates.” – John Lewis

What working in this community means to me: “I feel inspired every day by all the incredible people around me who are fiercely passionate about genuine connection and how it creates better communities – by sharing, listening and growing, together.”

Alan joined Greater Twin Cities United Way in September 2020. As Director of Innovation & Digital Fundraising, Alan leads strategy across all digital fundraising platforms and new corporate partnerships within Advancement. In addition, he fosters year-round engagement of United Way’s corporate partners and foundations. Within these partnerships he oversees their year-round giving, volunteering, and other employee engagement efforts.

Prior to joining the United Way team, Alan was a Senior Account Executive for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. While there he became heavily invested in cultivating nonprofit partnerships with the NBA and WNBA. This experience finally moved him to transition into the nonprofit space full time.

In the community, Alan volunteers with the Alzheimer Association’s Young Champions group in Minneapolis and serves at Cedar Valley Church in their youth ministry and Global Missions Council.

Senior Corporate Relationship Officer

Melissa Kadlec

Inspiration: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”— Margaret Mead

What working in this community means to me: “Community is something I’ve chosen for myself through a process of self-discovery. Being part of a community means being a part of something greater than yourself. It’s about sharing, growing and opening up to who you are and what you believe in.”

Melissa is responsible for the year-round relationship management of United Way’s top corporate partners. She oversees year-round giving, sponsorships, volunteerism and employee engagement for these companies. Melissa connects each corporate partner’s mission and passions to the important work of United Way.

She has previously worked at two nonprofits: The American Cancer Society and Duluth Sister Cities International, where she served as executive director. Prior to Melissa’s nonprofit work, she was a public and government relations manager for a national cable company.

Melissa lives in south Minneapolis with her husband, Keith. She has two young adult children, Kristina and Andrew. Melissa adores traveling and will go anywhere for an adventure! Cooking for family and friends makes her happy, too.

Senior Manager, Government & Institutional Relations

Sareen Dunleavy Keenan

Inspiration: “Bring joy to the world through disobedience.” — Travis Jones

What working in this community means to me: “I have committed to a daily practice of listening to the community I live, work, and raise my family in. I do this to ensure there is intentionality and authenticity in the work I am entrusted to carry forward and build in partnership with community. This work must fundamentally change not only what we try, but everything that we do, to create a different tomorrow. I am committed to the work of dismantling systems of oppression and supporting leaders from marginalized communities to take their place in leadership roles.”

Sareen leads the Career Academies team at Greater Twin Cities United Way. This is a restricted portfolio of work that focuses on wealth-building for individuals in the community. In a new way of working for United Way, this blend of funding and technical assistance allows partners in the portfolio to amplify the excellent work they are doing and stay focused on what is most beneficial for students and families. The work Sareen and team lead in Career Academies is focused on systems disruption, ensuring all students leave their educational experience with a family-sustaining position with opportunities to be retained and promoted.

Prior to joining United Way, Sareen led career and technical education work at MCTC. She also founded Heartwood Montessori, a nonprofit early childhood center focused on equitable access to quality childcare and livable wage jobs for employees. Sareen holds a master’s degree in educational administration and undergraduate degrees in the sciences. She has also worked for over 20 years supporting individuals with disabilities in the Twin Cities.

Sareen serves as a girl scout leader for a queer inclusive scouting troop, focused on camping and travel. She is an active advocate for queer and trans youth, both in schools and in out-of-school programming. Sareen is also a competitive broomball player, traveling internationally to represent team USA. She is a partner and proud mother of four kids, two dogs, and a bearded dragon.

Business Relationship Officer

Beni Westgor

Inspiration: “The past is in your head. The future is at your feet. The present is in your hands.” – Unknown

What working in this community means to me: “As a recent transplant coming from a relatively smaller community, it means a great deal to join a sizeable and diverse community.”

Beni builds and cultivates relationships with corporate partners and supports their Corporate Social Responsibility goals in alignment with Greater Twin Cities United Way’s mission and vision. She hopes to play a role in building a stronger, more caring community through growing our relationships with corporate partnerships, recognizing the integral role they play in strengthening communities.

Prior to joining United Way, Beni discovered the joy of community-focused work with two terms as an AmeriCorps VISTA; first at Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming and then at the Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Wisconsin. After ten years and three roles at Habitat for Humanity, a fellow Rotarian recruited her to join the resource development team at United Way Fox Cities. Although initial curiosity led her to South Dakota School of Mines and Technology as a geology/paleontology major, Beni opted for a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh.

Beni has found much joy in her new community through two volunteer roles: a WCA Foundation member, grantmaking to a diverse group of nonprofit human services organizations changing the lives of women, and as a reading tutor for second graders with Reading Partners.

Living near the city lakes keeps Beni active as a runner and helps her build her half marathon medal count. She also enjoys yoga, cross country and downhill skiing, scuba diving, reading, and travelling as much as resources allow. You can take a girl out of Wisconsin, but you can’t take the Packer fan out of the girl.

Business Relationship Officer

Traci Rutzick

Inspiration: “There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” – Amanda Gorman

What working in this community means to me: “Working in community presents me with the opportunity to talk with and learn from many individuals as well as organizations. To better understand their experiences, which may be very different from my own. From there, my hope is to be part of a collective effort to open doors for all to achieve their full potential.”

Traci joined Greater Twin Cities United Way in January 2022. As a business relationship officer, she develops year-round engagement with United Way’s corporate partners and foundations. She provides community information and resources that resonate with their areas of focus, volunteer opportunities to engage employees, as well as opportunities to provide funding to address immediate needs within the community as well as innovative initiatives to support long-term change.

Prior to joining United Way, Traci was part of the corporate affairs team at Cargill where she led the United Way workplace campaign across the U.S. and Canada for eight years as well as managed the employee engagement programs. She completed her undergraduate coursework at the University of Minnesota as well as a Mini MBA for Nonprofit Organizations at the University of St. Thomas.

Traci is an interview and resume coach with UpTurnships, where she has the wonderful opportunity to partner with college students as they prepare for internships and their roles following college. She is also a member of the Park Nicollet Foundation Board.

Outside of the office, Traci enjoys walking around the lakes, cooking, taking on new creative projects and spending time with family and friends.

Business Relationship Officer

Martha Smith

Inspiration: “The desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise.” – Maya Angelou

What working in this community means to me: “Working in community gives me the opportunity to connect with others. Coming together to listen and learn with the intention of developing opportunities that result in positive change.”

As a business relationship manager, Martha works with small to mid-size organizations in the development and implementation of their philanthropic goals. She supports year-round engagement opportunities through education, volunteerism and investment opportunities.

Prior to joining United Way, Martha managed the community relations program at Thomson Reuters and supported community engagement initiatives at Valspar and Allina Health. She currently serves on the board of the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra.

One of Martha’s favorite things to do outside of work is to spend time at the lake with her amazing family and friends… it’s truly her happy place!