United Way Elects New Directors at Annual Meeting

United Way of Southeastern Connecticut elected seven new directors to its Board of Directors at the organization’s Annual Meeting held on Friday, March 22, 2013. Keith Fontaine, Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at The William W. Backus Hospital, was elected to serve as Board Chair for a two-year term. Melodie Peters, President of the AFT Connecticut, was elected as Vice Chair of the Board for the same term.

 “It’s a time of great promise for our United Way,” Fontaine noted. “With an established network of strong partners throughout the region and our existing programs to address hunger and housing, United Way is well positioned to provide leadership and support in these challenging times.”

Those elected to serve on United Way’s Board of Directors are:

• Ken Ewell, Zachry Nuclear Engineering;
• Steve Goetchius, Three Rivers Community College;
• William Hendersen, Communications workers of America Local 1598;
• William Louis, MDA-UAW Local 571;
• Robert Nardone, General Dynamics Electric Boat;
• Marie-Claire Peakman, Pfizer Inc; and
• Reverend William Wilson, Walls Temple A.M.E. Zion Church.

In addition to those elected, Reona Dyess from The Center: A Drop-In Community Learning & Resource Center, was appointed to serve on the Board of Directors as a representative from the United Way Council of Agency Executives. The Center is a United Way partner program.

United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s Board of Directors comprises local volunteers and business leaders. The Board provides guidance, direction, and oversight to United Way activities including ensuring that the highest standards of financial accountability, responsibility, and transparency are upheld.

United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is advancing the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all, focusing on helping children to thrive, providing for basic human needs, and promoting independence and community wellness. United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is a locally-based organization serving the towns of New London County.