Honoring Service And Welcoming New Voices On The United Way NEXT Board

At United Way NEXT, our strength has always come from the people who step forward to lead with purpose, generosity, and heart. As we move into a new chapter, we’re proud to honor the leaders who have completed their board service, celebrate those continuing their commitment, and welcome new voices to help guide our work in the years ahead!

2026 Board Chair Ann Fox and 2025 Board Chair Paul DeBassio at the UW NEXT Board Retreat.

A Meaningful Leadership Transition

After a year of experiences, we extend our sincere thanks to Paul DeBassio for his thoughtful leadership as Board Chair. His steady guidance strengthened our board and helped elevate United Way NEXT across the network. We’re grateful that Paul will continue to lend his insight and leadership as Immediate Past Chair on our Executive Committee.

We’re also excited to welcome Ann Fox into her new role as Board Chair. Her energy, vision, and experience will help lead our board forward in a year of transformation! Paired with Kiran Handa Gaudioso stepping into the role of Chair Elect and Paula Gilberto joining as Secretary, our new Officer Slate will help ensure a strong, connected, and forward-thinking board.

With Gratitude for Their Service

We’d also like to take a moment to thank our 2025 Immediate Past Chair, Ed Rivera, former Secretary, Kerri Strauss, and our exiting board members for all of their time, leadership, and dedication to United Way NEXT. Deborah Bayle, Keith Barsuhn, and Rob Reifsnyder each brought valuable perspective and care to their service, and we are deeply grateful for the impact they’ve made on our community.

Continuing Their Commitment

Special thanks to the board members who have recommitted to continued service. Ann Fox and DJ Hampton II have each been re-elected for their second term & Darlene Slaughter was re-elected to begin her first three-year term following a one-year appointment. DJ has also agreed to remain Treasurer on the Executive Committee, providing trusted financial leadership and stewardship as we plan for what’s NEXT.

Jason Daniels, Edwin Goutier, Brian Hassett, Jessica Muroff, and Jessica Safransky Schacht.

Welcoming New Voices

This year, our Nominating Committee selected five new candidates to join the United Way NEXT Board in 2026. Covering all three member segments (UW staff, alumni, and retirees), each will bring fresh perspectives, experience, and energy to our work. We look forward to working with Jason Daniels, Edwin Goutier, Brian Hassett, Jessica Muroff, and Jessica Safransky Schacht over the NEXT three years!

Looking Ahead Together

To everyone who has served, is continuing their service, or is just beginning their board journey, thank you. Your time, leadership, and commitment help shape the future of United Way NEXT and strengthen our connection to the greater United Way network.

To learn more about each of our Board members, we encourage you to check out their bios on our Board of Directors page 💙