Oneida & Herkimer County, NY-
United Way of the Mohawk Valley announced that two community members have been appointed to its Board of Directors.
The two new members are Bruce Hairston and Marc Butler.
“Our Board of Directors are residents of our region who are committed to building a stronger community,” said Erin Gutierrez Matt, United Way Executive Director. “Each plays a role, bringing a different perspective and area of expertise to our work. We are excited to welcome two new Directors to join us in our mission to ensure our community thrives.”
Bruce Hairston has worked for the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley for 15 years. During that time, he has held various roles, such as Community Relations Director, VP of Program Services, and currently Branch Director at the Rome YMCA. Prior to that, he was a Business Agent and Trustee for Teamsters Local 182 out of Utica. Bruce has served on various committees over the years and has a passion for mentoring youth.
“Life is a balance of holding on and letting go. The community’s challenges and needs are always changing. They are not the same as they were 100 years, 10 years, or even 1 year ago,” said Bruce Hairston, new United Way MV Board Member. “United Way of the Mohawk Valley helps identify the current most pressing needs of our community. As a board member, I hope to help bring our region together as we work to overcome the challenges of today.”
Former Assemblyman Marc Butler represented several counties in the Mohawk Valley and Central New York during his 23-year career in the New York State Assembly. Prior to that, he was a reporter for the Utica Observer-Dispatch/Daily Press and a Corporate Communications Specialist with the Utica National Insurance Group. He lives in Newport with his wife, Susan.
Butler states, "The needs in our region are great, and I look forward to continuing my service to the community as a member of United Way MV’s Board of Directors."
Along with two new board members comes a new slate of officers for United Way MV’s Board of Directors. Outgoing president William Perrotti remains on United Way’s Board, as new President Matthew Nicholl takes over the role.
“It is a very exciting time at United Way of the Mohawk Valley for me to take over the board president role as the organization prepares to celebrate its 100th Anniversary,” stated United Way MV’s new Board President, Matthew Nicholl. “This organization’s ability to continue to create positive momentum despite COVID-19 really showcases our value and role in this community. I’m looking forward to working more closely with this amazing team to further United Way’s mission and our region.”
Matthew Nicholl works for Berkshire Bank as Vice President, Business Banking. He joined United Way’s Board in 2014 after serving on their Community Engagement and Events Committee for several years. He most recently served as Chair of United Way’s Events Committee and Vice President of United Way’s Board.
Tiffany Stefanski, the Regional Director of Middle-Market Underwriting at The Hartford, is the new Vice President of United Way’s Board. She joined the United Way Board of Directors in 2017, after also serving on the Events Committee. She will now also Chair the Events Committee along with her new role as Vice President.
