ROCHESTER, NY – United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes proudly announces the appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors: Christopher Aebli, Ted Jordan, Dr. Shaun Nelms, and Lauren Gallina Payne.
“Our Board is made up of some of the most dedicated and accomplished leaders in our region,” said Jaime Saunders, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. “Their diverse talents, expertise, and unwavering commitment to our local communities are crucial in helping us advance our mission. We are honored to have their leadership as we continue to drive positive change."
Christopher Aebli, President of the Tactical Communications sector for L3Harris Technologies
Chris brings extensive leadership experience from L3Harris, a longstanding United Way workplace partner. Chris has been incredibly involved in supporting United Way initiatives through workplace campaigns, kit building, and employee engagement activities.
With a strong background in tactical and airborne radios, SATCOM terminals, and C4ISR systems, as well as expertise in business strategy and global operations, Chris offers valuable insight to the United Way Board. He holds a BSEE from the University at Buffalo, an MSEE from the University of Connecticut, and a Certificate of Management from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.
Ted Jordan, Vice President and General Manager - HCM Micro Market at Paychex
Ted brings over 25 years of leadership experience in human capital management, insurance, and financial services. Ted has been a dedicated United Way community leader, serving as Chair of the Tocqueville Society and a member of the Tocqueville Cabinet. He also previously led the Paychex campaign for United Way as Executive Chair. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ted holds an MBA from Temple University and a BA from the University of Pittsburgh.
Dr. Shaun Nelms, Vice President for Community Partnerships and Special Advisor to the President at the University of Rochester
Dr. Shaun Nelms plays a key role in advancing United Way’s mission through his leadership at the University of Rochester, a longstanding workplace partner of United Way. As Special Advisor to Women United member and UR President Sarah Mangelsdorf, Dr. Nelms actively supports United Way initiatives aimed at community development and education.
Renowned for his transformation of East Upper and Lower Schools, where he raised graduation rates from 29% to 85%, Dr. Nelms brings his expertise in leadership and community engagement to United Way’s efforts to drive meaningful change. He also serves as the William and Sheila Konar Director for the Center for Urban Education Success and holds an Ed.D. and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Rochester.
Lauren Gallina Payne, Marketing Director at Gallina Development Corp.
Lauren Gallina Payne has been deeply involved in advancing United Way's mission through her roles as Co-Chair of Women United and former Campaign Chair at United Way. In her professional role as Marketing Director at Gallina Development Corp, Lauren brings valuable marketing and public relations expertise to support the company’s real estate portfolio, with a particular focus on downtown development. She earned an MBA from the University of Rochester-Simon Business School and a BA in Communications from Loyola University Maryland.