June 6, 2023
United Way of St. Joseph County (UWSJC) announced today that Laura Jensen, the current President &
Chief Executive Officer, will be stepping down from her position effective June 16, 2023.
During Mrs. Jensen’s tenure at United Way of St. Joseph County, the organization experienced
significant growth and success, achieving many key milestones and greater solidifying its position
as a market leader in the social services sector. Under her visionary leadership, United Way
successfully launched OneRoof St. Joe County – an initiative of UWSJC to build and run community
centers across the county. The first OneRoof location, the Southeast Neighborhood Center (SENC),
opened in August of 2022 and works with key area partners to provide wraparound services from
childcare, mental health care, a pharmacy along with emergency support as determined by
neighborhood need. OneRoof is the first of its kind in Indiana and is positioned to open three
additional sites around the county over the next five years.
“When I joined United Way in 2017, I was given the exciting challenge of transforming United Way’s
place in our community. Transformation is never easy but with the help of an amazing team and
community partners, we were able to move beyond the role of quietly funding local non-profits, to
conceptualizing and delivering an innovative placed based intervention that will have generational
impact. For 6 years we have worked to redefine how services are delivered to the most vulnerable
among us, leading to the formation of the Southeast Neighborhood Center, and evolving into OneRoof
St. Joe County. We have raised over $20 Million dollars toward community investments along with our
annual agency allocations. There have been countless celebrations and hurdles – including an
unprecedented global pandemic – all pointing toward a more resilient and connected community.
Having the opportunity to serve this community as President & CEO of United Way has been one of the
most rewarding experiences of my professional life and I look forward to cheering on the United Way
team as they continue to advance the work of equitable access for all our residents in St. Joseph
County,” says Laura.
The Board of Directors at United Way of St. Joseph County will begin the search for a new CEO
immediately and will consider both internal and external candidates. Effective immediately, Mark
Herriman, EVP, OneRoof St. Joe County will assume the role of Interim CEO and will work closely
with the executive team to ensure a seamless transition.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mrs. Jensen
for her leadership and dedication to UWSJC” said Kimberly Green Reeves, Chair of the Board. “Due to
her vision and with her guidance, the organization has achieved remarkable growth and
transformation. We wish her all the best in her new leadership opportunity. We thank her for her
dedication to United Way of St. Joseph County, the community partners, and families. We are
confident in the strength of our organization and will continue our commitment to delivering value
to our stakeholders and meeting the needs of individuals.”
Employees, donors, and community partners are assured that the organization remains fully committed
to its mission, vision, and delivering exceptional results. Mrs. Jensen’s departure will not impact
the day-to-day operations. The organization remains committed to its core values, strategic objectives,
including the OneRoof St. Joe County expansion, and providing exceptional service throughout the
county.
For all inquiries and interests about the President and CEO position please email resume@uwsjc.org.
