We are thrilled to announce that Laura Kaiser, Chief Corporate and Donor Relations Officer at Valley of the Sun United Way, has been named a Community Champion of Change Award recipient by the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management. Laura was honored as part of recognizing leaders and changemakers who are making a powerful difference in their communities through purpose-driven leadership and impact.
A proud University of Arizona alumna, Laura’s recognition reflects her unwavering commitment to strengthening our community. Since joining Valley of the Sun United Way in 2008, Laura has helped shape the organization’s corporate engagement strategy – driving employee giving, corporate gifts, and donor partnerships. Her leadership has been instrumental in growing corporate campaigns rooted in social responsibility and community impact.
Laura was joined at the celebration by her guest, Vanecia Kerr, President and CEO of United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona. Also present was Arika Wells, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of United Way of Tucson, who also received a Community Champion award. This collaborative spirit between Arizona United Ways aligns perfectly with Laura’s work and leadership style – one that is rooted in generosity, growth, and connection.
Laura was nominated for the award by Julie Trujillo, who serves as a longtime Loaned Executive for Valley of the Sun United Way.
“It’s an absolute honor to be recognized by my alma mater,” Laura said. “To be nominated by Julie Trujillo, my former advisor at UofA who I now have the privilege of working alongside at United Way, it truly feels full circle. This offered a moment to reflect on the many people who have inspired me through their example and mentorship.”
Laura and Julie now collaborate closely together at Valley of the Sun United Way on several initiatives, such as Women United.
“I nominated Laura because I have known her since her time as a student in the Eller College,” Julie said. “I have seen how well she represents United Way in the community with integrity, and commitment. I have admired her leadership and passion for advancing our strategic goals – she has dedicated her entire career to uplifting others and strengthening the Arizona community.”
We extend our sincere thanks to the University of Arizona Eller College of Management for recognizing our leadership and for celebrating our work to serve as a safety net, strengthen partnerships, and create bold, lasting solutions.
For more information about our leadership, visit https://vsuw.org/about-us/leadership/.
