The Valley United Way announced Michael Marcinek, Chief Financial Officer of Fletcher Thompson, to chair the Board of Directors at the 40^th annual awards dinner.  Marcinek previously held the position of community fund raising campaign director for a longer duration than anyone in the Valley United Way’s history in addition to serving as a chair on the finance committee.   

A native of Seymour, Marcinek has a keen understanding of the importance of giving back to the community and has spent hundreds of hours volunteering his time.  He is a board member for Junior Achievement of Western Connecticut County, The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, The Shelton Economic Development Corporation, and The Dan Orlovsky foundation. 

Accepting the challenge from former chairperson Ruth Parkins, Marcinek said, “We all live or work in this community and share a common vision of what our community is and can be. Great communities happen because people care enough about those communities to be involved and take leadership roles.”

Although Parkins will be stepping down from her position of seven years she will continue to serve on the board for an additional year to ensure that transitional operations run smoothly.  “Mike’s dedication to the Valley United Way and its mission is a tremendous asset to the organization,” Parkins said.  “His leadership of the campaign cabinet over the past few years has been a major strength behind the success in meeting goals and his renewed commitment will provide the level of energy and continuity that is essential for continued growth.”

Jack Walsh, President & Chief Operating Officer of the Valley United Way also expressed his confidence in the decision.  “We couldn’t be more pleased that Mike, with his proven track record of leadership and success, has agreed to chair the board."

Click on video to hear Mike's remarks at the Annual Meeting

Click on video to hear Ruth Parkins' remarks at the Annual Meeting