After two decades of dedicated service, Janel Donohue, President of Rappahannock United Way (RUW), recently announced her retirement, effective June 30.
According to a press release, Donohue’s tenure with RUW has been marked by transformative leadership, community impact, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families across the Rappahannock region.
Since assuming the role of President in 2010, Donohue has been a driving force behind RUW’s mission to advance the common good by focusing on education, financial stability, and healthy living. Under her leadership, the organization has:
- Raised millions of dollars to support local nonprofits and impact the lives of thousands
- Successfully led the Virginia ALICE Project
- Increased community engagement and impact through innovative programs such as Prosper Financial Assistance, Prosper Mentoring and Prosper Students
- Forged lasting partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to address critical needs in the region.
“Janel’s passion and dedication have been instrumental in shaping Rappahannock United Way into the thriving organization it is today,” said Jean Ibanez Payne, Chair of the RUW Board of Directors. “Her visionary leadership has not only impacted countless lives but has also set a strong foundation for the organization’s future success.”
During her tenure, Donohue has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the community, earning accolades such as the Laurie A. Wideman Enterprising Woman’s Award, University of Mary Washington and the Leadership Colloquium’s Patricia Lacey Metzger Award, Fredericksburg Host Lions Club Lion of the Year Award, Leadership Fredericksburg Leadership Impact Award, Girl Scouts Women of Distinction Award in Human Relations, and Stafford Regions Most Influential Women’s Award.
“It has been an honor to work alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals, nonprofits and organizations,” Donohue said in the release. “Together, we have achieved so much, and I am confident that RUW will continue to make a profound impact for years to come.”
The RUW Board of Directors will launch a comprehensive search for Donohue’s successor.
