Former Shelton mayor named president of Valley United Way

The board of directors for the Shelton-based Valley United Way (VUW) has named Michael E. Pacowta as president and chief professional officer. He succeeds Interim President and Chief Executive Officer David Kennedy, who retired on Jan. 9.

VUW covers Shelton, Ansonia, Derby, Oxford and Seymour. Pacowta joins VUW from TheWorkplace Inc., where he was an employment specialist. He served as mayor of Shelton from 1985 to 1991 and held the presidency role at the Greater Waterbury Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce.

“The board of directors is thrilled that Mike will lead VUW. He will focus on building fundraising momentum to strengthen our partner agency”™s impact within the community,” said board chairwoman, Karen Stockla. “Mike first joined as area director in August 2022 and has consistently displayed the qualifications and expertise needed to drive the organization towards providing lasting change for the Valley.”