Join Young Erie Professionals for a Seat at the Table with Laurie B. Root, President of the United Way of Erie County. Attendees will have the opportunity to have an intimate conversation with Laurie over lunch, learn from her experiences, and hear how the United Way is impacting the future of Erie by combatting poverty. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the United Way's new offices within the new Erie Center for Arts and Technology (ECAT) in the former Wayne Elementary School. This event is free for YEP Forward Members and $10 for Social Members and Guests. Space is limited to the first 20 registrations.
ABOUT LAURIE B. ROOT:
Laurie is what she refers to as a "boomerang-er." Born and raised in Erie, Laurie attended Mercyhurst Prep before going to Virginia to attend Hollins College. After graduating from Hollins, Laurie moved to the metro DC area to initially work for Senator John Heinz. Laurie remained in the DC area for the next 30 years, but moved back to Erie, thus the "boomerang-er" reference.
Prior to returning to Erie, Laurie held several positions as she developed her career. Her work has taken her across the globe, from DC to Seoul, South Korea, to Brussels, Belgium. She has worked in politics, broadcasting, and managing associations. Along the way, she has taught English, established an executive education program in partnership with Harvard University, and was selected by the US Chamber of Commerce to represent the US at the Europiean Economic Community in Brussels.
In 2010, Laurie accepted a position at United Way of Erie County as Vice President of Major Gifts and Planned Giving. She also was VP, Investor Relations before assuming the role of Senior Vice President in 2014. Most recently, Laurie accepted the position of President. During her tenure with United Way, Laurie has been a strong advocate of changing the focus and mission of the organization from the traditional pass-through fundraiser to a social impact organization focused on breaking the cycle of poverty in Erie County.
Moving forward, Laurie believes that United Way's work is a critical component of the overall economic development eco-system for Erie County, with the investment and focus on the human capital component up-stream that will feed directly into the downstream investments in the community
