Staff Spotlight: Diana Nielander
This week on Familiar Faces Friday, we are introducing Diana Nielander. Diana is our Affinity Group Manager, who works in depth with Women United (formerly Women’s Leadership Council). Learn more about Diana and her work at United Way of Lake County (UWLC) by reading below!
When did you start working at United Way of Lake County?
About 3.5 years ago.
What is your title and role?
Affinity Group Manager. I initially had the privilege of re-invigorating Women United and now continue to help it grow and thrive.
What made you want to be a part of this organization?
Before I officially worked with UWLC, they helped create a wonderful service project with my kids. I was really impressed with the time and attention they offered to help make it meaningful and helpful to the community.
Then I learned more about the necessary and measurable work they spearheaded in Lake County. It met one of my goals — to work and live in Lake County for the first time in my life — and once I met Kristi and the other amazing and talented people I knew this would be a good place for me to invest my time and energy.
Which of United Way’s programs do you connect to most and why?
Over the course of my career, I have always worked to help vulnerable kids get access to early intervention services. I know getting to children as early as possible make the greatest impact so I connect, first and foremost, with their Success by 6 early childhood initiative. And it is why I love that Women United focuses its funding and time in this space as well.
What is your favorite part of your job here?
I get to meet and work with the most amazing women! Women United is made up of more than 90 women, who are genuine, smart, and giving. Getting to know them, helping to mobilize their talent and resources, and moving our collective efforts forward is the best!
When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?
When I am not hanging out with my three children (22, 18 and 18) and my husband, I like to read, garden, visit the Chicago Botanical Gardens, play Yahtzee with Buddies and this year, I am looking forward to learning to throw pottery.
Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.
