United Ways of Kansas
The United Ways of Kansas Board of Directors are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jessica Dorsey as the new State Director for the United Ways of Kansas, effective Dec. 3.
Dr. Dorsey brings a wealth of leadership experience, community engagement expertise, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of Kansans.
In her new role, she will lead and strengthen the collective work of local United Ways across the state to drive collaboration, advocate at the state level, and build partnerships that expand our impact for youth opportunities, financial security, healthy communities and community resiliency for Kansans.
Lisa Gleason, current state director, will be retiring in December after 20 years of service to United Ways in Kansas.
“Jessica’s vision and passion for community-building make her the perfect fit to guide the United Ways of Kansas into the future,” said Deb Oyler, Chair of the United Ways of Kansas Board of Directors. “Her proven leadership and dedication to Kansas will help us deepen our impact and strengthen our collective voice across the state.”
Dorsey comes to the United Ways of Kansas with nearly two decades of experience at the state level. She has most recently served as the executive director of the Kansas Volunteer Commission.
In this role, she has overseen the Commission programming related to AmeriCorps national service, mentoring, volunteering, and civic engagement.
In her previous roles, she addressed graduation and high school dropout prevention as well as health inequities. Dorsey has a doctorate degree in education leadership and policy studies, a master’s degree in public health and a bachelor’s degree in biology.
She and her husband Bo live in Osage City, with their blended family of seven children. Dorsey is deeply engaged in her community, serving on the Osage City Parks and Recreation board, Osage City PTA and Osage City Band Boosters.
“I am honored to join the United Ways of Kansas and to work alongside so many passionate leaders and community partners who are committed to creating lasting change,” said Dr. Dorsey. “Together, we will continue to build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities across Kansas.”
