It is with mixed emotions that Valley United Way announces the retirement of John J. Walsh “Jack”, President & C.O.O.
Jack has served as President for the organization for 27 years, beginning his career with them in 1989. Jack, a life-long resident of Derby, is committed and passionate about making the Valley a better place to live and work. He will be retiring at the end of November.
During his leadership, Jack helped Valley United Way create many successful programs to strengthen collaboration and build resources including the Youth Leadership Program, Volunteer Center, Valley Council for Health and Human Services and Leadership Greater Valley.
In addition, he was instrumental in the creation and execution of the Corporate Cup, a collaborative event with Griffin Hospital,
Valley YMCA and Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce to improve health and wellness for Valley employees through a series of fun, competitive events. He was also one of the leaders of the group that earned the Valley the All America City Award in 2000.
During his time at Valley United Way, Jack was the longest serving Chair of the Chief Professional Officers Council for United Way of Connecticut and is a past member of their Board of Directors. Jack also serves on many community committees including the Derby Greenway Committee, Electronic Valley Project, Derby Neck Library, Derby/Shelton Rotary and Derby Historical Society, just to name a few.
Prior to his time at Valley United Way, Jack was a teacher in both Shelton and Derby, head coach of the Shelton High Schools Boys Basketball team, and Director of the Recreation Camp in Derby, one of Valley United Way’s funded partners.
Jack’s efforts and dedication to the Valley certainly do not go unnoticed. He is a past recipient of the Great Valley Chamber of Commerce Gold Seal Award, Valley Council’s Lewis Savitsky Staff Excellence Award, Derby Historical Society’s Dr. John I. Howe Award, Parent Child Resource Center’s Outstanding Service to Children and Families Award, YMCA’s Strong Community Builder Award, Spirit of St. Mary St. Michael School Award and Griffin Hospital’s Caring Heart Award. In addition, Jack was named to the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Alumni Association Hall of Fame.
Jennifer Bull, Valley United Way Board Chair, is currently working with a committee to create the job posting that is expected to be made public mid-June.
The open position will be available on the United Way World Wide website. Interested applicants can wait for the posting or contact Jen directly at (203) 929‑3535.
