Denise A. Seachrist, Ph.D.

Your role on the board:  

- 1st Vice Chair, Board of Directors Executive and Finance Committees  

- Chair, Nominating Committee 

Tell us a bit about your background: I have worked in higher education for over 35 years. 

What do you/did you do for work? I am the Dean and CAO at Kent State University at Stark. 

How did you come to join the United Way board? How long have you been on the board? Shortly after accepting my position at KSU Stark, I was invited to join the United Way Board.  I have served on the board since March of 2018. 

Briefly explain your work on the board: My primary responsibility as a board member is to advocate for the mission and vision of the United Way, as well as to support the leadership of the organization and assist in reaching its fundraising goals. 

Describe your involvement with United Way prior to joining the board: Wherever I have lived, I have been a donor to the local United Way in my community. 

What community partners or volunteer programs are you most passionate about supporting? Why is United Way’s work important to you? Please explain. I am passionate about supporting the American Heart Association’ Stark County Heart Walk, the Canton Symphony, the Players Guild Theatre, ArtsinStark, TomTod Ideas and Women’s Impact. United Way’s mission “to improve the quality of life in our communities by leading in the development of solutions to critical social issues in the areas of health, education, and financial stability” is vitally important to me. 

If you could share any piece of advice with the children of Stark County, what would it be? The piece of advice I would share with the children of Stark County is to always find a reason to be grateful. No matter what difficulties one encounters in life, there is always a reason to be grateful and to help others as others have helped you. 

What do you like to do in your down time? In my down time, I enjoy singing, reading, golfing and running.  My greatest joy is spending time with my friends and family, especially my three young grandchildren.   

Is there anything else you would like us to include in your bio? Stark County is a wonderful place to live. We need to treasure all that it has to offer as we collectively strive to make it better for generations to come.