News

April 1, 2025:

United Way of the Southern Tier is excited to announce the appointment of Maleaha R. Smith as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Smith is the first woman to lead the organization, which has been serving Chemung and Steuben counties since 1993. United Way of the Southern Tier provides financial and organizational support to local programs that aid children, seniors, and individuals facing crises or natural disasters.

Smith, who joined United Way in 2015, has served as the organization’s president since January. Her leadership roles in United Way have spanned operations, data analysis, and marketing.

“I am truly honored to lead United Way of the Southern Tier as we collaborate with our community partners to build pathways for individuals and families to succeed,” said Smith. “Together, we will continue to tackle the most urgent needs in our communities and work toward a brighter and more promising future for all.”

With a background in business and nonprofit management, Smith has spent years honing her skills in business development, marketing, and strategic planning within the local nonprofit sector.

“Maleaha’s dedication, expertise, and vision make her an outstanding choice to lead United Way,” said David Walker, Board Chair of United Way of the Southern Tier. “We are excited to collaborate with her and her team to continue making a positive impact across our region.”

United Way of the Southern Tier is the local affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that provides free books every month to children under age 5 in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, and Yates counties.

United Way also helps connect residents with volunteer opportunities throughout the year, including quarterly donation drives and a community-wide Day of Action, a single day on which hundreds of volunteers are engaged with service projects throughout the region.

Smith succeeds Stephen M. Hughes, who retired last month after nearly 17 years of dedicated service to United Way of the Southern Tier, including almost 11 years as CEO and six years as vice president of resource development. Smith resides in Steuben County with her husband and three children.

For more information, please contact United Way Director of Donor Experience Lois Wilson by email or at 607-377-5834.