Sabeen Perwaiz named chairwoman of area United Way board of directors

Nonprofit leader Sabeen Perwaiz has been named chairwoman of the United Way of Northeast Florida board of directors for a two-year term.

Perwaiz, president and CEO of the Jacksonville-based Florida Nonprofit Alliance, succeeds former Florida Blue executive Darnell Smith.

"As we mark one year of our strategic plan, United Way has a clear vision for the future and a strong foundation to build on," she said. "I look forward to working alongside the rest of the board, staff and community partners to advance this work, strengthen our community and create more opportunities for families across Northeast Florida."

The current strategic plan's goals are to "increase upward mobility, access to essential services and community well-being for all," according

to the nonprofit.

“We’re grateful for Sabeen’s leadership," President and CEO Melanie Patz said. “She brings a deep commitment to our community and a strong belief in what’s possible when we unite around a shared vision."

Beth Reese Cravey has been a reporter for The Florida Times-Union for 45 years, currently specializing in nonprofits and health. She can be reached at [e-mail].

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Sabeen Perwaiz named chairwoman of area United Way board of directors