Beyond the Title is a series of Q&As with alumni of Madison365’s Most Influential lists. 

Renee Moe (Wisconsin’s Most Influential Asian American Leaders, 2020) is President and CEO of United Way of Dane County, a leader in the worldwide United Way network and across the nonprofit sector. Charity Navigator recently recognized United Way of Dane County in the top three percent of U.S. nonprofits. A military kid who grew up on the three continents, Renee has a JBA in Journalism and Mandarin Chinese, and an MBA from UW-Madison. She has been recognized with the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, Wisconsin Women of Color Network Power of Unity Award, Brava Woman 2 Watch, UW Business School 8 Under 40, and served as President of Downtown Rotary.

What does presence before performance mean to you – and how do you stay grounded when the pressure to perform is high? 

Presence means noticing, authenticity and always doing your best to enable the best outcomes. I stay grounded through community listening and data, a clear strategy that responds and commitment to values. A top-notch team, supportive family and Taekwondo training help, too! Performance means getting results and making progress toward community goals, and that doesn’t happen without presence and the ability to stay grounded.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor? 

Family first, work second, everything else is a bonus.

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – United Way of Dane County celebrated the community on Wednesday and thanked those who make its mission possible.

People from businesses and neighborhoods came together at the Monona Terrace for the celebration. The event served as a way for United Way of Dane County to thank people for their generosity and volunteerism.

“It’s so inspiring,” said President and CEO of United Way of Dane County Renee Moe. “To really inspire that spirit of being a neighbor is so heartwarming.”

Moe emphasized the importance of people stepping up and volunteering.

“They’re stepping into community leadership, and that’s what it takes to make the right changes,” said Moe. “So, we’re incredibly grateful, so inspired, and that’s what it means to be the power of caring and working for all.”

Kim Sponem, the United Way Campaign Chair, said the organization is excited to celebrate where the campaign currently stands.

“We are at $9.5 million of our $17.5 million goal,” said Sponem. “That goal represents is helping thousands in our community, with a hand up, helping hand when things get rough in life.”

If you would like to donate to the campaign, click here.

MADISON (WKOW) — United Way of Dane County celebrated its community partners at an annual luncheon, with hosting help from 27 news Evening Anchors Brandon Taylor and Amber Noggle.

Renee Moe, United Way of Dane County president and CEO, expressed gratitude for the support United Way has received.

“Today is all about the hundreds of people who volunteer their time, their energy, the businesses who allow their employees to give, and every resident who contributes to making our community strong,” Moe said.