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.