Kelly Jasen

President & CEO, United Way Emerald Coast

Kelly Jasen is the first female president and CEO of United Way Emerald Coast, stepping into the role in 2019. With nearly 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she has guided the organization through significant community challenges and growth, including increased collaboration across agencies and expanded support for families in need. She serves on several regional boards and leadership committees and is an Honorary Commander at Eglin Air Force Base. Jasen has been recognized as Scarlett magazine’s 2025 Woman of the Year – Non-Profit Director, a United Way 40 Under 40 honoree, and an InWeekly Rising Star. She holds a degree from the University of Central Florida and enjoys time with her two mini-Australian shepherds, Laila and Linus.

Describe a defining moment or achievement in your career.

Just a few months after stepping into my current role as president and CEO of United Way Emerald Coast, COVID-19 hit, forcing us to reassess how we show up, how we serve, and what people truly need from us. That challenge sparked innovation and collaboration, helping us sharpen our mission and emerge more focused and resilient than ever.

How do you define success? 

Professionally, I define success by seeing collaborations form, partnerships thrive, and lives transformed. Personally, it’s knowing I’ve done my part to make our little corner of the world a bit brighter than I found it … even if it’s just one neighbor at a time.

What motivates you? 

What motivates me most are the “aha” moments, watching my team and community leaders discover new ways to make an impact. And there’s nothing better than running into someone around town who shares how United Way has changed their life.

Tell us about a time when you were met with a crossroads decision. How did you face that? 

A crossroads moment was deciding whether to step into my current role. I was happy in my prior position, and I wasn’t actively looking for change. However, this opportunity offered the chance to advance my career, lead strategic transformation, and be closer to family. After weighing the options, it quickly became a no-brainer.

What advice do you have for young women pursuing their careers? 
Take care of yourself, honor your own path, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Fully embrace who you are; your authentic self is what the community truly needs.