Peterborough, ON – June 18th, 2026 – At a press conference in its downtown Peterborough office, United Way Peterborough & District announced a major leadership transition. As Jim Russell, the organization’s longest-serving Chief Executive Officer, prepares to retire after nearly 15 years of service, the Board has selected his successor.
Russell’s leadership has been instrumental in strengthening United Way Peterborough & District’s role in the community. Throughout his tenure, he guided the organization through growth and change, built strong community partnerships, and helped position it for continued success. His retirement marks the close of an important chapter, and the Board of Directors and staff extend their sincere gratitude for his leadership, commitment, and lasting contributions.
“Serving this community through United Way Peterborough & District has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Russell. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together alongside our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters. As I prepare for retirement, I do so with deep confidence in the future of this organization. United Way’s best days are still ahead.”
“Jim’s dedication and leadership have positioned United Way Peterborough & District for continued success and a smooth transition as he enters his well-earned retirement,” said Karen Wilson, Chair of the organization’s Board of Directors. “After a careful and deliberate selection process, the Board is proud to make this announcement to our community.”
On behalf of the Board of Directors, United Way Peterborough & District is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Seguya as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective July 6th, 2026.
Seguya joins United Way Peterborough & District with experience leading mission-driven organizations through growth, change, and transformation. He brings a strong background in organizational leadership, governance, human resources, communications, and community engagement, with a focus on building inclusive, sustainable, people-centred organizations.
In previous roles, including as Executive Director of The Fulcrum Publishing Society and Ontario Student Voices, Seguya has worked closely with staff, boards, volunteers, funders, and community partners to strengthen organizational systems and advance mission-driven work. His leadership style is grounded in collaboration, accountability, transparency, and care, with a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and community impact.
“I am deeply honoured to be joining United Way Peterborough & District and to have the opportunity to build on the incredible legacy of leadership, service, and community impact that Jim and the team have advanced,” said Seguya. “I believe the strength of any sustainable, long-standing organization lies in its people, and United Way Peterborough & District’s impact has continuously been made possible by the dedication of its staff, board, volunteers, donors, partners, and community members who have brought this mission to life every day. I look forward to working alongside them, with dedication and care as we share this journey ahead.”
The Board of Directors emphasized that this transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity and stability. United Way Peterborough & District’s mission and values remain at the centre of its work, and this transition strengthens the organization’s ability to expand its impact and support the community partners it works alongside.
“This next chapter builds on a strong foundation and an 85-year legacy, which is not something to be taken lightly” added Wilson. “The Board of Directors is confident that Jason’s leadership will support continued growth, deepen long-standing partnerships, and create new opportunities for innovation and collaboration across the communities that we are proud to serve.”
Seguya will work closely with staff, volunteers, community partners, and donors as he steps into the role in early July, with a focus on strengthening community impact and advancing United Way’s long-standing leadership in local social change.
United Way Peterborough & District thanks Jim Russell for his exceptional service and welcomes Jason Seguya as the organization looks ahead to its 85th year of building community across Peterborough & County.
