Meet Our Team

For more than 20 years, Jim Murphy has led mission-driven organizations through moments that define them—periods of growth, transition, and system-level change across housing, healthcare, finance, and education.

He’s helped launch health centers from concept to essential community resources, developed affordable housing for first-time homeownership, and strengthened educational environments.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties and continue the impact the organization has on the communities and people they serve”, says Jim.

Throughout her career, Megan has worked across a variety of industries, building strategic relationships, and connecting organizations with the communities they serve.

In her role with the United Way Long-Term Recovery Group, Megan brings a collaborative, team-focused approach grounded in strong communication, thoughtful leadership, and a genuine passion for helping others.

Outside of her professional work, Megan enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband. Being part of a first responder’s family has given her a meaningful appreciation for service and resilience, complementing her commitment to supporting communities through disaster recovery.

Gail is a dedicated aging services professional with over 20 years of experience managing complex programs and initiatives for diverse populations. Throughout her career, Gail has a proven track record of fostering collaborative environments to achieve community goals. Her extensive background includes directing daily operations for large older adult centers and managing significant program budgets. Gail holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a concentration in Gerontology and brings both technical expertise and cultural sensitivity to her advocacy for underserved communities.

Victoria is a native Texan who has resided in Florida for more than 30 years. She is a devoted wife, mother of two and a proud citizen of Lake County.

She has more than 20 years of experience in small-business financial management with a strong initiative to be engaged in her community. Victoria found that United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties was the perfect fit for her skill set to be utilized for the service of our residents.

Kathy Gazda is an EMMY award-winning veteran of the TV News and video production.

She is a passionate video storyteller who loves to search for the most unique and powerful aspects of any important subject and present them in a way that motivates viewers and readers to get involved.

Kathy is an Upstate New York native, attending Syracuse University and starting her TV news career as a reporter in Albany, From there she held various reporting, producing and executive roles in TV stations throughout New York and New England before relocating to South FL.

Kathy transitioned to a Marketing and Communications Director position where she honed her skills in digital media. She LinkedIn/Google certifications in content creation and analytics.

Kathy says “At this stage in my life, my goal is to use the skills I have developed throughout my career to become an agent for positive change in my community. I have been blessed and it is important for me to be a blessing.”

When she’s not working you will find Kathy on the golf course, at the gym, watching a Ken Burns documentary on PBS or volunteering in the kids and homeless outreach ministries at her church.

Thawanna has dedicated 21 years to Early Childhood Education, initially working in the Department of Corrections before discovering her passion for child development while volunteering at Head Start. She transitioned to a full-time role in 2000 and has since served as the Director of Little Buffalo in the Villages. As a proud mother and grandmother, she believes in creating safe, supportive environments for all children to learn and grow. Thawanna holds certifications in Child Development and Florida Daycare Directors Credentials, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies. She is committed to empowering teachers and believes in the transformative power of education.

Quotes: “There is Nothing as Powerful as a Changed Mind.”