United Way of Rhode Island has named a new chair of its Board of Directors, appointing Cranston resident Paola Fernandez to the volunteer leadership position.

Fernandez is SVP, Community Development Officer for Centreville Bank and succeeds Dolph Johnson, retired EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer of Hasbro, Inc., who recently completed his three-year term as chair.

Paola has a long history of involvement with Rhode Island’s nonprofit sector and a deep commitment to creating opportunities for all, and especially for individuals and families from communities of color. In her current role, she is responsible for developing and leading Centreville Bank’s community development program, which serves Rhode Island and nearby eastern Connecticut. Prior to joining the banking industry, Paola spent more than 16 years at United Way as its Director of Public Policy and Research, and oversaw grant allocations in the focus areas of housing and homelessness.

“This is a full circle moment for Paola, and we are thrilled to have her lead our board, where her unwavering dedication to addressing the needs of Rhode Islanders will no doubt advance our lifechanging work,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “But for as skilled as she is a professional, Paola is an even better person and leader who uses her own life experiences and love for our community to lift up others.”

With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit, government relations, and finance, Paola is known for her collaborative and inclusive approach to developing community initiatives that center on social issues. In addition to her community development priorities, she represented Centreville Bank in the creation and implementation of Bank Forward. The new initiative empowers low- and moderate-income Rhode Islanders to pursue and then advance in a career in banking through focusing on community partnerships, financial literacy, and workforce development.

“To be appointed chair of the board of directors for United Way of Rhode Island is an incredible honor – having previously worked within the organization, it is deeply humbling and one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Paola Fernandez, SVP, Community Development Officer, Centreville Bank. “I’m excited to work with the board and alongside a team that’s so passionate and committed to making a positive impact in our community.”

Along with chairing the United Way of Rhode Island Board of Directors, Paola recently served as a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Nonprofit Practice, is a member of the Champlin Foundation Distribution Committee, and sits on the boards of the Economic Progress Institute and the Rhode Island Grantmakers Council.