Pictured L-R, Kennedy Valve General Manager Nate Pizinni, Event Coordinator, Dawn VanFleet, and Human Resources Director, Elliott Baker
Photo: Pictured L-R, Kennedy Valve General Manager Nate Pizinni, Event Coordinator, Dawn VanFleet, and Human Resources Director, Elliott Baker

Recently, United Way of the Southern Tier hosted its annual awards dinner to celebrate local individuals and businesses that have gone above and beyond in embodying United Way’s vision for the future. Among this year’s honorees is Kennedy Valve, presented with the United Way Give Award for generosity and commitment to improving the lives of those in the Elmira community.

Through an outpouring of contributions by team members and the company, Kennedy Valve raised an astounding $101,000 to further the United Way’s mission to fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community.

Kennedy Valve General Manager, Nate Pizzini, played a critical role in this endeavor. As a member of the local United Way Board, Nate provided a unique perspective to help educate team members about the tremendous impact the United Way makes in Elmira thanks to the generosity of others. Furthermore, he encouraged team members to consider a pledge to further the non-profit’s reach to local neighbors in need.

During the awards dinner, United Way of the Southern Tier President and CEO, Stephen Hughes, remarked, “Nate Pizzini, now serving on the Board, exemplifies what it means to be a United Way champion. From 2021 to 2022, total support for United Way from Kennedy Valve employees and the company increased 91%. Just the employee portion alone jumped 189%. Nate took the time to personally meet with every employee, and shared the story of United Way’s value, focus and impact. And those things that United Way cares about, Kennedy Valve cares about, too.”

Kennedy Valve truly exemplifies The McWane Way principle of Excellence, the value of Always Working to be Better and the behavior of Value and Add Value, and the people of Elmira are better for it.