Kylee Pusteoska recently joined our Resource Development team as the new Senior Manager of Annual Giving & Engagement. Learn more about what she likes to do in her free time, who inspires her, and why she wanted to work with United Way!

Tell us about where you’re from, where you grew up, etc.

I grew up in Traer, Iowa and am a proud graduate of Coe College. I taught high school for ten years and got my master’s degree from UNI. After teaching, I worked in development at Coe and most recently, Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center. My free time is currently spent in the bleachers watching my son play football, basketball, and baseball.

What would you say is your motto or a quote you like to live by?

“And when the wind did not blow her way, she adjusted her sails.”

This quote (or something like this quote) has been attributed to several sources but I love the meaning behind it. Life is always going to throw stuff at us, but we have to be prepared to change course and make the best of every situation.

Why did you want to work for United Way?

I am passionate about helping people. My role allows me to raise funds for those in our area who need assistance, as well as working with those in the community who want to help. It is so cool to be in the middle and be that connecting piece.

Who inspires you and why?

I come from a family of teachers and coaches and I am most inspired by them. I am so proud of their hard work and how they pour into the lives of the young people they work with.

Where is your favorite place in the world?

When the world gets too people-ly for me, there is no better place during a rain or snowstorm than snuggled up under a soft blanket with my dogs (Oscar and Maverick), a good book, a fire in the fireplace, and a mug of vanilla chai latte in my cozy living room.

What’s your all-time favorite movie or what show(s) are you currently watching?

Hopefully, my mom won’t read this because she thinks I watch too much TV. I am currently loving Yellowstone. It is dark and twisty, but I also love A Million Little Things, Grey’s Anatomy, and maybe my mom is right. I also love the movie For Love of the Game and I’m jazzed about the new Mulan that is coming out soon.