October 09, 2024
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Women United will honor Laurie Siebert, Senior Vice President of Valley National Financial Advisors, with the 2024 Betsy Torrence Philanthropist of the Year Award, the group’s highest accolade.
Women United recognizes the Philanthropist of the Year as a member who is active in the community, is a philanthropic leader in the Lehigh Valley and demonstrates a personal commitment of time, talent and treasure to the best of her ability. The group’s founding president Betsy Torrence is recognized as the model of the Philanthropist of the Year awardee.
“When you understand the depth of passion and commitment Women United members have in supporting the organizations sensitive to the needs of women and children in our community, you cannot help but want to be part of that,” shared Siebert. “And, to this day, I thank past Women United President, Val Lane, for taking the time to share that passion.”
Members will present Siebert’s award at Women United 2024, sponsored by Silver Sponsor Air Products with additional support from Capital Blue Cross, Fulton Bank, Lehigh Valley Health Network, King, Spry, Herman, Freund & Faul, LLC, PSECU Credit Union and Valley National Financial Advisors. This annual event will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at the Renaissance Allentown Hotel in Allentown from 5:30-8 p.m.
“To be nominated for the Philanthropist of the Year award, let alone receive it, is an incredible honor,” said Lisa Daugherty, President of Women United. “Laurie exemplifies what it means to be a philanthropic leader in the Lehigh Valley, dedicating her time, talent, and treasure to causes that make lasting positive impact our community. Her passion and commitment serve as an inspiration to all of us in Women United, and we are grateful for her unwavering generosity and leadership.”
Laurie is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner™ professional, Accredited Estate Planner, Registered Representative, Independent Adviser Representative and Senior Vice President of Valley National Financial Advisors. She is a longtime supporter of Women United and previously served as President of Women United for 3 years. During her tenure on the cabinet, Laurie was a passionate advocate for every organization Women United selected as a Signature Project. Under her leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic, Women United continued to grow and nearly doubled their fundraising efforts.
“We are incredibly proud to recognize Laurie as this year’s Philanthropist of the Year. Her leadership, particularly during the pandemic, was instrumental in Women United achieving record-breaking growth,” shared Marci Lesko, United Way’s Chief Executive Officer. “Through her unwavering dedication and selfless volunteerism, Laurie embodies our vision to ensure everyone in the Greater Lehigh Valley belongs and thrives. Her passion for improving the quality of life in our community and her advocacy for every organization we support is truly remarkable. Congratulations, Laurie.”
At Valley National Financial Advisors, Laurie collaborates with a dedicated investment advisor to offer comprehensive wealth management services, integrating tax, financial and investment planning. With her genuine care for clients, Laurie listens attentively to their concerns and tirelessly works to solve their problems, particularly during sensitive life events. After 30 years of experience in accounting and finance, Laurie finds joy in connecting with people, making investments in their lives and building lasting relationships across multiple generations.
Laurie hosts ‘Your Financial Choices’ every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on WDIY 88.1 FM (a local NPR member station) to educate listeners in improving their financial skills and making informed decisions. Additionally, she contributes articles to news publications, serves as a media resource and formerly served on the editorial board for the PICPA’s CPA Journal as Personal Financial Planning Column coordinator. Committed to her fiduciary responsibility, Laurie stays updated on ever-changing laws and regulations through ongoing education.
United Way Women United members leverage their individual strengths and collective resources to improve the lives of women, children and families in the Greater Lehigh Valley through philanthropy, advocacy and volunteer efforts. Women United is part of a global network of more than 55,000 women in 165 communities across six countries, all dedicated to improving lives and creating stronger communities.
