Ileana Kniss, United Way of Central Florida

Ileana Kniss was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and moved to Lakeland, FL at the age of 7. As a long-time resident, she graduated from Lakeland High School before earning her BA in Communications from the University of Central Florida. With over 18 years of experience in fundraising, development, and community relations, Ileana joined the United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) team as the Chief Development and Marketing Officer in 2023. Her career has included roles with the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland (now GiveWell Community Foundation), Lakeland Regional Foundation, Polk State College Foundation and Peace River Center.

Ileana has a history of leadership and service, having served as past president of both the Kiwanis Club of Lakeland and the Polk County Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She is also a graduate of Leadership Lakeland Class XXX and Polk Vision’s Leadership Polk. Outside of work, Ileana enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and giving back to the community. A proud boy mom to two sons, ages 19 and 15, she is married to her high school sweetheart, Gregg.