Ann Keil Dux, an Emmy award-winning journalist, and the medical communications and media relations director for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System, shared how she gives back to her hometown of Miami through her commitment to United Way. Read more about what drove the Miami Herbert Business school alumna to get involved with Giving Communities and why she encourages her colleagues to support them.
How did you first connect with United Way Miami?
I was introduced to United Way Miami in 2015 when I returned to Miami, my hometown, after more than a decade living and working in communities across the country. I quickly embedded myself in the conversations centered on awareness and devoted myself to the solutions in hopes of doing my part to improve the quality of life for all in Miami.
What motivated you to become part of the Giving Communities and leadership team?
United Way Miami is a driving force in the community. It is a symbol of hope, a conduit for positive impact, and a connector of people who believe that together we can do more. After spending two years leading more than 600 young professionals as the co-chair of United Way’s Young Leaders Giving Community, I now serve as an ex-officio United Way Board Member and actively participate in Women United and Small Business United—two UW Giving Communities.
Can you share some of the highlights and memorable moments from your involvement over the years?
In addition to volunteering with like-minded individuals, who are passionate about improving the communities we serve, I enjoy planning and participating in events and supporting key United Way initiatives. In recent years, I have emceed and moderated a handful of events and encourage media coverage to highlight the need to work together to build a more equitable Miami. In 2016, I vividly remember painting a mural on an elementary school building with a great group of people. The mural, that was inspired by a Miami-based artist, added color to a once blank canvas and represented our ongoing commitment to education and our community partners.
Why do you encourage others, including your colleagues, to connect with United Way Miami?
I found a second family in United Way Miami when I was simply looking for an opportunity to give back to a community I cherish deeply. I can hardly put into the words the true impact the organization has had on my life both personally and professionally. What I can say is that I appreciate every moment I spend with its dedicated staff, fellow volunteers, and members of our community who believe deeply in the shared responsibility of building a stronger Miami.
In addition to her roles with United Way Miami, Dux is also a member of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami Women Building Up Women. In 2017, she was recognized as a “Women of Style and Substance” by the South Florida Luxury Guide, and in 2020, she was named an Equitable Advisors Businesswomen of the Year Award finalist. She also received a Miami Herbert Business School Leadership Award, and more recently an Emmy nomination for a video series focused on National Cancer Survivor Month.
Learn more about United Way Miami Giving Communities. Give today.
