New trustees bring expertise in communications, business leadership, and philanthropy to advance student success.
Immokalee, FL – Guadalupe Center announced the appointment of Kellie Burns, Jacob F. “J.F.” Scherer, and Ellen Vanderburg to its Board of Trustees, bringing together three accomplished leaders whose expertise will help advance its mission of breaking the cycle of poverty through education.
Burns, a trusted voice in Southwest Florida for more than three decades, serves as the primary anchor of NBC2’s top-rated evening newscasts. Her distinguished career in broadcast journalism has earned her numerous accolades, including two Suncoast Emmy Awards, a national Edward R. Murrow Award, and multiple honors from the Florida Associated Press. She has reported on major global and regional events, including the 1996 Olympics, Haiti’s 2010 earthquake, and Hurricane Ian. A dedicated supporter of Guadalupe Center since 2007, Burns previously served on the organization’s Board of Trustees and has emceed its annual gala for many years.
Scherer brings more than four decades of experience in the insurance industry, most recently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Insurance Officer at Cincinnati Insurance Company. In this role, he oversaw commercial and personal lines, reinsurance, distribution, while also serving on the board of company subsidiaries. Since becoming involved with Guadalupe Center in 2023, he has served as a major donor and active Tutor Corps mentor.
Vanderburg brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services, specializing in wealth management, estate planning, and philanthropic advising. A certified public accountant, she spent 15 years in tax roles with national and regional financial institutions. Vanderburg has been involved with Guadalupe Center since 2015 and currently serves on the Professional Advisors Council and as a member of the Golden Giving Circle.
“Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective and a deep commitment to our mission,” said Dawn Montecalvo, President of Guadalupe Center. “Their leadership will strengthen our impact and help create meaningful possibilities for students and families in our community.”
Burns is actively involved with organizations including Golisano Children’s Hospital, Kids’ Minds Matter, and the American Heart Association, and serves as a Trustee for Canterbury School and the Uncommon Friends Foundation. Scherer has held leadership roles with organizations including United Way of Greater Cincinnati, the Eastern Illinois University School of Business, and Ursuline Academy. Vanderburg has supported organizations such as United Way, Naples Botanical Garden, and The League Club through both volunteer and leadership roles.
Their collective experience and commitment to the community will help strengthen Guadalupe Center’s impact and expand opportunities for students and families in Immokalee.
