As Vice President of Corporate Relations, Laura Zaepfel works extensively with local, regional, state and federal government and business leaders to optimize the Western New York business climate. Ms. Zaepfel frequently works with leading businesses and support organizations to develop policies and enhance procedures that produce a diverse workforce and a sustainable economy in the region. A strong supporter of diversity, equity and inclusion, she works internally and externally on initiatives and workforce development efforts which promote and embrace cross-cultural diversity in the company and community.
Ms. Zaepfel also manages Uniland’s corporate philanthropy program, continuing the company’s long tradition of community involvement and support. She works with and volunteers for community and business organizations that advocate for residents through social justice and diversity, health and wellness, education, and environmental programs.
Over the years, Ms. Zaepfel has provided leadership to Catholic Charities, Humanities New York, the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP), the National Federation of Just Communities (NFJC), and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. She is a former Trustee of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and a current trustee of Canisius College.
Professional Affiliations
- Member – Amherst Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
- Former Board Chair – Amherst Chamber of Commerce, 2018-2020
- Board Member – The Exchange at Beverly Gray
- Member – Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Development Advisory Council and Diversity & Inclusion Council
- Member – NAIOP, The Commercial Real Estate Development Association
- Member – Urban Land Institute (ULI)
- Member – Canisius College Board of Trustees
- Member – FBI Citizens Academy
Philanthropic and Civic Endeavors
- Board of Directors – Western New York Women’s Foundation
- Board of Directors – Chippewa Alliance
- Board of Directors – Law Enforcement Foundation of Western New York
- Former Chair – Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park Veterans Annual Tribute Awards
- Former Trustee – Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo
- Former Chair – Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Advancement Committee and 2016 & 2017 Gala 22:6 Education Dinner
- Former Chair – Catholic Charities Eight-County Annual Appeal and Board of Trustees
- Former Trustee – Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
- Former Co-Chair – Western New York Food Bank Capital Campaign
Recent Honors
- Buffalo Business First Power 100 Women, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
- Buffalo Business First IDEA (Inclusion Diversity Equity Awareness) Award, 2020
- Niagara University Caritas Medal, 2019
- Buffalo Black Achievers President’s Award, 2018
- Community Angel Award, 2017
- Girl Scouts of Western New York Woman of Distinction, 2012
- Buffalo Business First Women of Influence Award, 2011
- NAIOP National Capitol Dome Award, 2010
- Canisius College LaSalle Medal, 2009
Education
- B.S., Canisius College
- M.A., University at Buffalo
