In recognition of her broad community leadership, Uniland Development Company Vice President of Corporate Relations, Laura A. Zaepfel, was ranked 28th on the 2025 Buffalo Business First Power 200 Women list and received the She Believed She Could Award from BestSelf Behavioral Health.
The Power 200 Women list showcases the most influential women in Western New York across various industries. It is published by Buffalo Business First, the region’s leading business journal. This marks Ms. Zaepfel’s 11th consecutive inclusion on the list since its debut in 2015.
The She Believed She Could Award honors a woman whose leadership, advocacy, and service have made a lasting impact on the Western New York Community. It was presented to Ms. Zaepfel by BestSelf Behavioral Health, the largest community-based behavioral health organization in Western New York, serving over 41,000 children and adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders.
BestSelf’s award citation notes, “Laura and her team at Uniland Development Company played a key role in developing the Scott Bieler Child Advocacy Center at BestSelf, a trauma-informed space for children and families affected by sexual and physical abuse. She also leads Uniland’s corporate philanthropy efforts and has dedicated decades of service to causes spanning education, social justice, health, and veterans support.”
Therese J. Fuerst, Chief Marketing and Development Officer at BestSelf, adds, “I’ve seen the impact Laura has made, not just in the business community, but in women’s lives across Western New York. She leads by example, using her voice, influence, and integrity to empower the next generation of women leaders. Her commitment to service and equity is a model for all of us.”
Earlier this summer, Ms. Zaepfel was presented with the Friend of Hispanic Heritage Award by the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York. She was commended for Uniland’s commitment to the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY, including the establishment of a vibrant new Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute, which represents the company’s dedication to building more inclusive and prosperous communities for all people of Western New York.
A key leader of the company since 1993, Ms. Zaepfel works extensively with local, regional, state, and federal government and business leaders to optimize the Western New York business climate. Ms. Zaepfel also directs Uniland’s corporate philanthropy program, continuing the company’s long tradition of community involvement and support. In her role, she works with and volunteers for community and business organizations that advocate for residents through social justice and inclusion, health and wellness, education, and environmental programs.
