From the CEO
John Franklin's Bio

John Franklin, CEO of United Way of Morris County
John Franklin became Chief Executive Officer of United Way of Morris County in April 2002, after serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. Franklin was voted into the position of CEO by United Way of Morris County's volunteer board of directors and the executive committee.

Franklin led the campaign and resource development effort at United Way of Morris County for five years. During this time, he expanded the traditional fundraising activities to broaden the base of support and introduce new markets to United Way. Franklin initiated The Women's Leadership Council to recognize the role of women in community service. He also initiated the Commercial Real Estate Network to bring that market segment into the discussion of building community through United Way. He has played a major role in re-engineering United Way of Morris County to position the organization for a leadership role in community impact, emphasizing the value of diversity. Under his direction, the volunteer base has expanded in scope, breadth, depth, and increased numbers.

Franklin draws heavily on his corporate background in marketing, manufacturing, and product development. As Senior Vice President of Manufacturing and Product Development for Arrow Group Industries, he employed cross-functional skills that brought marketing and manufacturing issues together for cost savings and increased sales.

Franklin's previous experience in non-profits includes working as the Executive Director of the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown and as the head group worker in an inner-city child care center. His passion for serving the community is evident in his volunteer activity. Franklin spends over 700 hours a year mentoring teenagers at his church and serving the homeless through the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown and Habitat for Humanity in South Carolina.

Franklin has a Bachelor's degree in communication, a Master's in theological studies, and graduate studies in design and art. He holds an honorary degree in design from the College of Design, Art and Architecture of the University of Cincinnati. He taught industrial design at the University of Cincinnati for four years and taught public relations and communication as an adjunct professor at the College of Saint Elizabeth for two years. He has also lectured on design, physical environment for children, marketing, merchandising, business ethics, homelessness, and poverty in numerous academic, corporate and professional settings throughout the Midwest and the East Coast.

John Franklin and his wife Bonnie have lived in Morristown for over 20 years. Their children: Josh and Chloe are both married and live in Morris County.