United Way Space Coast has a new leader. The Rockledge-based nonprofit announced on June 18 that it has named Kathryn Rudloff, DBA, as its new President, tapping a familiar name in Brevard County nonprofit and small-business circles to guide the organization into what its board is calling its next chapter. Kathryn has proven to be one of the most effective and influential leaders on the Space Coast for years.
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Rudloff will work with the United Way Space Coast Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and community partners to advance the organization’s mission and set its strategic direction, serving as steward of resources dedicated to improving lives through education, financial stability and health initiatives.
“I am incredibly excited for this opportunity to serve the Space Coast community, and I deeply appreciate the trust United Way has placed in me,” Rudloff said in the announcement. “I look forward to working alongside our staff, volunteers, donors and partners to expand our impact and continue building a stronger future for individuals and families in Brevard.”
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The appointment marks a transition out of her current role. Rudloff confirmed to The Space Coast Rocket that she will be leaving weVENTURE Women’s Business Center and making the move to United Way in mid-July.
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Rudloff has served since 2020 as Executive Director of weVENTURE, housed in the Bisk College of Business at Florida Institute of Technology. The program, funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration, serves roughly 900 unique small-business clients each year. Under her leadership, weVENTURE was recognized by the SBA as a top-performing Women’s Business Center in Florida every year of her tenure, including being named the 2024 Women’s Business Center of Excellence for the Southeast region and the 2026 Florida Small Business Community Partner of the Year.
Before joining Florida Tech, Rudloff built a career in communications, fundraising and community advocacy spanning higher education, nonprofits and the political arena, leading campaigns at the local, regional and state level. She has held leadership roles with the Junior League of South Brevard, the Association of Women’s Business Centers, Brevard Citizens for Better Schools and The Haven for Children, among others.
Incoming Board Chair Travis Proctor framed the hire as a strategic one for the organization’s future.
“Kathryn is the right leader at the right time for United Way Space Coast,” Proctor said. “She brings a unique combination of experience and a passion for building high-performing organizations. The Board was particularly impressed by her vision for how United Way can continue evolving as a trusted community convener, bringing together businesses, nonprofits, government, and philanthropic leaders to tackle our region’s most pressing challenges.”
Rudloff holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from The Ohio State University, a Master’s in Political Management from George Washington University, and a Doctor of Business Administration from Florida Institute of Technology.
The announcement drew quick congratulations from across the community, including from her husband, Alex Rudloff, who posted that he and their sons were “VERY excited for Kathryn’s next chapter.” She is certainly a “Woman who rocks.”
United Way Space Coast says it mobilizes the caring power of the community to improve lives and create lasting change, addressing critical needs through a safety net of health and human services. More information is available at uwspacecoast.org or by calling 321-631-2740.
