University Trustee Kathy Waller ’80, ’83S (MBA) has served as co-chair of the Women’s Network since 2022. In this role, she has shared the growth and vision of the network with fellow co-chairs Tiffany Taylor ’91 and, then, Abby Zabrodsky ’14, ’19S (MBA), after Taylor’s tenure ended.
For Waller, volunteerism has always been rooted in a duty of care—a belief that when you’ve benefited from something, you have a responsibility to nurture it for those who follow.
“We owe it to one another to make sure this community thrives,” Waller reflects. “I’ve always seen giving back as an extension of gratitude. Rochester gave me opportunities that shaped my life, and leading the Women’s Network has been one of the most rewarding ways to pay that forward.”
Now, as she steps down from her role as co-chair, Waller’s focus is on ensuring that same sense of care continues with incoming co-chair and University Trustee Judy Reinsdorf ’86. “Stewardship is about legacy,” Waller says. “You lead so others can step forward. And Judy is exactly the kind of leader who will continue that spirit.”
As the new co-chair of the Women’s Network, Reinsdorf envisions expanding opportunities for alumnae at every stage of life and career. Her focus is on creating programming that promotes alumnae to “grow with the place that helped build their foundation” by amplifying opportunities for mentorship, leadership, and professional growth.
Reinsdorf’s engagement as an alumna did not start until nearly 30 years after she graduated when she retired as executive vice president and general counsel at Johnson Controls International. Her interest in career exploration and professional growth opportunities for students, prompted David Primo, a professor of political science and business administration, to invite her to be a guest speaker in his class, followed by a career workshop for aspiring law students. At that time, she hadn’t even returned to campus for a Meliora Weekend, and “That first experience really opened my eyes,” Reinsdorf recalls. “I hadn’t planned to get involved, but after speaking with students and seeing their enthusiasm, I realized how much I can offer—and how much I could continue learning from this community.”
After that engagement with students, Reinsdorf found the inspiration to deepen her involvement with the University, and the Women’s Network became the perfect place to do that. An advocate for professional development and creating opportunities for growth, Reinsdorf joined the Women’s Network Personal and Professional Development Committee in 2020. And in 2023, she was invited to join the University Board of Trustees.
Her path into University leadership underscores an important message: you’re never too far removed from the University to get involved. The right time is simply the time that works best depending on where you are in your career journey.
“There are seasons in life,” Reinsdorf says. “Sometimes you’re in a phase where volunteering fits naturally, and sometimes you’re in a phase of building your career or family. Both are valuable. When you can’t give time, take advantage of the professional development and learning resources the University offers. They’ll help you grow until the moment you’re ready to give back.”
“The journey of leaders like Judy Reinsdorf ’86 is a true testament to the power of our volunteer community,” shared Karen Chance Mercurius, vice president of alumni and constituent engagement. She went on to add, “Judy’s elevation—from an active member and leader in the Women’s Network to an esteemed member of the University Board of Trustees—beautifully illustrates how the Women’s Network actively seeks to identify, mentor, and lift up our most dedicated women leaders. Judy was originally recruited as a member by the inaugural Women’s Network co-chair and University Trustee, Gail Lione ’71. We are so grateful for all the support we have received from volunteers, Board of Trustees, and University leadership to launch and continue to build community within the Women’s Network.”
The Women’s Network represents what the University of Rochester does best, bringing people together around shared values and a shared vision.
Together, Waller and Reinsdorf embody what it means to lead with purpose. They have shown that volunteer leadership is not just about giving time, it’s about creating impact. Networks like the Women’s Network serve as bridges between students, alumni, and the broader University community, carrying forward a legacy of learning and support.
Their message to fellow alumni is clear: find your passion and get involved. Whether through mentorship, event participation, or volunteer leadership, there’s a place for every Rochester alumna to make a difference.
“Our community is unique,” Reinsdorf reflects. “When we engage, we amplify each other’s strengths. That’s what makes Rochester special, and that’s what keeps us moving forward.”
As the Women’s Network celebrates its leadership transition, it invites others to step into their own “duty of care” to lead, connect, and grow within this thriving alumni community.
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a place for you here, Kathy and Judy have the answer:
Yes, there absolutely is. And it starts with getting involved.
–Mary Burke, November 2025