About Finney County United Way

Executive Director

Deborah (Deb) Oyler

Deb has held the position of Executive Director at Finney County United Way since December 2017, bringing with her over 30 years of extensive experience in non-profit management. Her expertise lies in various areas such as budget development and implementation, fundraising for both operational and capital initiatives, active participation in meetings at national, state, and local levels, effective management of board relationships, advocacy with local, state, and national authorities, as well as strategic planning and execution.

Previously, Deb served as the Executive Director of High Plains Public Radio, where she successfully managed the day-to-day operations of a public radio station spanning four states. Before her tenure in public broadcasting, she focused on education, specializing in deaf/blind education.

Her educational background includes a B.S. from the University of North Dakota, along with credentials in deaf/blind education from Northern Illinois University and the Helen Keller National Center.

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Beyond her professional roles, Deb is deeply involved in her community, serving on several boards, including as Past Chair, United Ways of Kansas, Chair, Southwest Development Services Inc Foundation Board and as Treasurer for the Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce Board. She also represents the Southwest region on the Kansas Balance of State Continuum of Care, Steering Committee. Notably, she served as a Garden City Commissioner from 2020 to 2024 and was recently re-elected for a 4-year term. She assumed the role of Mayor in 2023 and Vice Mayor in 2026. Additionally, Deb has contributed her expertise to the Downtown Vision Board, Garden City Recreation Commission, and the Kansas Public Broadcasting Council. In 2024, Deb received the Distinguished Elected Official Award from the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association.

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Deb resides in Garden City, KS, with her husband, Rex. Together, they have a blended family consisting of five daughters, three sons, six granddaughters, and one grandson.

Bookkeeper

Caroline Gallegos

Caroline started at Finney County United Way in 2016. 

Previously, Caroline worked for USD 457 until her retirement.

Campaign Assistant

Ann Knoll

Ann is a former board president and board member for FCUW. In 2022, she joined the staff as a part-time Campaign Assistant.

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Previously, Ann was a teacher at Wiley Elementary. She enjoys spending time with her son and daughter and her grandchildren.