Board of Directors

James Flaherty, Esq.
With a well respected law practice in Woodbury, Connecticut, Jim Flaherty serves a vital role on the Board of Directors of UPals Partners. Flaherty Law specializes in assisting high net worth individuals with their estate, trusts and wealth planning and for closely held business owners with the creation of wealth succession plans.

Jim’s long commitment to civic and charitable organizations has given him broad experience in managing non-profit organizations to their highest potential. As a former board member, Jim has guided the Morris Foundation and the Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging to provide significant impact in their communities. Independently, Jim offers himself directly through pro bono work for the Foundation for Financial Services Professionals, representing individuals who would not otherwise have access to legal counsel.

Jim is admitted to the bars of Massachusetts and Connecticut and the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, the U.S. Tax Court, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims and the U.S. Supreme Court. Jim is a member of the American Bar Association and the Connecticut Bar Association where he is also a member of the Executive Committees for the Estates and Probate Section and Tax Section.

Jim received his B.S. in Finance from Fairfield University, his J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law, and his L.LM in Taxation from Boston University.

Kevin Walston, Educator
Kevin’s participation on the board of UPals Partners provides the organization with the superior guidance by a professional in the trenches of education. Kevin has dedicated his life to create and monitor policies and practices that promote a non threatening learning environment; to ensure a school culture that encourages continuous improvements for teachers and students; and to develop an environment that encourages open communication with colleagues, students, and the community.

Kevin has been instrumental in the development of innovative instructional programs in Norwalk. Kevin volunteers much of his time at the George Carver Community Center for underserved youth.

Kevin has a Master’s of Science in School Administration & Supervision from The College of New Rochelle and a BS in Black Studies from Herbert H. Lehman College.

Edward L. Abrams, Vice President, IBM
Ed has been a tireless supporter of educational endeavors and philanthropic efforts and the company he represents is well known for its passion in this area too. Ed Abrams brings a business perspective to the UPals organization from his broad experience at IBM

Ed is currently the Vice President of Marketing for IBM’s General Business area on a global basis. In this role, Ed is responsible for leading a diverse team that supports IBM’s focus on Small and Medium sized businesses developing, planning, and executing marketing strategies and plans to build, accelerate and close business. Prior to his current role, Ed has held leadership positions that include global marketing and sales, global communications and program management.

Prior to joining IBM, Ed spent 13 years in New York City in the Advertising industry with firms that include Young & Rubicam, Wells Rich Greene, Bozell Worldwide and Dentsu.

A graduate of SUNY Buffalo with a degree in Communications and Marketing, Ed lives in Norwalk CT with his wife Suzanne and daughters Abigail and Caroline.