MCLEAN, VA--(Marketwired - Apr 17, 2013) - Peter D. Aquino, Executive Chairman of Primus Telecommunications Group, Incorporated (PTGi) (NYSE: [ PTGI ]), a global facilities-based integrated provider of advanced telecommunications products and services, has been elected as Chairman of the United Way U.S.A. Board of Trustees, effective April 18, 2013. Mr. Aquino has served on the United Way U.S.A. Board of Trustees for four years and has chaired the U.S. Nominating Committee for two years, leading an effort to strengthen United Way's national volunteer leadership body. 

United Way's mission is to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health -- the building blocks of a quality life. Mr. Aquino will lead United Way's efforts in the U.S. to improve educational outcomes for children and young people; help individuals, families and communities achieve greater financial stability; and promote healthy lifestyles for youth and adults. 

Mr. Aquino commented, "It is a tremendous honor to be asked to lead an organization of such importance to our communities. United Way U.S.A. connects all sectors of society to create long-term social change that helps individuals and families achieve their potential. I look forward to continuing to serve the United Ways and those who benefit from all they do."

"Peter's extensive communications background, business acumen, and commitment to United Way make him an effective and passionate leader for our network," said Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. "Peter's working knowledge of the global market is an additional asset as we work to build stronger collaborations and partnerships in our U.S and worldwide network of United Ways."

Mr. Aquino currently serves as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Primus Telecommunications Group, Inc. (NYSE: [ PTGI ]), primarily a Canadian and US based Telecom provider and datacenter holdings company, after serving as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer from October 2010 to December 2012. He previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of RCN Corporation, a provider of digital video, high speed data, voice and high-capacity transport services from December 2006 to December 2010.

Mr. Aquino is a graduate of Monclair State College in New Jersey, and holds an MBA from George Washington University in Washington, DC. He currently serves on the Boards of PTGi and TiVo, Inc.

United Way Worldwide is the leadership and support organization for the network of nearly 1,800 community-based United Ways in more than 41 countries and territories. It advances the common good by focusing on education, income and health. The United Way movement mobilizes millions to action -- to give, advocate and volunteer -- to improve conditions in their communities. For more information about United Way, please visit: UnitedWay.org.

About PTGi
PTGi (Primus Telecommunications Group, Incorporated) is a leading provider of advanced communication solutions, including traditional and IP voice, data, mobile services, broadband Internet, metro fiber and Carrier Ethernet to business and residential customers in Canada and the United States. PTGi is also one of the leading international wholesale service providers to fixed and mobile network operators worldwide. PTGi owns and operates its own global network of next-generation IP soft switches, media gateways, hosted IP/SIP platforms, broadband infrastructure, and fiber capacity in Canada. Founded in 1994, PTGi is headquartered in McLean, Virginia.