
Scott Keenan, United Way of Tompkins County’s Board Chair, announced that as of August 5th UWTC President & CEO, James Brown, has retired.
Since his start at the UW of St. Louis, over his 43 years of service James Brown worked on 44 UW campaigns in four unique communities. Joining as an interim CEO in 1997 at the UW of Tompkins County, he was officially named as its President and CEO in 1998.
Over his 25 years acting as CEO, UWTC raised over $47 million. Programs that were also started during this time include Youth and Philanthropy, Summers of Service, Student United Ways, Hunger & Food Security Initiatives, and UrgentRx.
Keenan announced following Brown’s retirement a temporary leadership structure, where Chief Administrative Officer, Gail Belokur, will take the role of Interim Chief Operating Officer.
“I am encouraged and thankful that Gail has taken on this important role. Her leadership will provide stability and continuity for the organization as the Board undertakes the task of finding a new CEO. The board is grateful for the staff at UWTC that will support Gail during this transition period and looks forward to continuing to serve our communities.” Said Keenan
A committee is currently being organized by the Board of Directors for the United Way of Tompkins County to find the next to fill the CEO position.