Centre County United Way Names New Executive Director

A Penn State alumna is returning to the area to lead the Centre County United Way.

Paula M. Williams will become CCUW’s executive director on Feb. 6 following a national search by the nonprofit organization’s Board of Directors.

“We are thrilled to have found Paula Williams to assume the leadership of our organization,” CCUW Board Chair Craig Rose said in a statement. ““We are confident that Paula’s passion for community service, connection to the area, and extensive leadership experience bring the right combination to CCUW at the right time.”

Williams, who earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Penn State, comes to the role with extensive experience working with nonprofits in New Mexico. She has been president of the Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors; executive director of the Central New Mexico Komen for the Cure; administrator at Albuquerque Academy, a private school serving middle and high school students; and chief operating officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico.

In her work, she has planned major events, implemented fundraising programs, maintained and managed operational records and budgets and fostered relationships with board members, volunteers, donors, staff and local leaders — all essential skills for leading the CCUW, according to the organization.

“I am excited to return to Centre County and to join the CCUW team,” Williams said. “I am ready to hit the ground running. I know I have a lot to learn, and I can not wait to get started.”

She succeeds Leanne Lenz, who left CCUW in the fall for a position in the Student Care and Advocacy Office at Penn State.

Williams’ first public event as executive director will be the CCUW 2022 Campaign Celebration at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 21 at the American Philatelic Society office in Bellefonte. The event is free, but registration is required.

CCUW’s mission is to improve lives by prioritizing needs and mobilizing human and financial resources to positively impact the education, financial stability and physical and emotional health of Centre County residents.