After nearly a decade, Tammy Gentzel will be leaving her position as executive director of the Centre County United Way next summer.
Gentzel, who joined the organization in July 2010, tendered her resignation effective July 31, 2019. She and the Centre County United Way Board of Directors said in a news release that the extended period will allow for a selection process and smooth transition for her successor and to advance a new strategic planning initiative.
‘It has been an honor to work with Centre County United Way volunteers, staff, donors and the board. Our ability to assist families and individuals to reach goals to improve their education, financial standing and health is, in my opinion, beyond compare,’ Gentzel said. ‘I can’t wait to see the incredible accomplishments that will materialize in the coming years. In the meantime, I am at a point in my life where I would like to put more time and energy into my family and hobbies. I’m looking forward to finding a new career path that will afford me that opportunity.’
During Gentzel’s tenure, Centre County United Way has raised and distributed more than $16.5 million for improving the health, education and financial standing of more than 50,000 residents served by three dozen partner agencies.
Also during that time, the PNC Bank/Col. Gerald Russell CCUW Day of Caring has had 62,700 people volunteer their time and effort to save partner agencies more than $10 million on infrastructure and labor costs. The annual Trash to Treasure Sale in partnership with Penn State has raised $812,000 and kept 1,025 tons of waste out of the landfill.
‘Under Tammy’s leadership, we have moved the Centre County United Way forward in significant ways,’ Board Chair Hugh Mose said. ‘We have become more adept at sharing our cause and the stories that drive the need for our annual campaigns. We have instituted a new venture for United Way – adding a direct donor outreach initiative to our traditional corporate and employee-focused campaigns. At the same time, we have modified our administrative structure and internal operations to improve our ability to partner with other organizations, provide technical and public relations support to our Partner Network, and to raise and distribute funds efficiently and effectively.’
The search for a new executive director will begin in late January.
Mose said that Centre County United Way is in a strong position moving forward to assist Centre County residents.
‘We wish Tammy a fantastic future as she pursues new opportunities,’ he said.
