United Way of the Ozarks picks next CEO

RELATED

Burris to retire from United Way

Last edited 8:46 a.m., May 22, 2024 [Editor's note: Information on the executive director role at Foster Adopt Connect Inc. has been added.]

United Way of the Ozarks has selected the next leader of the nonprofit.

Brandi VanAntwerp, who is currently executive director of Foster Adopt Connect Inc., is scheduled to join United Way on June 17 as president-elect before becoming president and CEO on July 1, according to a news release. She'll succeed Greg Burris, who announced his planned June 30 retirement from United Way earlier this year.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Brandi VanAntwerp – a high-caliber leader, community connector, innovator and nonprofit veteran – to help write the next chapter in United Way of the Ozarks’ growth,” said board Chair David Agee, partner at Husch Blackwell LLP, in the release. “We are delighted to have found such talent and heart locally and are gratified that so many excellent candidates from around the country stepped forward for this position.”

The board conducted a national search that started in January. There were more than 100 applicants and five finalists, said Mary Sue Hoban, director of communication and engagement for United Way of the Ozarks.

VanAntwerp, who has more than 16 years of nonprofit leadership experience, has been executive director of Foster Adopt Connect in Springfield since 2021. A member of Springfield Business Journal's 2023 class of Most Influential Women, VanAntwerp has experience at the CoxHealth Foundation and Habitat for Humanity of Springfield, Missouri Inc.

“My personal mission and that of UWO align so well – to champion our community’s children and provide pathways out of poverty," VanAntwerp said in the release. "I can’t wait to bring my personal and professional experience to this role and to work alongside the incredible board and staff."

Burris, as previously announced, will serve as the part-time executive director of United Way's Give 5 program upon his exit from the president and CEO role.

VanAntwerp said via email that Foster Adopt Connect would post its executive director role soon, likely within the next week.