United Way of the Plains Announces New Board Members and 2023 Chair

WICHITA, Kan., Jan. 11, 2023 — United Way of the Plains has elected new officers and welcomed six new members to the 2023 board of directors. Four directors have been confirmed to serve a second term.

The six new directors are:

  • Sarah Andrews, North American Talent Leader for Koch Industries
  • Ron Baker, Project Manager/Sports Medicine at Ascension Via Christi
  • Bradley Dyer, Business Development for Credit Union of America
  • Donna Lin Niles, Business Development Advisor for Cargill
  • Gary Schmitt, Managing Director at INTRUST Bank
  • Katie Warren, President of United Teachers Wichita

The four returning directors are:

  • Walt Berry, President and CEO of Berry Companies, Inc.
  • Adam Dunn, VP and CFO of Eby Construction
  • Tonya Sudduth, Head of U.S. Strategy for BOMBARDIER
  • Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech

United Way of the Plains President and CEO Pete Najera said the organization is grateful for the work done by the nominating committee to secure knowledgeable and committed board members. Najera noted, “We are celebrating 100 years of serving our community in 2023. Our Board leadership is an essential foundation for continuing our work to serve those in need for the next 100 years. They are each very passionate about improving the lives of everyone in our region so that they reach their full potential.”

Craig Anderson, President at Equity Bank was elected as the 2023 board chair. Anderson has been a long-time supporter of United Way and has held leadership roles at United Way of the Plains and served on the board of directors for Mile High United Way (Denver) and United Way of Greater Kansas City. He said, “United Way has had a major impact in every community where I’ve lived during my banking career. I’m honored to be part of the work being done in south central Kansas and I’m looking forward to continuing the momentum created by this team and the nonprofits they partner with to improve the lives of those in need.”

Najera said, “This year’s board leadership is committed to enhancing our organization’s impact. They are motivated and enthusiastic about focusing on advancing the common good. We are all inspired by their confidence in our ability to work together to solve our community’s greatest challenges.”

See unitedwayplains.org for a complete listing of the 2023 Board of Directors and to learn more about the organization’s mission.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Angie Prather, Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer, (316) 267-1321, aprather@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on healtheducation, financial stability and basic needs – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: FacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedIn and TikTok.

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