United Way of the Ozarks’ Board of Directors has announced it is initiating a national search for the organization’s next President/CEO. Greg Burris, who has served in the role since 2019, intends to retire June 30, 2024.
“We thank Greg for steering United Way of the Ozarks into our exciting next era,” said Dr. Joan Barrett, chair of UWO’s board of directors and vice chancellor of student affairs at Ozarks Technical Community College. “In recent years, UWO has adopted two areas of focus – Championing Children and Pathways Out of Poverty. He also led the reengineering of our community investment process to fund programs that address upstream challenges focused on the root cause of issues, support safety net programs providing crisis responses and introduce innovation programs. It’s truly an exciting time for our organization, donors and community partners. The foundation is set for our next President/CEO.”
A unifying force in Southwest Missouri for nearly 100 years, non-profit UWO is renowned for its annual workplace campaign and Day of Caring, the largest one-day volunteer program in Southwest Missouri. In recent years, UWO has introduced new community engagement programs including United for Greatness, Community Field Trips and, soon, Women United.
“It has been my great honor and pleasure to lead the exceptional UWO team. I have learned much from them,” said Burris. “We are blessed with a top-notch Board of Directors, and we get to partner with community supporters and many dedicated nonprofit partners who perform inspirational work every day. What could be better than that?”
Prior to joining United Way, Burris’s community leadership experience included 10 years as the city manager of Springfield and 25 years with Missouri State University, including serving as vice president for administrative and information services. Moving forward, Burris will continue his affiliation with UWO as executive director of Give 5, the civic matchmaking that introduces local retirees to meaningful community volunteer opportunities.
“Greg led us in reinventing our organization while navigating the COVID pandemic and its aftermath, which was an exceptionally difficult time for nonprofits,” continued Barrett. “He maximized efficiencies and better aligned resources in support of our strategic direction. As a result of his stewardship, United Way of the Ozarks is well-positioned for success in the years ahead.”
For more information about the position of President/CEO, click here.