With great excitement, we welcome Ravi K. Respeto as United Way’s next President. Ravi is a Charlottesville resident with long-standing ties to Central Virginia and joins our organization after serving as an executive at the Albemarle Housing Improvement Program since 2010 and volunteer or Board member at a number of local non-profits.
Ravi will assume leadership of United Way in mid-July, following Cathy Train’s announcement that she would step down after three decades as President.
Over the winter and spring, the search committee appointed by the Board of Directors conducted an extensive and comprehensive regional search for our new leader, working with an excellent executive search firm that focuses on the non-profit sector. Throughout the five-month search, Ravi distinguished herself with a genuine passion and clear vision for the future of the United Way and a strong fundraising and communications skill set. She has a track record of success in the public and private sectors, and her demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of families throughout our region elevated her candidacy in a highly competitive field.
The Board has challenged Ravi to organize a three to five-year strategic plan and associated fund raising strategy that will build on the accomplishments of Cathy and our exceptionally dedicated staff and community partners. Over time, we expect to further our aspirations and results within our targeted impact areas of early education and enhanced school readiness, financial resilience of local families, and community-based health.