Two of Berks County’s most prominent philanthropic organizations are preparing for leadership transitions in 2027 as longtime executives at both organizations plan to retire.
Patricia Giles, president of The Wyomissing Foundation, will retire in May 2027, while Tammy White, president of United Way of Berks County, will retire the following month, the organizations jointly announced Wednesday.
White has been selected by the Wyomissing Foundation trustees to succeed Giles as president, effective June 2027.
Pat Giles, president of The Wyomissing Foundation, will retire in May 2027.
(READING EAGLE)
Giles, who previously served 17 years as senior vice president of United Way of Berks County, has led the Wyomissing Foundation since 2017.
Foundation officials credited her with guiding the organization through a period of growth while expanding its focus on strategic philanthropy, community partnerships and stewardship of the legacy established by its founders.
“Pat has provided exceptional leadership to The Wyomissing Foundation and has been instrumental in positioning the organization for continued success,” Kathleen Herbein, chair of the foundation’s board of trustees, said in a statement.
Giles said it has been a privilege to serve the foundation and the Berks community.
“The foundation’s future is bright as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this year,” she said in a statement, “and I look forward to supporting a smooth and successful transition.”
Tammy White, president of United Way of Berks County, will retire in June 2027. White has been selected by the trustees of the Wyomissing Foundation to succeed Patricia Giles as president, effective June 2027.
(Courtesy of United Way of Berks County)
White, who will retire after a 37-year career with United Way, has served as president of the organization for the past 18 years.
During her tenure, the nonprofit expanded its community impact efforts, strengthened partnerships throughout the county, launched initiatives focused on early literacy and educational success, and responded to community crises, according to the release.
“Serving United Way and this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” White said. “Together, we have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families, and I am incredibly proud of what has been accomplished.”
Herbein said White’s experience made her a strong choice to lead the foundation.
“Tammy’s decades of community leadership, partnership building and commitment to improving lives make her uniquely qualified to lead the foundation into its next chapter,” she said.
Pete Connors, chair of United Way’s board of directors, also praised White’s leadership and said the organization is well positioned for the future.
“Tammy’s impact on United Way and Berks County has been extraordinary,” Connors said. “She has strengthened the organization, built a talented leadership team, advanced innovative community initiatives and helped position United Way for long-term success.”
Officials said leadership succession planning has been underway for several years. United Way’s board will begin a search process to identify White’s successor while continuing the organization’s current strategic direction.