Movers and Shakers: United Way Suncoast Welcomes Suzanne McCormick as CEO

SARASOTA – Suzanne McCormick has taken the helm as President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way Suncoast. McCormick comes to United Way Suncoast from United Way of Greater Portland (Maine).

“The opportunity to lead an organization that touches the lives of so many in this wonderful community on a daily basis is rewarding in and of itself,” said Suzanne McCormick, United Way Suncoast CEO. "I want every member of our communities to feel connected to and be a part of our work. Most importantly, I want everyone in our reach to have the real chances they each deserve."

McCormick brings a well-rounded, successful career in public service. Her 13-year career with United Way of Greater Portland included a variety of key roles spanning from resource and major gift development, volunteer services, and community impact programming, prior to serving as its CEO. In addition to her extensive United Way experience, McCormick served as CEO for both the American Red Cross of Southern Maine and the People's Regional Opportunity Program. McCormick began her public service career shortly after graduating from Duke University with a B.A. in political science, serving two years in Thailand through the Peace Corps.

“McCormick's innate ability to cultivate community connections that result in positive changes will help United Way Suncoast achieve the goals of its new strategic plan," said William W. Merrill, III, Shareholder, Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, P.A. and Chair of the United Way Suncoast Board of Directors. “Her desire to lead a career in serving others is a reflection of her character and compassion, both which directly mirror the values of United Way."

McCormick’s initial focus will be to meet with community leaders, volunteers and partners across the four-county Suncoast region to learn and listen for the connections that will help successfully deliver United Way Suncoast's new strategic plan to break the cycle of poverty through a focus on early literacy, youth success and helping adults achieve financial stability.

About United Way Suncoast

United Way Suncoast staff, volunteers and trusted community partners serve DeSoto, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Sarasota counties by developing, enhancing and implementing services and programs to help create a stronger, more vibrant community. United Way Suncoast is changing the community’s story by helping to break the cycle of generational poverty through educational programs that give children the skills to succeed and help adults achieve long-term financial stability, as well as provide support services to those who need it most. For more information, call 941.366.2686 (Sarasota office) or 813.274.0933 (Tampa office), or visit www.unitedwaysuncoast.org. To find Suncoast-area volunteer opportunities, visit www.volunteersuncoast.org.