Brandi VanAntwerp has been named president/CEO of the United Way of the Ozarks. She will start the job June 17.
VanAntwerp, 43, currently is executive director of FosterAdopt Connect in Springfield, a post she has held since 2021.
VanAntwerp will replace Greg Burris, who has served in the role since 2019 and retires June 30. Initially, VanAntwerp will be president-elect of United Way until Burris leaves.
VanAntwerp’s hiring follows a national search that started in January.
“My personal mission and that of UWO align so well — to champion our community’s children and provide pathways out of poverty,” VanAntwerp said in a United Way press release. “I can’t wait to bring my personal and professional experience to this role and to work alongside the incredible board and staff.”
VanAntwerp previously has worked at CoxHealth Foundation, Habitat for Humanity of Springfield, Nashville-based T. J. Martell Foundation and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
David Agee, chair of the United Way of the Ozarks board of directors, described VanAntwerp as “a high-caliber leader, community connector, innovator and nonprofit veteran” in the press release.
Agee is a partner at the Husch Blackwell law firm.
“We are delighted to have found such talent and heart locally,” he said.
Agee also commended Burris for his leadership.
“Greg Burris is an inspiring advocate for UWO and the board is thankful for his vision and the innovative, strategic work he’s accomplished,” he said in the release.
Burris also was quoted in the release: “I am thrilled with Brandi’s selection and look forward to seeing her take United Way of the Ozarks to the next level.”
Burris will continue to oversee Give 5
Burris will become UWO’s part-time executive director of Give 5, a program that introduces Springfield retirees to meaningful community volunteer opportunities.
VanAntwerp is a graduate of Leadership Springfield. She holds a bachelor of music degree from Belmont University in Nashville and an associate of arts degree from Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri.
The United Way of the Ozarks is known for its community campaign, workplace giving and the Day of Caring, the largest one-day volunteer program in Southwest Missouri.
In recent years, UWO has introduced new community engagement programs. The goal of the United Way of the Ozarks is to connect people, resources and ideas to enhance lives across 14 counties.
The press release from United Way did not include the CEO’s starting salary and VanAntwerp declined to disclose the figure.
