United Way of the Coastal Empire has welcomed a new slate of community leaders to its 2026-27 board of directors, bringing together representatives from businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and community organizations across Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Long counties. Board members began their terms July 1, 2026, and will help guide the organization’s efforts to improve lives and strengthen communities throughout the five-county region.
“We are incredibly grateful to welcome this outstanding group of community leaders to United Way’s board of directors,” said Kimberly Waller, president and CEO of United Way of the Coastal Empire. “Their diverse perspectives, expertise and commitment to our community will be invaluable as we work together to address the challenges facing individuals and families across our five-county region. We’re excited about what we can accomplish together and the opportunity to create lasting, meaningful change throughout the Coastal Empire.”
Cindy Robinett, partner at Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, has been appointed chair of United Way’s board of directors for the 2026-27 term. She will work closely with the board, regional advisory groups and United Way staff to strengthen the organization’s impact across its five-county service area. The board provides strategic leadership and guidance, helping UWCE respond to the most pressing needs facing individuals and families across the Coastal Empire.
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve as board chair during such a transformative time for our region,” said Robinett. “Savannah and the surrounding communities are experiencing incredible momentum, but growth alone does not guarantee that everyone will thrive. I’m excited to work alongside our board, staff and community partners to help ensure individuals and families have access to the support and resources they need. United Way of the Coastal Empire plays a vital role in bringing people together to create great impact, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help advance this work.”
Danny Creasy of Ameris Bank has been appointed as the liaison director for the Liberty County advisory board.
Executive Committee:
Board Chair: Cindy Robinett, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Board Vice Chair: Jay Wilson, International Paper Immediate Past Chair: Cecilia Russo Turner, Cecilia Russo Marketing Campaign Chair: Cecilia Tran Arango, Thomas & Hutton Campaign Vice Chair: Trip Tollison, Savannah Economic Development Authority Treasurer: Ken Rabitsch, Synovus Secretary: Ryan Chandler, Colonial Group Inc.
Community Investments Chair: Taffanye Young, City of Savannah Marketing, Volunteers & Events Chair: Somi Benson-Jaja, Shot by Somi Race, Equity, and Opportunity Chair: Kimberly Ballard- Washington, KBW Legal & HR Consulting Strategic Plan Chair: Jennifer Davenport, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce & Visit Savannah At-Large: Mark Bennett, Gulfstream Aerospace At-Large: Kathryn Downs, Bryan County government At-Large: Paul Mosley, International Longshoremen’s Association, Local 1414 At-Large: Jamie McCurry, Plimsoll Advisors
Incoming Directors
Will Johnson, Evans General Contractors Brian Tieman, HMGMA Charles Pennington, Georgia Ports Authority Ken Rabitsch, Synovus Pastor Charles Roberson, Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship Moncello Stewart, Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce, Savannah State University Trip Tollison, Savannah Economic Development Authority Incoming Appointed Liaison Directors: Agency Executive Council: Jennifer Graham, Shelter from the Rain UWCE Young Leaders: Caitlin Burwinkel, Thomas & Hutton Bryan County Advisory Board: Chris Benson, City of Pembroke Effingham County Advisory Board: Trisha Boyett, Edward Jones Liberty County Advisory Board: Danny Creasy, Ameris Bank
Returning Directors
Kathleen Anderson, marketing consultant David Burkoff, HunterMaclean Judge Lisa Colbert, Chatham County Superior Court Linda Cramer, Chatham County government Stephanie Cutter, Chatham Area Transit Authority Greg Finch, Bouhan Falligant Marsha Fogarty, WTOC Dr. Yancy Ford, Effingham County Schools Catherine Grant, Exper-CARE Chief Lenny Gunther, Savannah Police Department Ben Hart, WJCL David Hart, WSAV Nolan Hennessee, St. Joseph’s/ Candler Tonia Howard-Hall, Savannah- Chatham County Board of Education Sarah Jones, Truist Bill Kelso, Goodwill of Southeast Georgia Bob Klausmeier, Rise and Flow Heath Lloyd, City of Pooler Quentin Marlin, Ellis Painter Attorneys at Law William Mock, Georgia Power Kyle Redner, Gulfstream Aerospace Mark Sprosty, Savannah Economic Development Authority Ansley Threlkeld, attorney Julie Tyre, Memorial Health Steve Walker, Savannah Coca- Cola Bottling Company United Courtney West, West Construction Company Judge Derek White, Chatham County State Court Austin Wright, Left Lane Hospitality