United Way of Tompkins County’s Board Chair, Scott Keenan, announces the retirement of UWTC President & CEO, James Brown, effective August 5, 2022. Brown’s leadership of the organization began in 1997 when he arrived in Ithaca to fill the position with a previous 18 years of service throughout the United Way Worldwide network. “We thank James for his commitment to the United Way of Tompkins County. He has forged strong connections and helped elevate United Way to becoming a recognized community partner for all things Tompkins County.”
James Brown worked on 44 UW campaigns over the past 43 years in four unique communities. He began his UW career in his hometown of St. Louis, then went on to hold leadership positions at the United Ways of Houston and Pikes Peak before joining United Way of Tompkins County as interim CEO in September 1997. In April 1998, he was named President & CEO of UWTC.
Over his 25 years in Tompkins County, UWTC has raised over $47 million and leveraged financial and other resources to make an even greater impact on a wide and diverse range of people. Programs such as Youth and Philanthropy, Summers of Service, Student United Ways, Hunger & Food Security Initiatives, and Urgent Rx were conceived and developed under his leadership. These efforts, and more, have changed UWTC foundationally, and strengthened local lives and communities.
Brown shared, “The six-month interim position I accepted here evolved, grew, and has now reached its end. I appreciate and value the work and opportunity to be a part of it.”
He continues to serve the Tompkins County community with his involvement on the boards of local organizations, including Cayuga Health System and the Tompkins Charitable Gift Fund.
