[TOLEDO, Ohio] – United Way of Greater Toledo (UWGT) and its Board of Directors is pleased to announce Wendy Pestrue as the organization’s seventh president and CEO in its 100 years of service to the community.

“I’m honored to join United Way of Greater Toledo as it celebrates a century of service. The warmth and joy of this community is truly inspiring and I look forward to seeing all we can accomplish together,” Pestrue said.

Pestrue, a Texas native, received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and Juris Doctorate from Capital University Law School in Columbus, OH. She brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience, with expertise in program development and fundraising at notable institutions, such as The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Temple University College of Medicine, Defiance College and Bon Secours Health System.

“Over the course of our search, over 200 CEO prospects were engaged in conversation for this position. It is apparent why someone like Wendy rose to the top. She is a visionary with an abundance of experience. I am very confident in Wendy’s ability to lead United Way of Greater Toledo,” said Tom Waggoner, chair, UWGT Board of Directors.

Pestrue’s areas of specialty include public affairs, policy oversight, fundraising, communications and marketing. She has completed several significant capital campaigns, secured individual gifts of up to $4 million and been involved in multi-million dollar fundraising efforts.

An Executive Search Committee, composed of a diverse group of community volunteers, engaged in a robust process which included interviews, presentations and leadership assessments to identify the best prospective candidates. BeecherHill, a professional executive recruitment firm, assisted in the process to recruit local and national candidates. Costs associated with their service were generously funded by an anonymous gift to UWGT.

Executive Search Committee Co-Chairs Dawn Buskey of ProMedica and Denny Johnson, retired CEO of Brooks Insurance, carried their committee’s recommendation of Pestrue to the UWGT Board of Directors, who approved her for the role of President and CEO at their January 17 meeting.

Pestrue currently resides in Ann Arbor with her husband, Justin, and will soon relocate to the Toledo area. Details of an official start date will soon be announced.

ABOUT
United Way of Greater Toledo, serving Lucas, Wood and Ottawa counties, unites the caring power of people to improve lives. Together, we’re on a mission to change lives forever in our community by investing in programs focused on education, financial stability, and healthy lifestyles. We tackle the tough problems in these areas by funding and partnering with the most effective local organizations who create real opportunities and get results. LIVE UNITED by visiting www.unitedwaytoledo.org.

Contact:
Lucas Stall
Communications Specialist
Office: 419-254-4652
Mobile: 765-977-3712
lucas.stall@unitedwaytoledo.org