Dear Friends of Oshkosh Area United Way,
As Oshkosh Area United Way continues to build momentum in our work and partnerships, I want to share an important update about
the organization’s next chapter. After thoughtful conversations with my family, colleagues, and our Board of Directors, I have made the personal decision to retire from my role as President and CEO, effective January 5, 2026.
I made the decision after a great deal of reflection. Knowing the organization is well positioned for the future and supported by an incredible team and a strong board makes this decision feel like the right one, at the right time. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and finally giving attention to personal projects I’ve long set aside. I’m deeply grateful for the trust and partnership of my team members, board of directors, donors, volunteers, community partners, and the meaningful work that has made this chapter so fulfilling. I am committed to doing everything possible to ensure a smooth transition.
Over the past three and a half years, I have been proud to work closely with staff, partners, and volunteers to strengthen collaboration and better align our impact with the community’s greatest needs. That progress has been a collective effort, and I know it will continue with the same dedication and care.
With the full support of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to share that Heidi Thomas, our Community Impact Manager, will become Oshkosh Area United Way’s next President and CEO on January 5, 2026. Heidi’s leadership in shaping our Community Impact Strategy made her a natural fit for this role. Her leadership has been essential to our organization’s evolution.
Drawing on her experience leading change and managing diverse teams, she has helped modernize how we approach community impact and will continue to evolve United Way’s role as an advocate, connector, problem-solver, and mobilizer to maximize lasting impact in southern Winnebago County. The Board and I share confidence in the direction she will bring in this next chapter.
To support continuity, I will stay on part-time for the next few months to work with Heidi and our team to ensure an intentional and seamless transition.
Thank you to our Board, staff, partners, and community members for your dedication to this work. Leading this organization has been an honor, and I am confident that under Heidi’s leadership, Oshkosh Area United Way will continue to strengthen connections and respond to the needs of southern Winnebago County.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve—and for the shared commitment to building a community where every person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
With gratitude,
Beth Oswald
President and CEO
Oshkosh Area United Way