United Way's new director is looking forward to doing his job

August 23, 2007|By TAMELA BAKER

HAGERSTOWN - Dan Greenwald spent his first day on the job Wednesday as many new hires do: "Trying to jump in headfirst without being too overwhelmed," he said.

Greenwald is the new executive director of the United Way of Washington County. He replaces Dale Bannon, who left the post at the end of June to become director of system development for Washington County Public Schools.

A former national account manager for Chicago-based Chas. Levy Circulating Co., Greenwald joins the United Way just in time for this year's United Way campaign kickoff, scheduled for Aug. 31 at Municipal Stadium during the Hagerstown Suns game against the Lakewood Blueclaws.

That's a big assignment to dive into, but Greenwald said he's "really looking forward" to the job, adding that he has "a lot of energy and a lot of enthusiasm" to offer.

Greenwald sees the position as a good fit. While his former position allowed him to be based in Hagerstown, he found he was spending more and more time traveling - and less time with his family.

"I needed to make a life decision," he said.

When the United Way position opened, he spent a lot of time talking to people in the community about it, and saw it as a means to "really make a positive contribution" to the community where he grew up.

"I've always considered myself somewhat activist-oriented," Greenwald said.

Greenwald already has been involved in fundraising efforts for nonprofits in Washington County as a volunteer. He co-chairs "Reaching for the Moon" for Breast Cancer Awareness-Cumberland Valley, and is a past member of the Peloton Project of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, according to the United Way release. Greenwald also is involved in the fundraising activities for B'nai Abraham Synagogue, and is a past member of the board of Food Resources Inc.

Greenwald earned his bachelor of science degree in economics/management with a minor in history from Ithaca (N.Y.) College, and earned his master's degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Mount St. Mary's College in Emmitsburg, Md.

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