Local nonprofit leader elevated to national role

TAMPA — The United Way, the world’s largest privately funded nonprofit, has tapped a Gulf Coast leader to become head of its entire U.S. operation.

Effective July 31, Suzanne McCormick, who currently serves as president and CEO of United Way Suncoast, will become U.S. president of United Way Worldwide and oversee nearly 1,200 local and state United Way chapters across the country.

McCormick, who has led Tampa-based United Way Suncoast for five years, succeeds Mary Sellers, who will return to Des Moines, Iowa, after serving in the role since 2017, according to a statement. 

“Suzanne has been an outstanding leader within the Suncoast region and within United Way nationally,” states Brian Gallagher, president and CEO of United Way Worldwide, in the press release. “She is an outstanding strategic thinker, communicator and organization leader. We look forward to her joining the UWW organization.” 

Carrie Zeiss, Unitd Way Suncoast’s chief strategy and operating officer, will serve as interim CEO while a national search is conducted for McCormick’s successor.

“Suzanne has done a great job for United Way Suncoast in the five years she has been with us,” states Dan Vigne, United Way Suncoast board chairman, in the release. “We are excited to see her receive this opportunity to make her mark in an even larger, national role. We are very proud of the work she has done, and she leaves a strong organization in place as she moves ahead.”