By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
UWCK announces board changes
Board sees one retirement, two new members
uwck dianne call retires
Pictured are United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director Gaila Demel, left, and Dianne Call. Call is resigning from the UWCK board.

It is with a mixture of excitement and sadness that the United Way of Central Kansas is facing changes to its Board of Directors, Executive Director Gaila Demel said Wednesday. 

The first announcement is the resignation of Dianne Call from the board. She has been a board member since 2008. 

“Throughout her years of service, she has been an integral part of our annual Stuff the Bus project,” Demel said. Leading it each year, she has ensured that UWCK’s Community Partners receive the items they need at the conclusion of the event. 

“Her knowledge about United Way, her input, and her phenomenal attitude will be deeply missed by all those who served alongside her,” Demel said.

The Executive Board will also have some changes. Desa Marmie-Behr, Marmie Auto Group, has decided to step down as the president, but will remain on the board. Marmie-Behr has served as Board President since 2017, after serving as vice-president before that. 

“We want to thank Desa for her leadership as the past president of UWCK,” said Becca Maxwell, who is stepping into the presidential role. “She has helped raise awareness and secured donations for the United Way for many years and is still dedicated to making a difference for our organization.” 

Demel said they are looking forward to Maxwell, retail service manager at Sunflower Bank, taking the helm. She has been the secretary of the board since 2019. 

“Becca spearheaded our Crunch Out Obesity program in Ellinwood, has been a key asset with Reality U, and helped with many Workplace Campaigns in her years on the Board.” Demel said. 

“I am so honored to continue to support The United Way of Central Kansas and its important work to mobilize the community to improve education, income and health opportunities,” Maxwell said. “Serving our community is our mission at Sunflower Bank, which is why we partner with organizations to create possibility in the lives we touch and the communities we serve,” 

The board also elected Regan Reif to the role of secretary. Reif has been a board member since 2017, after serving as a campaign co-chair the prior year. Regan has been instrumental in the expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, as well as other UWCK childhood programs. 

“The United Way of Central Kansas exists to advance the common good and the impact that our 22 community partners collectively make to help our neighbors in need is astounding,” Reif said. “I feel fortunate to be a part of an organization that champions making a positive difference in the lives of so many.” “United Way of Central Kansas has been so fortunate to have passionate community leaders volunteer for our Board and our impact projects,” Demel said. “Whether our volunteers leave our agency or just adjust their responsibilities, it is heartwarming they still have a special place in their heart for the work we do.”  

 

Becca Maxwell
Becca Maxwell
Regan Reif
Regan Reif