WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – United Way of Whitewater Valley has named Katie Wayt as its new executive director, effective Aug. 3.

Wayt brings nearly a decade of leadership experience in program development, organizational operations and partnership building to the role. Most recently, she led Indiana University Online's Supplemental Instruction program, where she worked with faculty and student mentors to expand academic support services.

As executive director, Wayt will oversee the organization's efforts to strengthen partnerships, expand local philanthropy and coordinate resources to address community needs in Wayne and Union counties. Her leadership will focus on collaboration among nonprofit organizations, businesses, government agencies and residents to address shared priorities.

She also aims to increase participation in local philanthropy by encouraging financial giving, volunteerism and community involvement.

Wayt and her husband, Bryan, have lived in Richmond for 26 years, where they raised their three children. According to United Way, those longstanding ties reinforce her commitment to serving Wayne and Union counties.