Heart of Arkansas United Way member agencies, board members and others gathered at Trapnall Hall the evening of Feb. 28 for a chance to get to know the organization's new president and chief executive officer, Lynn Pharr. She brought some 25 years of United Way experience with her when she took the job in January.
The Ozark native's most recent post was as vice president and chief development officer at United Way of the Plains in Wichita, Kan. Before that, she worked for United Ways in Fort Worth and Richmond, Va., and as national director of crisis preparedness, response and recovery at United Way Worldwide in Alexandria, Va. A biography provided by her new employer states that Pharr also served as president of several small United Ways in the coastal region of North Carolina and she was a dedicated volunteer for United Way before joining as a staff member.
She replaces former president and CEO John Nazzaro, who retired. Pharr's hiring came following a national search.
"I'm excited. I love a challenge," Pharr said at the reception. She was joined by colleagues Emmett McNeil and Denver Landers. The heads of the United Way's member agencies lined up to shake Pharr's hand and introduce themselves. Guests snacked on heavy hors d'oeuvres and listened to a pianist playing yesteryear hits like "Killing Me Softly" and Willie Nelson's "Crazy." They also had the opportunity to write down their dining recommendations and advice on other fun activities for Pharr to try.
-- Story and photos by Cyd King
High Profile on 03/12/2017