Burke County United Way Announces New Executive Director

The Burke County United Way board of directors is pleased to announce Maureen “Mo” Schwind as the agency’s new executive director. Schwind has been serving as interim executive director since October 2018.

“We are so excited to welcome “Mo” as our new executive director,” said David Rust, Burke County United Way board chair. “She brings with her not only a knowledge of the community, but also a passion for the people of Burke County and a true understanding of the United Way mission.”

Schwind is no stranger to Burke County United Way. She has 24 years of volunteer experience with the agency, including as campaign coordinator, board chair, budget and allocations chair, and special committee’s chair such as Toast of the Town.

“I am a proud, lifelong Burke County resident,” Schwind said. “I embrace continued opportunities to be an active advocate for our community, engaging with others to collectively and collaboratively address our community’s needs. I am excited about this new role to serve the community and United Way as the executive director.”

Schwind retired with more than 31 years of combined service from Burke County government and Western Piedmont Community College. Schwind is a graduate of Western Piedmont Community College and has a bachelor’s from UNC-Chapel Hill, a master’s from Western Carolina University, an education specialist degree from Appalachian State University and an academic advising graduate certificate from Kansas State University.

She is an active Rotarian with Burke Sunrise Rotary, having served as president. She is a 1+ Paul Harris Fellow. She is a past recipient of the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award, the Rotary Star and United Way Employee Campaign Coordinator of the Year.

Schwind makes her home with her husband, Tracy Yancey, also a lifelong resident of Burke County. Her father, siblings, and many nieces and nephews also live locally. She enjoys spending time in the company of friends and family gardening, and travel.

Schwind replaces former Burke County United Way Executive Director Chasity Poteat Rice, who announced her resignation in August to focus on her family and explore interests in nutrition and providing healthy meals to communities.

The Burke County United Way board also announces the hiring of Abigail Taylor as the agency’s new marketing and administrative professional. Taylor brings with her more than six years of marketing, video, production and project management experience. She is a performer, singer, writer, craft beer enthusiast and leads the group Morganton Improv.

“I am thrilled to join the Burke United Way team and to be a part of an important organization that serves its community,” Taylor said.