The United Way of Southeast Missouri announced Monday that Nancy Jernigan, who has served as its executive director since 1995, no longer works for the organization.

United Way's board of directors and Jernigan mutually agreed the change was in the best interest of the organization, according to a news release issued Monday afternoon.

When asked whether the decision was made by the board or Jernigan, board president Kevin Greaser said he would let the news release "stand for what it says."

"It says to me that at any organization like this, sometimes change at the top will result in a reinvigoration or a new focus," he said. "I think Nancy felt the same way. We both came to that same conclusion. It was just time for new leadership."

Greaser added that Jernigan is supportive of United Way.

"We appreciate the years of service that she had," he said. "It'll be up to her if she determines that she wants to support, volunteer or serve in any capacity. United Way touches a lot of agencies, so there's an awful lot of ways for an individual to become involved. Knowing Nancy the way I know Nancy, she'll be continuing to look for ways to be involved in the community."

In the news release, Jernigan said: "It's been a privilege and a blessing to work for United Way and the community. As with any organization that has such an impact on a community, sometimes a change is needed to continue to move forward. In the same sense, I have given my life to this cause, and am humbled by the results we have shown, but I also need a change to reinvigorate my passions. After 20 years of dedication, I am ready to pass the torch to the next leader."

Attempts to contact Jernigan for additional comment Monday were unsuccessful.

Greaser said a search committee is being formed to select the United Way's next executive director.

klamb@semissourian.com

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