LOS ALAMOS — Following its Donor Appreciation Dinner, United Way Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) announced that its Board of Directors unanimously voted to appoint Donna Milanovich as the organization’s next executive director. Milanovich will step into the role as part of a planned leadership transition with current Executive Director Cindy Padilla.
Milanovich is known to many in the community through her nearly three years of service with UWNNM as director of Corporate and Community Engagement. During that time, she has been part of the organization’s leadership team, participated closely in board and financial review meetings, helped secure important funding, strengthened foundation and community relationships, and worked with the team to develop programs that support nonprofits, youth, and families across Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties.
She also brings significant nonprofit leadership experience from prior roles, including service as executive director of the Chicago Philharmonic. Milanovich combines organizational management experience, fundraising and grant-writing success, program development, and a deep commitment to community partnership.
“Donna is deeply committed to the mission of United Way Northern New Mexico and to the communities we serve,” Michelle Wilde, Board Chair of UWNNM said. “Her leadership experience, knowledge of the organization, and strong relationships with partners, donors, and funders position her well to guide UWNNM into its next chapter.”
The transition will take place over the coming weeks, with Milanovich and Padilla working together to support continuity and ensure a strong hand-off for the organization, its partners, and the community. Milanovich will assume full leadership on June 1.