United Way taps new leaders to guide Coastal Empire impact

by Shakuria Smith

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - United Way of the Coastal Empire has announced its 2026-27 board of directors, bringing together community leaders from across Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Long counties.

The board members began their terms July 1 and will provide strategic leadership as the nonprofit works to address the needs of individuals and families throughout the five-county region.

Cindy Robinett, a partner at Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, will serve as board chair. She will work with United Way staff, regional advisory groups and other board members to strengthen the organization’s community impact.

“Savannah and the surrounding communities are experiencing incredible momentum, but growth alone does not guarantee that everyone will thrive,” Robinett said. “I’m excited to work alongside our board, staff and community partners to help ensure individuals and families have access to the support and resources they need.”

Cecilia Tran Arango of Thomas & Hutton will serve as campaign chair. Trip Tollison of the Savannah Economic Development Authority will serve as campaign vice chair.

United Way President and CEO Kimberly Waller said the board’s varied experience and community commitment will support the organization’s efforts across the region.

“Their diverse perspectives, expertise and commitment to our community will be invaluable as we work together to address the challenges facing individuals and families across our five-county region,” Waller said.

United Way of the Coastal Empire is a volunteer-driven nonprofit serving Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Long counties. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the community to support its neighbors.

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Executive committee

Board chair: Cindy Robinett, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard
Board vice chair: Jay Wilson, International Paper
Immediate past chair: Cecilia Russo Turner, Cecilia Russo Marketing
Campaign chair: Cecilia Tran Arango, Thomas & Hutton
Campaign vice chair: Trip Tollison, Savannah Economic Development Authority
Treasurer: Ken Rabitsch, Synovus
Secretary: Ryan Chandler, Colonial Group Inc.
Community investments chair: Taffanye Young, City of Savannah
Marketing, volunteers and events chair: Somi Benson-Jaja, Shot by Somi
Race, equity and opportunity chair: Kimberly Ballard-Washington, KBW Legal & HR Consulting
Strategic plan chair: Jennifer Davenport, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Savannah
At-large members: Mark Bennett, Kathryn Downs, Paul Mosley and Jamie McCurry

Incoming directors

Will Johnson, Evans General Contractors
Brian Tieman, HMGMA
Charles Pennington, Georgia Ports Authority
Ken Rabitsch, Synovus
Pastor Charles Roberson, Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship
Moncello Stewart, Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce and Savannah State University
Trip Tollison, Savannah Economic Development Authority