Two longtime leaders of Berks County philanthropic organizations will retire in 2027, as The Wyomissing Foundation and United Way of Berks County prepare for a planned leadership transition.
The organizations announced that Pat Giles, president of The Wyomissing Foundation, will retire effective May 2027, while Tammy White, president of United Way of Berks County, will retire effective June 2027 after a 37-year career with the organization.
Giles has led The Wyomissing Foundation since 2017 after previously serving as senior vice president of United Way of Berks County for 17 years. During her tenure with the foundation, she helped guide its growth while advancing its focus on strategic philanthropy, community partnerships and stewardship. The announcement comes as The Wyomissing Foundation marks its 100th anniversary.
“It has been a privilege to serve The Wyomissing Foundation and the Berks County community,” Giles said. “I am deeply grateful to the Board of Trustees, our partners, and the many organizations and individuals who work every day to strengthen our community. The Foundation’s future is bright as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, and I look forward to supporting a smooth and successful transition.”
White’s retirement will conclude nearly four decades with United Way of Berks County, including 18 years as president. During that time, the organization expanded its community impact initiatives, strengthened partnerships throughout the county, launched programs focused on early literacy and educational success, and responded to community needs during times of crisis.
“Serving United Way and this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” White said. “I have had the opportunity to work alongside extraordinary volunteers, donors, agency partners, board members, and staff who care deeply about Berks County. Together, we have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families, and I am incredibly proud of what has been accomplished.”
The Wyomissing Foundation Board of Trustees has appointed White to succeed Giles as president beginning in June 2027.
Kathleen Herbein, chair of The Wyomissing Foundation Board of Trustees, said Giles helped position the organization for continued success and praised White’s qualifications for the role.
“Pat has provided exceptional leadership to The Wyomissing Foundation and has been instrumental in positioning the organization for continued success,” Herbein said. “At the same time, Tammy’s decades of community leadership, partnership building, and commitment to improving lives make her uniquely qualified to lead the Foundation into its next chapter. We are grateful to both leaders for their service and stewardship.”
United Way Board Chair Pete Connors credited White with strengthening the organization and building a foundation for future success.
“Tammy’s impact on United Way and Berks County has been extraordinary,” Connors said. “She has strengthened the organization, built a talented leadership team, advanced innovative community initiatives, and helped position United Way for long-term success. We are grateful for her leadership, and we are confident in the strong foundation she leaves for the future.”
United Way’s Board of Directors will begin a search process for the organization’s next president. Leaders from both organizations said succession planning has been underway for several years and has helped ensure organizational stability ahead of the transition.
The organizations noted their long history of collaboration in addressing community needs, supporting nonprofit organizations and creating opportunities for Berks County residents.
Over the next year, The Wyomissing Foundation and United Way of Berks County said they will work together to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
“These transitions represent not an ending, but a continuation of service,” Herbein and Connors said in a joint statement. “Both organizations remain strong, both leaders leave remarkable legacies, and both organizations are well-positioned to continue serving Berks County for generations to come.”
