MOUNT VERNON — Brit Eaton was unanimously selected as the next United Way of Knox County Executive Director, according to a press release issued Monday by the organization’s Board of Directors.
Eaton will officially begin her role on Sept. 28, as United Way of Knox County marks its 75th anniversary serving the community.
“I’m not here to hit the ground running — I’m here to hit the ground stable, and to build something sustainable for the long term,” Eaton said. “Knox County has given my family so much over the past two decades, and I’m honored for the chance to give back in this way, especially as we celebrate 75 years of this organization’s work in our community.”
Following an extensive search process, the Board identified Eaton’s combination of strategic leadership, communications expertise, and long-standing commitment to the Knox County community as key strengths for the role.
“Eaton brings more than two decades of marketing, brand strategy, and communications experience to the role, spanning corporate, nonprofit, and start-up environments,” the board stated in a press release. “Her work has always centered on helping organizations find the words to say to move people to action.
“Since 2017, she has run an independent consulting practice serving higher education institutions, healthcare systems, financial services organizations, and mission-driven nonprofits, developing strategic communications and fundraising campaigns that connect an organization’s mission to real community support.
“She has also taught as an adjunct professor at Mount Vernon Nazarene University for 18 years. Eaton is stepping away from her consulting practice to bring that expertise in-house full-time, trading years of advising from the edges for the chance to lead from the heart of a community she already calls home.”
A three-time published author, Eaton brings a deep commitment to advocacy and community engagement, having worked at both the local and national level on issues including addiction recovery, mental health, and women in leadership.
“That same trust-building spirit shows up in her work as a trusted coach and spiritual director, and it’s what she’ll bring to the organization’s donors, partner agencies, and the broader Knox County community,” the board stated.
Eaton lives in Mount Vernon with her husband, Mike, and their daughter, Bella. The family has called Knox County home for more than 20 years. The Eatons are avid outdoor enthusiasts and lifelong musicians.
Eaton and her husband are also die-hard Mount Vernon Yellow Jackets swim parents, who can be found at every meet decked out in “Team Bella” swag.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Brit to the team,” said Todd Taylor, Board Chair of United Way of Knox County. “Her extensive experience in communications and her deep-rooted commitment to this community make her the ideal leader to guide us forward.
“As we celebrate 75 years, the United Way remains as vital as ever in ensuring the health, education, and financial stability of Knox County residents, and I am confident that Brit’s leadership will help us continue to build a stronger community for everyone.”
Eaton steps into the role at a pivotal time for the organization. Rather than moving quickly, she plans to spend her early months focused on the fundamentals: strong systems, clear communication, and trusted relationships that support long-term growth for United Way of Knox County as it enters its next 75 years.
Eaton succeeds outgoing Executive Director Katie Ellis. United Way of Knox County plans to share more in the weeks ahead about its priorities for the year, including its 75th-anniversary campaign.
United Way of Knox County has served the community since 1951, funding local programs and partner agencies focused on education, health, and financial stability. To learn more about United Way of Knox County, its partner agencies, and upcoming 75th-anniversary initiatives, visit www.uwayknox.org.