United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) has selected Chrystal Armstrong Brown as president and chief executive officer (CEO) following a committee-led, national search to fill the position.
Armstrong Brown had served as the organization’s interim CEO since November 2024, adding those duties to the existing role of chief impact officer that she’s held since joining UWGK in April 2023.
Jim LaPinska, UWGK board chair and member of the CEO search committee, said Armstrong Brown distinguished herself during the search in multiple ways, including proven results in her interim CEO role; progress toward the 2025 fundraising campaign; the trust she’s built through years of relationships and leadership; financial and operational expertise, with successful budget leadership during uncertainty; and her vision and successful execution of initiatives already underway with bold goals for the areas of early care and education, economic mobility and healthy communities, in alignment with the organization’s impact pillars.
“Among a long list of impressive candidates, none could match Chrystal’s combination of vision, trust, track record and fit for UWGK’s future,” LaPinska said. “She is a galvanizer who blends operational discipline with visionary leadership, ensuring sustainability while casting a clear direction for growth. We did the work of reviewing the best nonprofit leaders in the country in an exhaustive search, and I believe with all confidence that she is the right leader for this moment in UWGK’s 103-year history.”
Since May, the CEO search committee, led by Joe Landsman, vetted 221 identified prospects across 27 states serving in roles at other United Way organizations, community foundations and complex place-based nonprofits focused on a geographic area. That list was culled to 96 and
then five for second-round interviews. At the end of the review process, two finalists were invited for in-person sessions. On Oct. 16, the board of directors unanimously confirmed the committee’s recommendation of Armstrong Brown.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving this community and United Way of Greater Knoxville as president and CEO,” Armstrong Brown said. “Over the past two years, I’ve witnessed the remarkable power of compassion, collaboration, agility and innovation that defines this organization and makes this community so special. United Way has always been a catalyst for lasting change, and I’m ready to work alongside our incredible staff, board, partners and supporters to build on that proud legacy – strengthening the fabric of our community, stewarding and maximizing resources, driving measurable impact and charting a bold, inspiring path forward. Our mission is personal to me, and I’m excited about what’s possible when we work together to ensure every person in our region has the opportunity to thrive.”
Armstrong Brown earned a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in English rhetoric and writing and completed the coursework toward a Master of Arts in English from the University of Tennessee. She earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Johnson University. Before joining UWGK, she was vice president of program development at Emerald Youth Foundation and director of education and community impact at United Way of Southwest Virginia. She has more than 20 years of professional experience in nonprofits, educational institutions and federal programs.
Originally from Columbia, Tennessee, Armstrong Brown also is a nationally published author and speaker. She was ordained in pastoral ministry through Overcoming Believers Church and currently serves on the leadership team for Crossings Church in Knoxville. A 2025 graduate of Leadership Knoxville, Armstrong Brown was recently recognized by VIP Knoxville magazine as one of the community’s “50 Under 50.” Her community leadership includes board and council service with United Ways of Tennessee, the Sycamore Institute and 4 Market Square and the Knoxville Fellows. Her favorite role is “Mommy” to her 8-year-old daughter, Keris.
About United Way of Greater Knoxville
United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) unites people and resources to strengthen communities. As part of United Way Worldwide, the largest charitable organization in the world, UWGK is dedicated to creating a community where all neighbors can thrive.
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Lauren Miller
865-599-4050
lmiller@moxcar.com