United Way Northern New Mexico Announces Executive Director Transition
Following its Donor Appreciation Dinner, United Way Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) announced that its Board of Directors has 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.
Cindy Padilla, Outgoing Executive Director, Michelle Wilde, UWNNM Board Chair, Donna Milanovich, Newly Appointed Executive Director
Donna Milanovich
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 of Northern New Mexico and to the communities we serve,” said Michelle Wilde, Board Chair of UWNNM. “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.”
Milanovich describes herself as “a New Mexican by choice” and is deeply committed to supporting nonprofits, empowering communities, and investing in young people. She said she is honored to step into the role and looks forward to working with the Board, staff, partners, donors, and community members to continue strengthening United Way’s impact.
As UWNNM welcomes Milanovich into this new role, the Board also expressed deep appreciation to Cindy Padilla for her leadership and service. Padilla first became involved with United Way Northern New Mexico in 2019 and has served with dedication as Executive Director. UWNNM is grateful for the care, commitment, and leadership she has brought to the organization.
The transition will take place over the coming weeks, with Milanovich and Padilla working together to support continuity and ensure a strong handoff for the organization, its partners, and the community. Milanovich will assume full leadership on 1 June 2026.
United Way Northern New Mexico enters this next chapter with gratitude, stability, and a continued commitment to serving Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties.
About United Way Northern New Mexico
United Way Northern New Mexico serves Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties by strengthening nonprofits, supporting community partnerships, investing in youth and families, and helping connect resources to local needs. Through grantmaking, convening, fundraising, Collective Impact work, and Resource Hub support, UWNNM works with donors, partners, and community members to build a stronger Northern New Mexico.