Northwest Montana United Way welcomed a new executive director on Monday, according to a press release.

Stepping into the new role is Roxanna Parker from Missouri, who has worked in the nonprofit arena for more than 15 years. Most recently, Parker was the director for housing initiatives for Compass Health Network, a nonprofit health-care organization that provides a full continuum of behavioral health services and more.

“Roxanna is well qualified for this position, bringing experience in many leadership roles and community projects, including, but not limited to chief financial officer and director roles. Her passion and commitment to supporting community needs along with her business acumen provide the required essentials to leading the NW MT United Way,” the press release stated.

Parker will work in a part-time capacity until April 1, at which time she will transition to a full-time position. According to the press release, the United Way board is very pleased with Parker and is looking forward to all that she will bring to the table.

“Roxanna’s extensive nonprofit leadership background and her experience in fundraising and campaigns align with the United Way’s current needs,” said Michele Paine, chairperson of the United Way board. “The greater United Way community looks forward to new opportunities as we build our vision to help the community’s social service needs.”

Paker is stepping into her new role at a challenging time for the organization.

About two months ago, former Executive Director Sherry Stevens stepped down from the position after more than 30 years. Her departure came as allegations of financial mismanagement mounted among other concerns related to her leadership at the organization and an alleged lack of transparency with the community in recent years. These factors, combined with the organization being in the midst of its second lawsuit in less than two years under Stevens’ guidance, have created a trust barrier between United Way and the counties it serves.

In a recent interview, Carol Nelson, former chairperson of the United Way board, said improvements have already been made in recent months. She said among other things, special focus has been brought to maintaining the presence and significance of the Gateway Community Center in Kalispell — a hub for nonprofit entities in the valley that is considered United Way’s legacy project and was started by Stevens.

Various agencies with longstanding relationships with United Way have echoed Nelson’s comments saying the board and others have made great strides to repair the organization’s reputation.

Reporter Kianna Gardner may be reached at 758-4407 or [email protected].