It is with profound sadness that we share that Sean Ross - our colleague, friend and vice president of resource development, passed away at the age of 38 on Tuesday, August 4. Sean was a dynamic leader and was passionate in his role at United Way as a change-maker for the Central Kentucky community. His energy, passion and uplifting spirit inspired us every day. He could diffuse any tense moment by drawing attention to his Pittsburgh accent or love and knowledge of sports, and he reminded us each day that he loved being a part of a winning team. His loss will be felt deeply throughout our entire organization and community.
Before joining the UWBG team earlier this year, Ross served as the Director of Major Gifts at Kentucky State University, and previously worked in fundraising and development at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. Prior to entering a fundraising career, he served in a variety of coaching and recruitment rolls for the Wittenberg football program and was a part of five NCAC championship teams in nine seasons. A native of Pennsylvania, Ross resided in Lexington, KY since 2018. He was a graduate of Waynesburg University, PA, and completed his Master's in Education from Westminster College, PA. He was a recent graduate of the 2019-2020 Leadership Central Kentucky class. Please join Sean's family and friends, and our team in grieving, celebrating and remembering his life. Arrangements are pending in Pennsylvania and will be announced at a later date.