Kierston Hobaugh

BUTLER TWP — The interim executive director of the United Way of Butler County has been made the executive director.

The United Way board Thursday morning voted to make Kierston Hobaugh the executive director. She was given a 1-year contract effective through June 2016.

“I’m very much looking forward to the challenges the position brings,” Hobaugh, 34, said.

She said she wants to see the United Way’s campaign increase and to continue to see businesses and nonprofits work together.

Hobaugh was made the interim executive director in December after Leslie Osche resigned from the position to run as a Republican candidate for county commissioner.

Before this, Hobaugh was the director for results and performance at the United Way. Before that, she was a third-grade teacher in the Beaver School District.

Josh Fye, chairman of the board, said Hobaugh jumped right into her role as interim executive director, going out and forming relationships with donors. He said after the initial transition it was clear she was the right person to lead the United Way.

“Kierston’s done an excellent job in transitioning into the leadership role in the United Way office,” Fye said.

Hobaugh earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from Ohio University in 2003 and got a master’s degree in early childhood and elementary education from Duquesne University in 2008.

She lives in Franklin Township, Beaver County, with her husband and two children.

The United Way has an annual campaign goal of $1.425 million this year. The organization’s primary focus is on education, financial stability and health initiatives within the community. It partners with about 20 agencies in the county.