Join us in congratulating Lynne Popash on her retirement!
Those of you who attended Celebrate to Elevate on April 29 heard firsthand that Lynne Popash, director of Women United, will retire on June 5 from United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania after nearly a decade of service. At the event, Linda Jones offered a heartfelt tribute to Lynne and her singular ability to forge authentic connections among Women United members, connections which, in many cases, extend far beyond our work at United Way. Please take a moment to read Linda’s remarks about Lynne, below, and join us in thanking Lynne for all she has done to improve the lives of women and children in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Remarks by Linda Jones in honor of Lynne Popash and her retirement
As we gather tonight to celebrate the power of generosity and community, I’d like to take a moment to recognize someone who has embodied both in an extraordinary way.
On June 5, 2026, we will mark the retirement of Lynne Popash, who has served as our director of Women United for nearly a decade. While titles can capture roles, they rarely capture impact, and Lynne’s impact has been deeply meaningful.
Many of you know Lynne as the “ultimate connector,” and that’s a title she has earned many times over. She has a remarkable gift: seeing not just who people are, but how they might uplift one another. Time and again, she has brought women together, women with shared goals, shared passions and shared purpose, and from those introductions have grown businesses, partnerships, friendships and lifelong support networks.
Lynne didn’t just help build a membership program; she built a community. One rooted in trust, generosity, and the belief that when we come together, we all rise.
Her work has strengthened Women United by bringing donors closer to the mission, building genuine relationships, deepening understanding of impact and fostering lasting support. Lynne helped welcome new businesses, entrepreneurs and retirees into Women United, and made sure everyone felt connected not just to each other, but to United Way’s mission. And she has done it with warmth, humility and a genuine joy in seeing others succeed.
Lynne, your legacy is not only in what you’ve accomplished, but in the connections that will continue to flourish long after your retirement. The relationships you’ve sparked, the confidence you’ve nurtured, and the community you’ve shaped will carry forward your spirit of collaboration for years to come.
On behalf of all of us at United Way and the many Women United members you have impacted, thank you. Thank you for your vision, your leadership and your unwavering belief in the power of connection.
Please join me in celebrating Lynne Popash and wishing her all the very best in this next chapter.
Congratulations, Lynne, and happy retirement.
Sincerely,
Linda Jones, EVP and Chief Development Officer