Dallas Nonprofit CEO Transitions to Private Foundation
Jennifer Sampson will lead the $2 billion Stephens Greth Foundation following 15 years as CEO of United Way of Dallas.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Philanthropy
Live Poll
Is a long tenure for nonprofit leadership beneficial for the success of local charitable organizations?
Jennifer Sampson is stepping down from her role as CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas after leading the organization for 15 years. She will transition to the CEO position at the newly created, $2 billion Stephens Greth Foundation at the end of September 2026.
Why it matters
The move marks a leadership change for one of Dallas's primary charitable engines, which reported $68.2 million in revenue for the fiscal year ending in June. The foundation, established in 2024, represents a significant new philanthropic entity for the region.
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas recorded $68.2 million in revenue for the fiscal year ending in June, supported by over 1,400 donors in the Tocqueville Society who contribute at least $10,000 annually. The Stephens Greth Foundation arrives with a $2 billion endowment.
The players
Jennifer Sampson
An experienced nonprofit executive who led United Way of Metropolitan Dallas for 15 years.
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
A major Dallas-based nonprofit organization with over a century of regional operations.
The Stephens Greth Foundation
A newly established private foundation with a $2 billion endowment.
The details
Sampson served 25 total years in leadership roles at United Way before deciding to move to the private foundation sector. The Stephens Greth Foundation, created in 2024 following a $26 billion sale of an oil company, has already begun philanthropic activity with a $15.5 million donation to the local United Way. A search committee is currently interviewing candidates to replace Sampson at the nonprofit.
Timeline
September 2026 marks the end of Sampson's leadership tenure at United Way.
June 2026 served as the close of the United Way's most recent fiscal year.
Market Landscape
The transition follows the 2024 establishment of The Stephens Greth Foundation, signaling the entity's move toward active management. It reflects the broader trend of major regional private foundations influencing the capital allocation strategies of legacy nonprofits.
Business operators should monitor the search for new nonprofit leadership, as changes in executive direction often shift institutional funding priorities and local corporate partnership strategies. Evaluate potential changes in alignment between your corporate giving goals and new foundation mandates.
The takeaway
Leadership turnover at major regional nonprofits can signal shifts in local philanthropic focus and resource allocation. Monitor updates from the United Way board regarding the naming of a successor to ensure continuity in existing partnerships.
Further reading
For more on the regional charitable sector, see our coverage of Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dallas Morning News.
Live Poll
Is a long tenure for nonprofit leadership beneficial for the success of local charitable organizations?
