United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Named New CEO
The nonprofit transition will impact strategy and leadership for major regional community initiatives.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People
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United Way of Metropolitan Dallas has appointed Janelle Anderson as its new president and CEO, effective November 1. This change follows the departure of Jennifer Sampson, who led the organization for 15 years.
Why it matters
Leadership shifts at major regional nonprofits often signal changes in strategic priorities and partnership models for local operators. The organization currently manages an $800 million Greater Than Campaign that businesses throughout North Texas contribute to.
The outgoing CEO served a 15-year term within a 25-year total tenure at the organization. The nonprofit is currently navigating an $800 million fundraising goal for its Greater Than Campaign.
The players
Janelle Anderson
Incoming president and CEO with a professional background in executive roles at American Airlines and PepsiCo.
Jennifer Sampson
Outgoing CEO who served 15 years in the role and 25 years total at the organization.
Susan Hoff
Newly named executive vice president and chief strategy and impact officer with a 17-year tenure at the nonprofit.
The Stephens Greth Foundation
A philanthropic organization that will be led by Jennifer Sampson beginning in October.
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
A major Dallas-based nonprofit organization currently managing an $800 million regional fundraising campaign.
The details
Janelle Anderson will transition into the leadership role after serving in executive capacities at American Airlines and PepsiCo. Simultaneously, Susan Hoff, a 17-year veteran of the United Way, has been elevated to executive vice president and chief strategy and impact officer. These appointments occur as the organization continues its long-term work across the North Texas region.
Timeline
Susan Hoff joined the United Way in 2009.
Jennifer Sampson becomes CEO of The Stephens Greth Foundation on Oct. 1, 2026.
Janelle Anderson begins her role at United Way on Nov. 1, 2026.
Market Landscape
The leadership change marks a conclusion to the 15-year tenure of Jennifer Sampson, which established a long-running baseline for regional corporate-nonprofit partnerships. This shift mirrors typical succession planning cycles seen in large regional charitable institutions.
Business operators engaged in corporate social responsibility initiatives should prepare for potential shifts in partnership outreach as new leadership assumes control. Review current donation commitments and engagement touchpoints with the organization ahead of the November 1 transition.
The takeaway
Large nonprofits often undergo significant strategic realignments during CEO successions. Owners should monitor upcoming communications from the new leadership team to identify changes in regional funding priorities or community impact goals.
What happens next
Jennifer Sampson will assume her new role as CEO of The Stephens Greth Foundation on Oct. 1, 2026. Janelle Anderson will formally begin her duties at United Way on Nov. 1, 2026.
Further reading
For more on executive transitions in the region, visit People.
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