MARSHALL — United Way of Southwest Minnesota announced that CEO Meg Louwagie will be stepping down from her role effective April 30, as she transitions into a new position as senior district outreach representative for U.S. Rep. Michelle Fischbach, R-Minn.

Louwagie has led the United Way of Southwest Minnesota since May 16, 2022.

The UWSWMN release stated that the board of directors will begin a transition process to support leadership continuity and initiate a search for the organization’s next CEO.

“Meg has been a passionate, steady, and deeply committed leader for United Way of Southwest Minnesota,” said Board Chair Matt Suby. “Her vision, care for community, and unwavering dedication to this organization have significantly strengthened United Way’s presence and impact across southwest Minnesota.”

During her tenure, the release stated that Louwagie led several key initiatives that expanded both the reach and responsiveness of UWSWMN, including the creation of the Disaster Recovery Fund, providing timely and structured support during periods of crisis. She also led the launch of the Bright Beginnings, Brighter Futures Scholarship Program to increase access to educational opportunities; the continued growth of the annual Radioathon, strengthening donor engagement and community connection; and the establishment of the Kindness Investment Program grants, which support local groups through small-scale community-level projects.

“Meg’s leadership has helped position UWSWMN as a more accessible, responsive, and communitydriven organization,” Suby said. “She will be greatly missed by our staff, Board members, donors, volunteers, and partners. We are deeply grateful for the foundation she has built and confident in United Way’s future.”

“It has been a true honor to serve United Way of Southwest Minnesota and to be a part of the UWSWMN legacy,” Louwagie said. “This organization, its mission, and the people behind the work have shaped me in ways that will stay with me forever. Together, we have walked this path–through challenges, growth, and moments of profound impact — and those shared experiences will always be part of who I am. I am deeply grateful for the relationships built, the trust placed in me, and the opportunity to contribute to work that genuinely changes lives and strengthens our communities.”