Howard Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Sharon Lifschutz, an experienced nonprofit communications and community relations leader, as Chief External Affairs Officer. In this role, she will focus on strengthening community partnerships and enhancing communication to ensure Howard Center’s work remains responsive to the evolving needs of the people and communities we serve.
Lifschutz brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience in advancement, communications and public affairs. She most recently served as Director of Development and Communications at Lund, where she acted as a strategic advisor to the CEO and led all aspects of philanthropy, communications and external relations. She also served as a primary spokesperson and built strong relationships with legislators, agency leaders and community partners to advance mission and policy priorities.
“I’m truly honored to join Howard Center at this really pivotal time for designated agencies and direct service providers,” Lifschutz said. “Howard Center’s mission and the profound impact it has on individuals and families across our community inspires me deeply and I’m so proud to be part of this team. I look forward to creating greater public awareness for our work and strengthening partnerships all to help ensure that every neighbor has the supports they need and deserve.”
A Vermont Business Magazine Rising Star Award recipient in 2024, Lifschutz holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from University of Vermont and a bachelor’s degree in Jewish studies from Pennsylvania State University. She is active in the community, serving in leadership and advisory roles with several local organizations.
As Chief External Affairs Officer, Lifschutz will oversee development, marketing and communications, community engagement, and government relations. She will work closely with leadership, staff, partners, and supporters to advocate for the organization, build new collaborations, and enhance the public understanding needed to sustain and expand access to critical services for those with developmental disabilities, substance use disorder and those in need of mental health treatment.
“Sharon is a proven and respected strategic leader who understands how to connect mission to community,” said Chief Executive Officer, Sandy McGuire. “Her track record of building strong partnerships, expanding philanthropic support and serving as an effective spokesperson makes her exceptionally well-suited for this role. I’m excited to welcome her to our team and I’m confident she will help Howard Center broaden its reach and deepen its impact across Vermont.”
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ABOUT HOWARD CENTER: Howard Center has a long and rich history as a trusted provider in the community. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we have been providing progressive, compassionate, high-quality care and supports to those in need. Today, we offer an array of exemplary mental health, substance use, and developmental services across the lifespan. As Vermont’s largest social service organization, our 1,300 staff help more than 19,000 people each year in over 60 locations throughout Vermont in collaboration with dozens of community partners. Howard Center’s 24/7/365 crisis service, First Call for Chittenden County, is available to meet the needs of Chittenden County children, adults, and families in crisis by calling 802-488-7777 or call 988. www.howardcenter.org. Help is here. A United Way of Northwest Vermont Funded Agency.