MUW Announces New Board Members

April 30, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Liz LaRose, APR, President, Monadnock United Way

Liz@muw.org, 603.352.4209

Monadnock United Way Announces New Board Members

Keene, NH – Monadnock United Way is pleased to welcome two new board members: Richard Towne, Career & Technical Education (CTE) Director at Cheshire Career Center at Keene High School, and Kristen Noonan, Community Engagement Manager at Savings Bank of Walpole.

Michelle DellaVita, who is serving her second year as board chair, expressed excitement for the addition of Richard Towne and Kristen Noonan to the board. With the launch of MUW’s refreshed strategic plan, DellaVita emphasized the importance of having Towne’s experiences in high school education and talent development represented on the board as well as Noonan's longstanding contributions and enthusiasm for the community. She looks forward to working closely with them to advance the organization's vision, value, and mission.

Towne has worked in education for over 30 years with experience teaching industrial arts, working in public school administration, and serving as principal at Fall Mountain and Franklin High Schools. He provides a great perspective and insight into the education system and preparing students for life beyond school within careers in technology, industry, and the trades. Of his appointment to the MUW Board Towne said, “I am excited to be able to work on educational initiatives and help create opportunities that support the needs of people in our community”.

Noonan started her career working in education within Keene School District and then transitioned into the world of banking. Her career journey has been marked by versatility and a passion for community engagement. Beyond her professional endeavors, Noonan is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She served on MUW’s Investment Team during the most recent allocations cycle. She is part of the Monadnock Regional School District school board and has served on the board of Keene Day Care Center. She is inspired by the positive changes that MUW is making, which sparked her interest in joining the board. Noonan said, “I am excited to meet new people and to help in any way I can, and this is a new avenue in which to do it!”

Towne and Noonan both attended Keene State College. While not at work Towne enjoys the outdoors in our region and beyond. He also loves traveling with his family on adventures and experiencing new places and cultures, especially regional foods. Noonan resides in Fitzwilliam with her husband and two children. Noonan cherishes family time and embraces the beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities and exploring all that the region has to offer.

About Monadnock United Way

Monadnock United Way is dedicated to improving lives by mobilizing diverse partners and investing in programs and people to create long-lasting, measurable change. MUW was founded in 1952 and currently has more than 2,500 donors, advocates, and volunteers. At Monadnock United Way, we help create opportunities for children, education, and financial stability in every community throughout our region.