United Way of the Flint Hills Executive Director Daphne Mertens has announced she will be relocating to the Chicago area, marking the end of her tenure leading one of the region’s most impactful nonprofit organizations. Mertens emphasized that while her move is on the horizon, she remains committed to seeing the current campaign through before stepping away.

Mertens, who has led United Way of the Flint Hills for about two years, said the move is motivated by her husband receiving a job promotion. While she is looking forward to the change, she acknowledged the concern some community members may feel about yet another Emporia nonprofit preparing for a leadership transition.

She urged residents not to worry.

“The board has a solid plan,” Mertens said. The United Way board will begin the s

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