The United Way of Douglas County has hired Erika Dvorske of Kansas City, Kan., as its new president and CEO, the agency announced this morning.

Dvorske, the director of community investment for United Way of Wyandotte County, will start work in Douglas County on Jan. 14. She will replace Jo Bryant, who led United Way of Douglas County from 1981 to 1986 and returned to the post in 1998. Bryant will continue to work as a consultant with the organization until her retirement in March.

“We will miss Jo, but we are pleased to be able to hire someone with Erika’s experience and enthusiasm,” said Ann Gardner, chairman of the United Way board of directors. “Her previous work with United Way will give her a real head start in Douglas County.”

Dvorske has worked in various capacities at United Way of Wyandotte County since 2001. She entered United Way work after spending five years in education and administration at Kansas University. While working for United Way, Dvorske has worked in organizational development and management. Her job also has included working with many agencies in the Kansas City area to help them develop effective program outcomes and provide accountability to the community.

“I am thrilled to be joining United Way of Douglas County,” Dvorske said. “Nonprofits are doing great work in Douglas County, and there is a great opportunity in that momentum. I look forward to building strong relationships in a community that is dear to me.”

United Way of Douglas County raised $1.6 million last year to help support 27 local social service agencies. The organization also oversees the Roger Hill Volunteer Center and the United Way Center for Human Services.

Dvorske said she will be relocating to Lawrence with her husband, John, and two children, Nicholas and Renee.