Sean Garrett

Sean Garrett is the President and CEO of the United Way of Metro Chicago, a position he has held since September 2018. His leadership focuses on long-term regional recovery efforts, emphasizing collaboration with donors, community leaders, and residents to address essential needs such as food, shelter, and safety in Chicago neighborhoods. Under his guidance, the organization has launched significant initiatives, including the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund, which raised $35 million to support 400 nonprofits during the pandemic.12

Garrett's career with United Way spans over 15 years, beginning as a community fellow at United Way of Dane County in Wisconsin. He has held various roles within the United Way system, including executive director of United Way of Central Carolinas and positions at United Way Worldwide. His notable achievements include securing substantial corporate gifts, such as a $10 million donation from BMO Harris and $25 million from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, marking significant milestones in the organization's fundraising history.23

He is an alumnus of Georgetown University and holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Throughout his career, Garrett has been recognized with several awards, including being named one of Charlotte Business Journal's "40 Under 40" and "Most Admired CEO" in 2018.34 His commitment to community engagement and transformation drives his work at United Way, where he aims to create equitable opportunities for all residents in the Chicago area.124