News
November 17, 2023
Longtime WithinReach Leader Sharon Silver Named New CEO
WithinReach is thrilled to announce Chief Strategy Officer Sharon Silver as our new Chief Executive Officer. Sharon is a 20-year veteran of WithinReach and succeeds CEO Kay Knox, who recently stepped down after 24 years with the organization.
As Chief Strategy Officer, Sharon has managed the strategic direction of programs, technology planning, budget and business development, evaluation and staffing capacity. She has led our legislative and advocacy efforts and was the statewide director for Help Me Grow Washington. Sharon has developed and fostered high-level relationships with government and philanthropic partners, resulting in consistent, impact-driven increases in funding.
Since joining WithinReach in 2002, Sharon has also held leadership positions most recently as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Programs. Her leadership, vision and partnership-building resulted in more than $15 million in new funding for both programs and operations infrastructure.
Board President Eric Tatsuno shared his enthusiasm about Sharon’s new role, saying, “Sharon has deep care for WithinReach, strong connections to external partners, a wealth of experience, and strong leadership. She has positioned WithinReach as a trusted partner in the public health and child welfare sectors and is an effective advocate in building better systems for children and families. No one is more prepared to lead WithinReach into the future.”
In announcing Sharon’s appointment to the head of the organization, the Board also applauded outgoing CEO Kay Knox for her work and commitment to improving the health of families in Washington state.
“Kay has been a tireless advocate in realizing WithinReach’s vision,” said Tatsuno. “Her focus has always been on the importance of the work, but I want to recognize the highly impactful, organizational leader that she was – WithinReach wouldn’t be where it is without her incredible leadership.”
“I am humbled and inspired by the opportunity to lead WithinReach. We have significant opportunity and potential for growth in front of us. We are leading the way in creating systems change that improves how families in need receive support. I am passionate when looking to our future, where I see leveraging momentum to grow key partnerships, tribal support and services, technology innovation, and deeper resource connections for families in crisis.”
– Sharon Silver
Currently, Sharon leads our strategic planning effort that will conclude this winter. As we continue to grow our service, her passion for creating and improving systems of support, as well as her commitment to more equitable outcomes, will amplify the voices and needs of those who face systemic discrimination or bias.