The United Way of Ellis County board of directors announced Tuesday the promotion of Erica Berges to executive director of the organization.

Berges has been the administrative assistant for United Way of Ellis County for the past five years. She is a Fort Hays State University graduate and recently graduated from the Leadership Hays program.

Berges lives in Hays with her husband, Michael, and three boys — Jackson, Noah and Isaac.

“We’re delighted to have Erica take on the executive director role,” said Kara Denton, board president. “As a board, we are confident that her years of experience will make the transition seamless. Keeping continuity in leadership, the United Way of Ellis County is positioned well to have a very positive outcome with this year’s campaign.”

Berges replaces Sherry Dryden, who joined the American Red Cross as regional executive director in September.

“It is an honor to be with the United Way in a different capacity,” Berges said. “I am excited to continue moving the United Way forward in our commitment to the community.”

United Way of Ellis County helps fund 17 partner agencies with all money raised staying in Ellis County. The organization is currently halfway into its 2019 “Give Where You Live” Campaign.

“The organization encourages you to consider giving as a part of your employer’s campaign or individually at www.liveunited.us,” Denton said.

The search for the United Way’s next administrative assistant has begun. The job application can be found at www.liveunited.us.