Coalition's board adds United Way president

The Early Learning group strengthens its chances for funding.

By LISA BUIE, Times Staff Writer
Published October 14, 2007

The head of the funding agency that turned down the Pasco Hernando Early Learning Coalition's request for money has been named to its board.

Susan Arnett, 44, president of the United Way of Pasco County, received word from Gov. Charlie Crist's office Thursday that she had been appointed to the board.

She said she applied at the request of State Sen. Mike Fasano.

"I didn't expect anything to come of it," she said.

Arnett has been president of the Pasco County United Way since 2000.

Her term begins immediately and ends in 2011. She replaces former Hernando School Board member John Druzbik, who resigned.

Arnett's appointment comes just a few weeks after her agency's board denied the coalition's appeal after it was initially rejected for a donation.

The coalition must raise money to match federal grants that pay for its child care program for the working poor.

Arnett said she hoped the coalition understood that her board was the group that turned down the coalition, not her.

"I'm just here to make sure the request process happens," she said.

Arnett said that in denying the coalition's appeal, the board "thought we left the door open to build bridges."

"That's what the goal still is," she said, adding that she hopes her presence will help smooth relations between Pasco groups and the coalition.

Arnett's appointment means former coalition member and vocal critic Dave Marshall will not have a spot on the board.

Lisa Buie can be reached at buie@sptimes.com or (813) 909-4604.

[Last modified October 13, 2007, 22:02:42]