Leading the Way

Wednesday, May 8
5:00- 7:30 pm
Reading Liederkranz
143 Spook Lane
Reading, PA 19606

Connect and communicate with local leaders in a speed dating type event at the Reading Liederkranz. Following the conversations, all will be invited continue to connect while enjoying refreshments and beverages.

Learn the “why” from the following United Way volunteers:

• Caitlin Banta- President and CEO, Brentwood Industries, Inc.
  Caitlin Banta is the president and CEO of Brentwood Industries, a plastics processor serving customers in the U.S. and globally. Caitlin began her career at Brentwood Industries in 2007 as a summer intern and has since held various positions within the company, most recently serving as executive vice president. With a degree in mechanical engineering from Tufts University, Banta has a deep understanding of the business and its operations. She is passionate about advancing sustainability initiatives at Brentwood and is currently leading the integration of a recent acquisition, Enexio Water Technologies, in Germany as part of the company's "One Brentwood" initiative. Banta is committed to driving growth, delivering exceptional products and services, and upholding the values that define Brentwood Industries.
  
  
• Walter Banta- Vice President of Operations, Brentwood Industries, Inc.
  Walter Banta is an experienced operations professional with a background in market development and marketing management. Walter has held various positions at Brentwood Industries, including Marketing Manager, Director of Market Development, and Senior Director of Market Development, where he was responsible for commercial and product line strategies, business development, and engineering processes. Most recently, Walter served as Vice President of Operations, overseeing operational strategies and departmental oversight for multiple manufacturing sites. Walter holds a degree in Biology and Mathematics from the University of Scranton and pursued Electro-Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University.
  
  
• Kim Hippert-Eversgerd- Vice President, Fulton Bank
  Kim Hippert-Eversgerd brings over 24 years of banking industry experience to her role as Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager at Fulton Financial Corporation. Prior to joining Fulton Financial Corporation in 2016, she held the same position at Susquehanna Bank. Kim has also held various roles at National Penn, including Senior Vice President/Relationship Manager and Director of Sales. Additionally, Kim has been a dedicated United Way volunteer for many years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Management/Business from Gettysburg College, where she also participated in a study abroad program in Southern France focusing on International Business and French.
  
  
• Brad Stehenson- CEO, New Castle Lawn & Landscape Inc.
  Brad Stephenson, a seasoned leader in the green industry with over 30 years of experience, began his career shearing Christmas trees at age 14. Rising from a laborer to co-owner and CEO of New Castle Lawn & Landscape, Brad is committed to team building and personal growth. Recognized for his leadership, he received the 2023 Impact Award from Vistage and led New Castle to be named one of the "Best Places to Work for in PA." Actively involved in philanthropy, Brad serves on the regional boards of the Caron Foundation and the John Paul II Center for Special Learning, driven by his mission to make a difference personally and professionally.