Mar. 2—A leader in the local nonprofit community — known widely for her enthusiasm for helping others, boundless energy and warm smile — will be retiring at the end of June.

"We've put together a wonderful team here, and it's time to pass the torch and see what they can do," said Sharon Rodgers, who has served as the United Way of Aiken County's president and chief professional officer since 2007.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at the United Way's new headquarters on Morgan Street in Aiken, scheduled for April, will be the culmination of her "glorious" tenure with the organization, Rodgers added.

Ellen Luton, director of resource development for the United Way, will succeed Rodgers.

"Sharon has been an amazing partner in working with our agencies (that receive United Way funding) to provide care in so many aspects of our city," said Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon. "We certainly owe her a debt of gratitude for all the time she has put in to make sure that those in need get a hand up."

Under Rodgers' leadership, the United Way set a fundraising campaign record of $3,033,634 in 2016 after exceeding $3 million for the first time in 2012. The total for that year was $3,005,584.

In addition, the United Way finalized plans last year to acquire, renovate and move from Barnwell Avenue to the former home of Aiken Senior Life Services, which will provide more office space.

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce honored Rodgers as its Woman of the Year in 2020.

"Sharon has been an integral part of the United Way's growth in the CSRA," said Aiken County Council Vice Chairman Andrew Siders, a former United Way board chair who still is involved with the nonprofit. "Her work ethic and personality are second to none. She will be sorely missed."

Susie Ferrara, the United Way's 2022-2023 board chair, also praised Rodgers for her efforts.

"She, in my vision, is a true servant leader," Ferrara said. "She's there for her board, she's there for her staff and she's there for her agencies. And her commitment is tireless. She goes the extra mile to take care of the community, and that's something that you don't see every day."

A longtime Aiken resident, Rodgers plans to remain here following her retirement.

"I'll still be doing a lot," she said. "I haven't figured everything out yet. But I'm in the Rotary Club (of Aiken), and I'm involved in my church (First Presbyterian in Aiken). I intend to stay busy. And I'll probably also be enjoying some beach activities."

In addition, Rodgers expressed her confidence in Luton as her successor.

"She's ready to take the helm," Rodgers said. "She's got the experience and the leadership qualities that are necessary to move this organization forward."

Luton has worked for the United Way since 2014. Before becoming the director of resource development, she was the director of marketing and communications.

Prior to joining the United Way's staff, Luton served in a variety of volunteer positions with the organization.

"I am excited to follow in the footsteps of my mentor, Sharon Rodgers," Luton said. "She has really laid out a great blueprint for success for the United Way. I am eager to serve the community and build on that success."

Ferrara described Luton as the ideal person to replace Rodgers and someone who is capable of taking the United Way to the next level.

"She has been basically brought up through the ranks of the organization," Ferrara said. "She and the staff work extremely well together, and she has a vision for the future. She has some great ideas."

Said Siders: "Ellen has big shoes to fill, but I know she will work hard to make a difference."