The University District announces Lars Gilberts as new executive director

SPOKANE, Wash., March 23, 2017—After a competitive search process, The University District board of directors is pleased to announce Lars Gilberts as the University District’s new executive director effective April 28.

A native of the Inland Northwest, Lars currently serves as the statewide director for Florida’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed) initiative based out of United Way of Broward County. In this position, Lars leads Florida’s 32 United Ways in engaging their business, government and community partners in new ways to better support vulnerable populations. Utilizing the ALICE Report and research data, Lars and his team successfully launched multiple statewide efforts that helped frame, promote and implement a ground-breaking state appropriation that brought millions of dollars in direct economic benefit to Florida, its residents and local governments.

Prior to joining United Way, Lars was the director of financial stability at Branches, Inc., in Miami, Florida where he developed and managed the United Way Center for Financial Stability along with several asset building initiatives including an entrepreneurship program, a countywide free tax consortium and a family transportation/auto loan program. At Branches, Lars coordinated 20+ staff, 70+ partners and multiple funders across a tri-county region. Lars also led statewide and national studies to identify community challenges, promote best practices and leverage solutions to build equitable growth. He has served on numerous boards and committees for local economic development initiatives, state financial stability efforts, and campus-based student leadership development; as well as on zoning and transportation commissions.

Karl Otterstrom, director of planning for Spokane Transit Authority and chair of the University District board of directors says the board is thrilled to welcome Lars to the organization. “He has proven experience in leading a diverse set of stakeholders toward a common goal. This experience will be a key asset in implementing the vision of the University District that supports a vibrant and sustainable future.”

Added Kim Pearman-Gillman, partner, McKinstry and vice chair of the University District and chair of the University District search committee, “We were fortunate to have a great candidate pool for this important leadership role. The committee selected Lars for his many and varied skills and proven track record of success in building and operating complex organizations and creating an ecosystem of aligned and collaborative interests. We are happy to welcome Lars home and feel the wide range of experience he has gained over his career will serve the University District and our community for years to come.”

Lars’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions for businesses and families alike has led to numerous regional and national research opportunities and speaking invitations. His commitment to people-centered leadership, vibrant community development, and effective fundraising have resulted in greater growth, prosperity and health for the cities and constituents he has served.

“I am excited to have been selected to lead the University District. This is an opportunity for me to bring my professional passions and skills back to the community I love. I am deeply grateful to the University District search committee and board of directors for their confidence in me. It will be an honor to serve the Spokane community in this role,” Gilberts says. “I look forward to working alongside the University District’s diverse partners, stakeholders and neighbors to fulfill the University District’s vision and mission to create exciting and sustainable opportunities for all.”

Lars completed a BBA in Marketing at the University of Texas Pan American, Edinburg TX as well as an MBA in Management from Barry University, Miami Shores, FL.

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The University District offers opportunities to address economic development issues, smart urban growth, environmental restoration, transportation improvements and housing needs. Connecting the core strengths of the educational institutions with regional economic drivers, the University District provides an urban laboratory for the creation of new knowledge and opportunities for community-engaged research that builds economic value and quality of life. Find out more at www.spokaneudistrict.org.