By United Way of Central Maryland
United Way of Central Maryland announced the appointment of Tykia Warden as senior vice president and chief development officer. Warden brings more than two decades of proven leadership in fundraising, nonprofit management and community engagement to the organization’s executive team.
A visionary fundraiser and seasoned nonprofit leader, Warden has raised more than $300 million in private and public funding to advance education, economic empowerment, health equity, and social justice. Her career spans higher education, national nonprofits and civic organizations, where she has consistently championed initiatives that uplift underserved communities.
Most recently, Warden served as president and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, where she guided strategic planning, fiscal management and fund development to expand programs supporting residents across seven Maryland municipalities. Under her leadership, the organization renewed its focus on workforce development, small business support and advocacy to strengthen Baltimore’s communities.
Her extensive career also includes executive roles at the University of Maryland, Smithsonian Institution, Johns Hopkins University, Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAACP and the California Community College System. She began her career as a fundraising consultant for Maryland political campaigns and as staff on Capitol Hill for the United States House of Representatives.
“Tykia is an extraordinary leader whose track record of accelerating impact through philanthropy and partnerships will be invaluable to United Way of Central Maryland and people and neighborhoods across our region,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “As we celebrate our 100th year of serving Greater Baltimore, her expertise and passion will help us build on our legacy and fuel our work to break down barriers to basic needs for our neighbors and the neighborhoods they call home.
Warden holds a BA from Indiana University Bloomington, an MA from Bowie State University, and is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). Her volunteer service reflects her deep commitment to leadership and community, including service on nonprofit boards and membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America.
“I am honored to join United Way of Central Maryland at such a pivotal moment in its history,” said Warden. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team, partners and donors to drive meaningful change across Central Maryland and unite others in service and in purpose to help our communities thrive.”
About United Way of Central Maryland
United Way of Central Maryland helps people access basic needs like housing, healthcare, jobs, and education. The nonprofit’s programs advance access to opportunity and improve the lives of our neighbors and the neighborhoods they call home. For 100 years, United Way has addressed ongoing and emerging needs in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, and Howard counties. Learn more at uwcm.org.