United Way is pleased to announce Thomas E. Goode, President of the Richmond Market for Bank of America, as the 2008 United Way Campaign Chair.
Bank of America is one of the world's largest financial institutions with more than 59 million customers in the United States alone. As Richmond Market President, Tom provides business, civic and philanthropic leadership for Bank of America throughout the greater Richmond region. He also serves as Senior Vice President within Bank of America’s Premier Banking and Investments Division.
Tom began his career in 1979 as a trainee with First Merchant’s Bank, a predecessor of Bank of America. In 2006, he was promoted to his current role as the Richmond Market President. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Hampden-Sydney College.
An active volunteer throughout his career, Tom currently serves or has served on the boards of United Way, the Chamber Business Council, Venture Richmond, Leadership Metro Richmond, the Virginia Economic Education Institute, and the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges. He and his wife Missy live in Richmond and a have a son, Joe and a daughter, Emmy.
UW: What motivated you to take on the role of chairing United Way’s campaign?
TG: I have always admired the manner in which United Way conducts its mission and the role it plays in improving our community. It’s a great honor to lead the upcoming United Way campaign. I feel the best way an individual or corporation can support our community is through involvement with United Way.
UW: What is your perspective on corporate philanthropy and service in the greater Richmond region?
TG: Our region is fortunate to have business leaders who understand the need for their companies to lead the way in philanthropic giving. We realize that in the end, our businesses, employees and their families all benefit from a strong community so we all must do our part to help build that strong community. Again, United Way leads this effort.
UW: What do you believe are the greatest challenges facing our region and how do you see United Way helping to create solutions?
TG: I believe the areas of United Way’s focus – preparing children for the future, preventing and ending homelessness, and supporting older adults – are the greatest challenges facing our region. United Way has its finger on the pulse of the region to know that these areas are the most critical, and they are presenting viable solutions to the challenges.
There are certainly economic challenges every year, and this year is no different. But the needs in our community continue to grow and so must the resources generated to address our local challenges.
UW: What are your goals for this year’s campaign?
TG: This campaign really is a regional effort and it takes a lot of individuals working together. I first want to build a great team that works well together because a strong team is key to our success. In addition to building on past successes, I plan to explore new, creative strategies to bring in greater resources to address the needs in our community.