Children’s Network of Hillsborough Welcomes Julie Ward to Board of Directors
Children’s Network of Hillsborough (CNHC), Hillsborough County’s Community-Based Care Lead Agency, is pleased to welcome Julie Ward, Community Investment Manager for Tampa Electric Company (TECO), as the newest member of its Board of Directors.
Ward brings extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic planning, community investment, stakeholder engagement, and partnership development, along with a longstanding commitment to strengthening the Tampa Bay community. Her appointment further strengthens the caliber of corporate and community leadership represented on CNHC’s Board and brings a valuable perspective as the organization works to improve outcomes for children and families throughout Hillsborough County.
In her role with TECO, Ward leads the company’s philanthropic giving, community partnerships, and strategic community investment efforts. She has helped reshape TECO’s community investment strategy by aligning charitable giving and partnerships around four key pillars, creating a more focused and measurable approach to community impact. Through this work, she collaborates with nonprofit organizations, civic leaders, and community stakeholders to address local needs and strengthen communities.
“I’m honored to join the Children’s Network of Hillsborough Board of Directors and support an organization so deeply committed to children and families in our community,” said Ward. “I look forward to bringing my experience in community investment and partnership development to the Board and working alongside fellow leaders to help create meaningful, lasting impact for children throughout Hillsborough County.”
Ward joined Tampa Electric in 2007 and has built a diverse career spanning environmental permitting and compliance, operations, generation and resource planning, business strategy, and community investment. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Ward began her career with Siemens Water Technologies before joining Tampa Electric.
Her commitment to service extends beyond her professional role. Ward currently serves on the boards of Meals on Wheels of Tampa Bay, Florida Odyssey of the Mind, and Buccaneer Bay Odyssey of the Mind, supporting organizations focused on education, youth development, and improving the lives of individuals and families throughout the region.
“Julie’s experience, leadership, and commitment to our community make her an incredible addition to our Board of Directors,” said Terri Balliet, CEO of Children’s Network of Hillsborough. “Her understanding of community investment and her experience building meaningful partnerships will bring a valuable perspective to our work as we continue strengthening our community partnerships and creating better outcomes for children and families across Hillsborough County.”
Ward’s addition strengthens CNHC’s relationships within the broader Tampa Bay business and philanthropic community and reflects the organization’s commitment to bringing experienced leaders together to advance its mission. Her appointment also builds on an important connection between Tampa Bay’s corporate and child welfare leadership, with TECO’s CEO serving as Chair of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.
To learn more about Children’s Network of Hillsborough and its work to strengthen families and improve outcomes for children, visit childrensnetworkhillsborough.org.
