MMWC announces the promotion of Samantha Garfinkel to Executive Director

Pittsburgh, Penna. – October 25, 2021

The MMWC Board of Directors elevated Samantha Garfinkel to full Executive Director after her impressive eight-month performance as interim Executive Director.

“Sam has exceeded expectations. Her efficacy is ahead of her peers and she consistently surprises board members and partners with her expertise given the recency of her executive directorship. Sam is an excellent leader who demonstrates the qualities MMWC needs right now,” said the performance review committee.

The Board recognized the successful launch of the Every1online program under Garfinkel’s direction earlier this year and feels confident that she is the right person to leverage several important opportunities for growth of the organization in 2022.

“I’m honored to continue the work that Meta Mesh has begun to bridge the digital divide in Southwest Pennsylvania. Our organization has the unique privilege to put people before profit in our pursuit of increased digital equity for our region. It’s my intention as Executive Director of Meta Mesh to demonstrate that compassion has a place in Internet service provision. By keeping collaboration and distributed leadership at the heart of our work, we can take down the barriers to affordable and accessible Internet that have existed for too long in our communities.” 

Sam Garfinkel joined Meta Mesh in July 2020 as the Development Coordinator and was asked to step into the interim Executive Director role in February 2021 during a period of significant transition for the organization. Since then, Sam has been instrumental in recruiting new members to the Board of Directors, updating and executing the organization’s strategic plan, launching the Every1online pilot program in homes, and reinvigorating partnerships with organizations that support the mission of Meta Mesh. 

By solidifying the executive leadership of the organization, MMWC moves deeper into its current iteration of digital advocacy that is laser-focused on Internet inclusion. Together, MMWC Board members, staff, and volunteers have our sights set on expanding our reach to connect as many people as possible, as equitably as possible. 

Contact:

Sam Garfinkel, Executive Director
[email protected]
744 E. Warrington Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15210
Phone: +1 (412) 223-4253