In an exclusive interview with Eyewitness News, McIntyre said she’s ready to refocus the United Way.

McIntyre admitted it’s been a tough year. “We hope the next year is going to be a lot better. How much better is to be determined by the community. We all need to focus on the community care fund,” she said.

McIntyre said her first priority is to restore the fund that goes directly to the 97 charitable agencies that the organization supports. She stressed that is the key to turning things around.

McIntyre called it a privilege to be asked to serve the community.

“I would never have taken the job if I didn’t think we could make a difference,” she said. McIntyre will now transition from her current position as CEO of the YWCA Central Carolinas, and fully assume her role at the United Way Wednesday.

The United Way’s former CEO, Gloria Pace King was let go following public outrage over her million-dollar compensation package last August.