Arlington, VA – Columbia Pike Partnership, a coalition of businesses, residents, property owners, and the Arlington County Government dedicated to serving the 3.5-mile-long stretch of Columbia Pike, is excited to introduce Andrew Schneider as the new Executive Director.
The much-anticipated leadership transition comes on the heels of Kim Klingler’s announcement of her candidacy for Arlington County Commissioner of Revenue in late 2022. Andrew Schneider, a seasoned non-profit and community leader and longtime Arlington resident, stands out as the right candidate to succeed in the role. He is passionate about the Pike community and ready to assume the position of Executive Director on December 6, 2023.
Kim Klingler joined Columbia Pike Partnership (CPP) in March 2019, succeeding Cecilia Cassidy. Through Kim’s efforts, the partnership experienced growth in funding, professionalism, and outreach. Kim led the transition from CPRO to the Columbia Pike Partnership. Her understanding of the Pike community enabled the team to expand its communications in several languages, leading to increased visibility of the organization and new partnerships in Arlington and the greater DMV region.
“I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to showcase Columbia Pike, The World in a Zip Code. I am excited to see that work carry on and expand under Andrew’s leadership, as Columbia Pike Partnership continues to advocate and support the diverse residents and businesses that call Columbia Pike home,” Kim Klingler said.
With a proven track record of leadership and transformative change, Andrew Schneider brings a wealth of experience in growing organizations and fostering impactful change. As the former Executive Director of Arlington Thrive, Schneider led the organization from a volunteer-driven non-profit to a technology-forward, professionalized entity with a staff of 20, achieving remarkable growth in under seven years. In addition to being part of Leadership Arlington’s 40 under 40 inaugural class, Schneider has extensive experience working in the public policy and advocacy arena.
“We are thrilled to welcome Andrew Schneider to lead the Columbia Pike Partnership into its next phase of growth and community impact,” said Diana Nakarmi, Chair of the Columbia Pike Partnership Board of Directors. “His proven ability to build teams, serve diverse constituencies, drive fundraising efforts, and create collaborative partnerships aligns seamlessly with our organization’s mission. We are confident that Andrew’s visionary leadership will propel the Columbia Pike Partnership to new heights.”
Notably, Schneider’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and addressing the needs of a diverse demographic has been a hallmark of his distinguished career. At Arlington Thrive, Schneider championed initiatives that expanded access to assistance for individuals and families from various backgrounds, demonstrating a deep understanding of the needs within the community. His leadership in co-founding and co-chairing the Arlington Interfaith Network (AIN) exemplifies his dedication to creating collaboration among safety net partners and faith community members. Schneider’s work at the heart of community service reflects his belief in the importance of equity and inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of organizational growth and impact extend equitably to all community members.
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of Executive Director at the Columbia Pike Partnership and to follow Kim’s significant legacy. Kim’s nearly five years of dedicated, energetic and successful leadership will be an inspiring model for me in the days ahead. I look forward to continuing Kim’s efforts, and joining an outstanding and experienced team and committed Board in advancing CPP’s mission to foster a vibrant, safe, connected, and diverse Columbia Pike community. With gratitude for the past and enthusiasm for the future, I am eager to get to work with the residents, businesses, and other key partners to realize a vibrant and thriving Columbia Pike,” said Andrew Schneider.
The Columbia Pike Partnership is confident that Schneider’s commitment to diversity and inclusion will play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of serving and uniting a broad and varied constituency. His expertise in fundraising, partnership building, and strategic planning will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Columbia Pike Partnership.