University District Development Association CEO Lars Gilberts plans to step down by the end of the month to become assistant vice president of community development and impact at Numerica Credit Union.

A Numerica press release states Gilberts will “drive the credit union’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts as it pertains to member outreach and access” in the new role.

Gilberts, a 2019 Journal of Business Rising Star who has led the University District for four years, says in a letter to colleagues that he the district’s executive committee is working closely to ensure a smooth transition. He also says his new role will enable him to be even more active in the region, including work with the U District.

Upon taking the U District job in 2017, Gilberts returned to the Spokane area, where he has spent a portion of his childhood, from Florida. In the Sunshine State, he worked as the statewide director of the United Way’s ALICE program, which helps people build financial stability.

The University District Development Association is expected to formalize its search for Gilbert’s replacement soon. Located just east of downtown Spokane, the district is bounded by Sinto Avenue to the north, Hogan Street to the east, Fifth Avenue to the south, and Bernard Street to the west. Gonzaga University, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane, the University of Washington-Gonzaga University Regional Health Partnership, and outposts for other schools, including Eastern Washington University, are located within the district’s boundaries.