The YMCA of Okanagan has named their new CEO to replace Sharon Peterson who is retiring from the role after 27 years of leadership.
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Allyson Graf, who has been employed by the YMCA of Okanagan since 1998 and most recently as Vice President, Community and Strategic Initiatives, will be the new President and CEO.
Steven Pavelich, YMCA Board Chair, said that Ally brings an entrepreneurial mindset and collaborative leadership style to her new role.
“We feel confident that Allyson is the right leader to guide our YMCA as we recover from the pandemic and develop new opportunities in expanded regions,” says Pavelich. “With a 24-year history at the Y, Ally has a deep understanding of our mission and has extensive experiences that have made her a passionate champion for our organization and the communities we serve.”
Allyson holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Simon Fraser University, is a graduate of the YMCA of USA CEO Preparatory Institute and is currently completing a certificate in Executive Leadership from the Sauder School of Business UBC.
During her tenure at the YMCA, Allyson developed several new partnerships and initiated new programs to serve vulnerable populations throughout the Okanagan region. She has represented the YMCA on a number of community councils and committees addressing a variety of social issues such as unemployment, poverty, and youth mental health and has served as a board director with Big Brothers, Big Sisters.
“I have been fortunate to have had a great mentor in Sharon throughout my career at the YMCA. Her vision and leadership has positioned our YMCA to be the trusted, relevant charity it is today. I look forward to working in partnership with our talented staff and volunteers to help our community members belong, grow and thrive.”