Kathy Fielding Named First Woman CEO of the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA announced today that Kathy Fielding will serve as its first woman CEO effective May 4, 2020. She will succeed Howard Schultz who has served as President and CEO for 13 years and will retire at the end of April, as previously announced.
After interviewing over 50 applicants, Fielding was unanimously approved by the Y Board. She currently serves as Vice President of Membership, Programs, and Marketing at the NSYMCA, a position she has held since 2017, and has over 8 years of experience rising through the ranks at the Y.
"We are privileged to welcome Kathy Fielding as the first woman CEO of the North Suburban YMCA," said Cathy Gregory, Chair of the Board of Directors of the North Suburban YMCA. "Given her dedication, strong leadership, outstanding track record, and commitment to our business and community, Kathy is an ideal choice to lead the Y into the future."
An NSYMCA employee since 2011, Kathy Fielding began her Y career as a front desk customer service representative. Fielding's accomplishments extend from spearheading the "Two Seconds Too Long" drowning prevention program for children, to the Enhance®Fitness arthritis management class and Diabetes Prevention Program for adults, to growing summer camp program participation by almost 4000 units over the previous year.
"I am so grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization that has such a meaningful impact on the lives of those in our community, and honored to lead our extraordinary Y as CEO," said Fielding, who is married with three children. "As a longstanding member and employee of the NSYMCA, I know how crucial the Y's vitality, value, and welcoming environment are to everyone we serve. I look forward to continuing to work closely with our exceptional leadership team and our entire board of directors as we continue our mission of ensuring that our community has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive."
Fielding received a Bachelor of Science degree at Bradley University and holds a master's degree in education from Loyola University, Chicago.
About the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.