After a nationwide search resulting in 158 applicants, the Akron Area YMCA has named its next CEO, Tiffany McGee. McGee will succeed Jill Kolesar, who served as CEO for the past 10 years and is retiring after a 35-year career with the Y.
McGee comes to Akron after serving as the VP of branch operations for the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, bringing more than 20 years of progressive leadership experience within the YMCA movement. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from Franklin University and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Springfield College.
“So grateful for this opportunity,” said McGee in a statement on social media. “Looking forward to serving the Akron Area community.”
McGee will begin her duties at the Akron Area YMCA on June 1, 2026. The national search was facilitated by YMCA of the USA and the Ohio Alliance of YMCAs.
McGee is known for her lively personality, positive energy and exceptional ability to build —and rebuild — critical relationships. Moreover, she has a proven record in turnaround management, consistently driving organizational growth, operational stability and mission-centered impact.
“We’re very thrilled to welcome Tiffany as our new CEO to our YMCA family,” said Russell Holmes, the Y’s board chair, in a statement. “Her passion for community, experience and dedication to strengthening our organization will inspire positive changes for years to come.”
Further Information
McGee began her YMCA career in 2006 as a program director with the YMCA of Western Stark County. She went on to serve in key leadership roles, including executive director with the YMCA of Greater Dayton, CEO of the Tuscarawas County YMCA and SVP of branch operations for the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, where she oversees 11 branches and leads large-scale operational initiatives across the association.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, McGee is deeply rooted in family and community. She’s the proud mother of three children and grandmother of two. Her oldest daughter Taylor resides in Kettering, Ohio, with her husband and their two children. McGee’s son Cameron serves on active duty in the United States Air Force and is currently stationed in Minot, North Dakota. Also, her youngest, Londyn, lives at home alongside Batman, the family cat.
McGee is passionate about music and sings regularly with her church praise team, choir and occasionally with her band The Groove. She has served in youth ministry for many years, teaching vacation Bible school and children’s church.
A former triathlete and fitness competitor, she believes strongly in staying active and modeling a healthy lifestyle. Above all, she cherishes time spent with her family.
