The Glacial Community YMCA in Wisconsin announced Jess Mieling has been named the next CEO of the Y, effective October 12, 2026. The Y’s Board of Directors selected Mieling following a comprehensive national search that brought forward a pool of 56 applicants.
Mieling will succeed Jon Lange, who will retire at the end of October following 42 years of professional service with the YMCA, including 11 years as CEO of the association.
Mieling brings 20 years of experience in YMCA leadership to the role. She currently serves as COO of the Y, where her leadership has strengthened both branches, elevated service delivery across the association, and deepened the Y’s ties to the communities it serves — work that has positioned the Glacial Community YMCA for the bold next chapter she’ll lead as CEO.
“Our national search brought forward an impressive group of candidates, but Jess stood out among the finalists,” said Richard Keddington, the Y’s board chair, in a press release. “Her energy and vision for the Glacial Community YMCA are exactly what we were looking for in a leader. With Jess’ successful leadership experience at multiple YMCAs, we are confident that the Glacial Community YMCA is in excellent hands for years to come.”
As CEO, Mieling will provide leadership for the Glacial Community YMCA, serving more than 22,000 members through its two branches: the Roehl Family YMCA in Oconomowoc and the Schultz Family YMCA in Watertown.
She’ll lead the organization as it continues to provide programs and services that nurture the whole person — spirit, mind and body — guided by the Y’s mission and inspired by the needs of the communities served.
“I’m deeply honored to step into this role and lead an organization that has meant so much to me and to the communities we serve,” said Mieling. “My vision for the Glacial Community YMCA is rooted in the same Christian mission and values that have always defined who we are — because when we live those values out loud, everything else follows. I’m excited to build on the momentum we’ve created together, to grow our reach and deepen our impact, and to keep showing up as a committed partner in solving our community’s greatest challenges together.”
