Madison Area YMCA board of directors chair Michael Griffin announced president and CEO Diane Mann plans to retire after a new CEO is selected later this year.
“We’re extraordinarily grateful to Diane for her leadership and service over the last 16 years, a tenure that has been characterized by thoughtful business management balanced with a steadfast commitment to our mission,” said Griffin in a press release.
The YMCA’s board of directors has seated a search and selection committee that will work with Y-USA on a search for candidates from both YMCAs and externally as well. Griffin said the Y will be seeking a future CEO who will both sustain their growth and build on their successes to advance the Y’s mission of community service.
When Mann arrived at the Madison Area YMCA in June 2010, she brought with her a depth of expertise in philanthropy, strategic planning and operations management gained from more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience. That knowledge quickly went to work for the Madison area community.
A Successful Tenure
During Mann’s tenure as president and CEO, she led and executed a $20 million expansion of the Y’s Family Center, adding 28,865 square feet upon its completion in 2021. A significant part of the project was financed through the generosity of hundreds of donors who contributed to a successful $10 million capital campaign.
The transformed facility includes state-of-the-art fitness centers, a new gymnasium and an expansive eight-lane pool. These enhancements — along with the Madison Area YMCA’s reputation for delivering superior quality programming — have resulted in record-breaking membership and program participation. Today, the Madison Area YMCA is 15,734 members strong.
Shortly after the expansion, Mann successfully oversaw a $1.16 million capital expansion of the Y’s renowned F.M. Kirby Children’s Center. The project opened two new classrooms in September 2024 to keep pace with the growing demand for early childhood education and support for working families. Today, F.M. Kirby boasts a four-star rating from Grow NJ Kids and is one of the largest licensed early childhood education centers in the state.
“It has been my honor over the past 15 years to lead this remarkable organization of talented, dedicated staff and volunteers who share a passion for serving the Madison community,” said Mann. “Thanks to our exceptional team of Board members, staff, donors and volunteers, I have no doubt the Madison Area YMCA will continue to advance our mission.”
Looking Ahead
Under her leadership, the Y launched no-cost chronic disease programs that continue to grow in demand, especially among individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. In 2014, the Y also became the manager of mental health services, including Project Community Pride — a counseling service provided at no cost to local school-age children, teens and their families. In the past five years, the Y has also expanded programs for youth with special needs, offering a vital support system for families and meaningful volunteer opportunities for teens.
Upon her retirement, Mann also leaves a legacy of commitment to the safety and well-being of every child who participates in Y programs. This year, the Madison Area YMCA earned accreditation from Praesidium — the leader in child abuse risk management — and the American Camp Association, the leading authority in camp safety and quality.
As the Madison Area YMCA looks to the future, its board of directors expresses deep gratitude to Mann for her exceptional leadership and lasting contributions.
“As we embark on this transition, the Madison Area YMCA stands stronger than ever —energized for the future and committed to advancing its mission in bold and inspiring ways,” said Griffin.
