After two decades of transformational leadership, Bob Romero is retiring as CEO of the Yakima Family YMCA. Over the past 20 years, he led the organization through one of the most significant periods of expansion and impact in its history.
Following a nationwide search, Thomas Russell has been selected as the next CEO of the Yakima Family YMCA, where he’ll build upon the strong foundation and remarkable legacy established by Romero.
“Looking ahead, the YMCA’s future remains bright,” said the Washington State Alliance of YMCAs in a statement on LinkedIn. “Congratulations, Bob on an extraordinary career and a lasting legacy of service. Your impact will be felt for generations to come. As Bob begins his well-earned retirement, we celebrate the impact of his leadership and thank him for two decades of dedication to the YMCA mission and the broader community.” Among his most notable accomplishments was helping bring the YMCA and Yakima Rotary Aquatic Center from concept to reality. Through his leadership, strategic partnerships, grant funding and community support, the facility opened in 2019 and became a cornerstone resource for families throughout the region.
His influence extended far beyond Yakima, Washington. Bob played a key role in establishing a national network of small and mid-Sized YMCAs and served as chair of both the Washington State Alliance of YMCAs and the Pacific Alliance of YMCAs, helping elevate the voice and visibility of community-focused YMCAs across the country.
