The YMCA of the East Valley has named Brandi Collato its new chief executive officer, effective June 24, 2024. Selected by the Board of Directors following a six-month search, Collato will succeed Darwin Barnett, who is retiring after leading the organization for the past 12 years.
“During our national search for a new CEO, we received applicants nationwide and locally,” said Kailey Hatfield-Odero, the board chair. “We’re very excited to have Brandi join our Y and be part of this community. Her YMCA upbringing, skills, and ability to build community partnerships will help strengthen our communities. I would also like to thank my fellow search committee members — Bill Hardy (chair), Peter Davis, Janet Greenfield and Tyler Miner – as well as all the board of directors, Y-USA, volunteers and staff that participated in this process.”
Collato is the first woman to lead the YMCA of the East Valley in its 137-year history. In her new role, she will drive the organization’s strategic plan, program and organizational development, membership, help bridge community needs, and ensure that the YMCA continues as a cornerstone of this community.
“It is an honor and a privilege to lead and serve the YMCA of the East Valley into this new chapter,” shared Collato. “The Y was an integral part of my upbringing, giving me the opportunity to personally experience the miracles that happen in the lives of people when Y staff come together with dedicated volunteers and community members to strengthen life-changing Y programs.”
Collato was a Division I basketball player at the University of San Diego, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Counseling. She comes to the YMCA of the East Valley with 17 years of professional experience and dedication to the YMCA movement. Most recently, Collato comes from the YMCA of Greater Long Beach, a $45 million association where she has served for the past decade, currently as their chief operating officer overseeing eight branches delivering comprehensive programming around health and wellness, childcare, and preschool, comprehensive aquatics programming, outdoor education, and resident camping.
Born and raised in San Diego, California, prior to Long Beach, Collato began her YMCA professional career with the YMCA of San Diego County serving in many capacities. Beginning as a youth sports director in an inner-city YMCA Collato grew through various progressive positions in San Diego for seven years.
“Southern California is home for me, and I look forward to settling into this great community and partnering together to further strengthen our Y programs and services in support of our communities,” Collato said.
Collato loves sports, the ocean, participating in triathlons, is a proud aunt of three young nieces and values spending time with family above all else.
