ERICIA MOORE OFFICIALLY ASSUMES ROLE AS PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE YMCA OF GREATER KALAMAZOO
Historic First Female Leader in Association’s 160-Year History Begins her First Week
KALAMAZOO, MI — July 29, 2026 —Ericia Moore officially began her tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo. Marking her first day in office earlier this week, Moore has been touring the Maple Y, Portage Y, the Y Youth Development program at Lincoln Elementary, and Early Learning at Northside facilities, connecting directly with staff, leadership, and Y members.
Moore’s official arrival marks a historic milestone for the organization as she becomes the first woman to lead the Association as CEO in its 160-year history. Her appointment follows a comprehensive nationwide search led by the Board of Directors in partnership with Y-USA.
“Walking through the Maple and Portage branches today and meeting the team members and members who give this organization its heart makes this historic moment real,” said Ericia Moore, President and CEO. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves, listen to our community, and build on our promise of access and belonging across the Greater Kalamazoo region. The Y changed my life as a college graduate, and I am deeply honored to step into this role to ensure every individual in our region has that same opportunity to thrive.”
Moore arrives with over 15 years of executive non-profit leadership, most recently serving as Vice President of Operations and Social Responsibility at the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast.
As CEO, Moore will lead the Association through its next chapter of strategic expansion, prioritizing the ambitious "1 in 1 by 31" initiative. The plan aims to ensure that every resident within the YMCA’s service area is within one mile of a YMCA program or touchpoint by 2031.
To facilitate a smooth transition and deep integration into the community, the YMCA is finalizing plans for a series of upcoming "Meet and Greet" receptions. The organization will host dedicated sessions specifically for YMCA members, alongside separate gatherings designed for community partners, friends of the Y, and regional leaders. Dates and location details will be announced in the coming weeks, providing an open opportunity for community members to welcome Moore, share their personal Y stories, and offer their vision for the organization's future.
“This is an exciting and pivotal day for the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo,” said Scott Nykaza, Board Chairman. “Ericia brings visionary leadership, deep operational expertise, and a passion for inclusive community impact. The Board is thrilled to officially welcome her as she begins leading our staff, supporting our members, and guiding our Association into a dynamic future.”
With Moore’s arrival, Interim CEO Rhonda Ludwig officially concludes her transitional leadership role, completing a seamless leadership bridge following the retirement of long-time executive Jim Migliaccio earlier this summer.
About the Y-USA
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits, strengthening communities through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Y’s engage 22 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise but to deliver lasting personal and social change.
About the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo
Celebrating its 160th anniversary, the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo strengthens the community across two main branches and extensive regional outreach, serving more than 30,000 members. The association provides critical youth and early learning initiatives in underserved neighborhoods, and partners deeply with Kalamazoo Public Schools and Portage Public Schools to deliver robust out-of-school programming. Because the Y is committed to being accessible to everyone, one in five members receives financial assistance—ensuring that all families, regardless of background, have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Vicky Kettner
Association Director of Marketing, Community Relations, and Member Engagement
vkettner@kzooymca.org
269.345.9622 ext 147
cell: 269.348.1711
