YWCA Greenwich announced this week the election of new board leaders and members. Changes in leadership include Krissy Schmitz as Vice Chair and Angela Chambers as Chair of the Governance Committee.
Angela Chambers
Additionally, six new Directors were elected to terms beginning July 1. The new Directors are Ophelia Ceradini, Vanessa Darvish, Chase Haynes English, Alejandra Espinosa, Cecilia Lieberman, and Elgida Volpicelli.
Krissy Schmitz
Schmitz, who joined the Board of Directors in 2024, previously co-chaired YWCA Greenwich’s Walk the Walk & 5K Run Against Domestic Violence. Chambers, who also joined the Board of Directors in 2024, previously co-chaired YWCA Greenwich’s The Fall Party. The rest of the Executive Committee is excited to welcome them: Stephanie Kruse, Board Chair; Dawn Isreal, Treasurer; Felice Zwas, MD, Secretary; Cynthia J. Leaman, Vice Chair, Development; Heather Sarhbeck, Vice Chair, Programs; and Louisa Winthrop, Vice Chair, Harmony Project.
“These new Board Members are all beacons within the Greenwich community. Many are leaders in the medical, financial, business, and philanthropic fields, and we are grateful to have these accomplished women dedicate their time and talents to the mission and vital programs of YWCA Greenwich,” said CEO Mary Lee Kiernan.
Stephanie Kruse, Board Chair, added, “As we work to serve the community, from children’s education, sports and after school programs to aiding victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, the YWCA Board is fortunate to add such a talented and skilled group of leaders. I’m honored to work in concert with them to support and strengthen YWCA Greenwich to its fullest potential at such an exciting time of growth and expansion for the organization.”
Founded in 1919, YWCA Greenwich is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. YWCA Greenwich provides programs for people of all ages with initiatives that include preschool and after school programs, aquatics programs, youth athletics, health and fitness programs and seminars focusing on racial justice and women’s empowerment. Additionally, YWCA Greenwich is the only provider of both domestic and sexual violence services in Greenwich, with staff who are licensed to provide crisis intervention, counseling, shelter, and victim advocacy. These services are free.